Camping cabins near Dunmore, West Virginia range from 3,000 to 3,500 feet in elevation, creating distinct seasonal variations. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February with significant snowfall possible through March. Summer cabin rentals typically require advance reservations of 3-6 months, especially for unique accommodations like fire towers or riverside properties.
What to do
Thorny Mountain Fire Tower rental: Reserve well in advance to stay in this unique accommodation at Seneca State Forest. The tower sits at 3,458 ft elevation offering 360-degree mountain views. "You can drive up the mountain (any vehicle in summer, might need 4WD in mud or snow) or hike. Bring all your standard backpacking/camping gear, cots are provided. Maximum 4 people," notes Amber A. from Seneca State Forest.
River activities: The Greenbrier River provides excellent fishing, kayaking and tubing opportunities near campgrounds. "Located right on the beautiful Greenbrier River, the camping is perfect for bringing your kayaks! Watoga offers primitive and electric only sites, but there is water to fill up with throughout the park and a dumping station," explains Thomas R. from Riverside Campground.
Hiking trails network: Multiple state forests connect with extensive trail systems. "I spent a 3-night backpacking trip in Seneca State Forest, and it was a blast! Water is crystal clear (COLD), and the landscape is breathtaking!" reports Nick P. Trails range from easy creek-side paths to challenging mountain ascents with significant elevation changes.
What campers like
Deep forest immersion: Sites tucked within dense forest provide exceptional privacy. "Site 4 (non-electric) July 28-31, 2020... One of the best when it comes to size of site, privacy, and remote feel. Firewood is available for small fee. Table, fire pit, and comfortable pad. Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures," writes Mike C. about Seneca State Forest.
Creek-side sites: Many campsites feature creek or river access within steps of your tent or cabin. "We stayed at sites 35 & 36. There are several trails available. Great sleeping with the Laurel Fork running right my the sites. Perfect if you have children," reports Missy S. about Holly River State Park.
Night sky viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. "Being perched beside rainbows...moonlight piercing the night through your curtainless windows...and reveling in the surreal sunrises and sunsets did it for me! Your closest neighbor is waaay down the mountain," shares Dave V. The area's higher elevation provides clearer atmospheric conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Prepare for limited or no connectivity. "There is no cell service within 30 miles, so for an outsider who doesn't know the area, it was difficult to find the campsite. You also better bring everything you need beforehand," advises Evan G. about Seneca State Forest. Many locations offer WiFi only at bathhouses or administrative buildings.
Weather preparedness: Rapid weather changes are common in these mountains. "It rained every day but two, on our month of camping, so we were not dissuaded. I do recommend bringing additional tarps to cover any and everything you desire to stay remotely dry," recommends Dave V. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently during summer months.
Supply distances: Groceries and supplies require significant travel from most campsites. "There are no grocery stores anywhere near the campsite and we didn't have any food with us," notes Evan G. Most cabin locations are 20-45 minutes from the nearest stores, requiring advance planning and packed supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Riverside locations: Seek out sites with water access for natural entertainment. "The Riverside loop... The Greenbrier River was right at the back of our site. People were floating and fishing and paddling. The Greenbrier River Trail, an 80 mile long rail trail is just across the river," shares Marcandpatti B. from Watoga State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabin areas offer excellent wildlife spotting. "This campground in the Kumbrabow State forest has 13 campsites that are pretty secluded and private. They are all surrounded by woods and a river and a few on the river. Very kid friendly, I mean I have four girls so...yeah," mentions Vanessa C. from Kumbrabow State Forest.
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation sites can be significantly cooler than lower areas. "Kumbrabow State Forest offers lots of great trails, rustic cabins, and a primitive campground. This historic recreation area, carved into this 9,500-acre forest by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's... It's located at 3,000 feet above sea level on the western edge of the Allegheny Highlands," explains Jennifer B. Pack additional warm layers, even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Some forest roads require careful navigation. "Lengthy dirt road drive to get there, No cell coverage or Wi-Fi, 2 mile drive to bath house," notes C.S. about Kumbrabow State Forest. Many cabin areas have narrow, winding access roads that may challenge larger vehicles.
Site dimensions: RV sites vary significantly in size and accessibility. "The campsites are very close to each other and the roads are very narrow. We can't even extend our awning due to through traffic," warns Jennifer A. about Walnut Hills Campground. Research specific site dimensions before booking, especially for larger rigs.
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping affects facility availability. "I stayed in one of the walk in sites with a tent pad and fire pit. It was more than what you need. Everyone was super friendly and inviting," shares Charles K. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often provide better availability while maintaining reasonable comfort levels.
