GlampOut Resorts provides a distinctive glamping experience in Sutton, less than 15 miles from Duck, West Virginia. This mountainous region sits at approximately 880 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and significantly cooler nights even in peak season. Visitors can expect dense Appalachian forest surroundings with proximity to both the Elk River and nearby Summersville Lake.
What to do
Hiking at Bulltown Campground: Located near Burnsville Lake, trails offer moderate terrain through mixed hardwood forest. "We stayed right next to lake. Good clean bathroom and campground. Hosts do great job. Loop C did have a few visits from a skunk but he didnt bother anyone," notes Malena B. about Bulltown Campground.
Explore Civil War history: The Bulltown Historic Area features preserved Civil War battle sites with interpretive markers. According to one camper, "There's a historical area that's really neat and a country store with things you may have forgotten - the ice cream and pizza are great too!"
Disc golf at Mountain Lake: Mountain Lake Campground has an on-site course perfect for beginners and experienced players. "This place is huge! There is so much to see and do... frisbee golf, miniature golf, a beach, lake access and other things I'm sure I'm not aware of," says Fred J. about Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Whitewater rafting: Book guided experiences through local outfitters at Adventures on the Gorge. "The white water rafting was incredible and the staff all around was FANTASTIC," reports Ian S. from his experience at the campground.
What campers like
Clear water at Summersville Lake: The water quality stands out to most visitors. "Amazing area of WV. Great spot to start from to get anywhere. Clean warm water, busy boating weekend, quiet during the week," states Fred R. about his July visit to Mountain Lake Campground.
Winter cabin options: Elk River Hotel and Café offers heated options for off-season visits. "The tents were spacious and clean, and the heater was appreciated during a cold, damp October stay," according to a reviewer.
Kid-friendly amenities: Multiple playgrounds and designed activity spaces keep children entertained. "Mountain Lake Campground is a massive system of varied campsites... the property has so many amenities (shower houses, laundromats, pools, ice cream store, and playgrounds)," notes Christopher S.
Wildlife encounters: Regular deer sightings occur at most campgrounds in the area. As Katie J. mentions, "Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn! They had a mini golf course, a small pool, a jumping pad, and an ice cream shop in the general store."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this region have elevation changes. One camper at Flatwoods KOA noted, "Very unlevel spot. Not sure if they are all like this, but it's a big ugh..."
Water quality varies: Some locations have mineral-heavy water. "Make sure you run the water lines to clear them out before hooking up. The water quality is very poor," advises Laura H. about Flatwoods KOA.
Cell service limitations: Coverage depends on your carrier and specific location. "We had AT&T and Sprint cell signal," reports Zayne W. about Rays Campground, while Flatwoods KOA reviews mention "decent cellular for AT&T and TMobile/US Cellular."
Limited dining options: Some small towns have restricted restaurant hours. At Elk River Hotel and Café, "Breakfast is optional, reasonably priced at $10 per person, and is served in the café at 8:30 am. The café is open for dinner Tuesday– Saturday from 4 pm– 9 pm."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites near playgrounds: Request specific site numbers with playground access. "We took site 269 for the proximity to one of the little playgrounds and easy walk to bathrooms. We had a great time and it was easy to let our 3 year old play while we setup," shares Nick C. about Mountain Lake Campground.
Book loop C at Bulltown: These sites offer family-friendly layouts and facilities. "I'd recommend c1-c5 if you have kids," suggests Jeremiah S. after staying at Babcock State Park Campground.
Prepare for temperature fluctuations: Summer days can reach 85°F but nights drop significantly. "The temperature got down to 30 degrees and frost covered everything," reports Dave V. about Babcock State Park in early May.
Consider smaller loops for privacy: Request areas away from main campground loops for quieter family experiences. "The smaller loop to the right as you enter and a few sites to the left sit in slightly more wooded sites," notes one Babcock State Park reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Many glamping sites near Duck provide only electric. "There is a sink and dorm-sized fridge but no microwave or way to cook a meal," notes a reviewer at Elk River Hotel and Café.
Navigating steep entrance roads: Several campgrounds have challenging access points. "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill," warns Fred R. about Rays Campground.
Consider site locations carefully: At Rifrafters Campground, "Up front is a regular campground but we are in the back, secluded and peaceful. Site 34. There are about 8 nice sites out back with water and electricity," advises Larry M.
Winter RV options are limited: Most campgrounds close seasonally, but some remain open. "April 1 to Nov 1, open all year for RV," notes Rifrafters Campground's seasonal information.