Camping cabins near Gerrardstown, West Virginia sit within the eastern panhandle region at elevations ranging from 500-1,500 feet, where the Appalachian foothills create varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s, while summer highs reach the mid-80s with moderate humidity. Most cabin accommodations in this area require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during peak summer months.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: The nearby stretch of the AT offers day hikes with various difficulty levels, accessible from Harpers Ferry. "A friend and I chose this campground because of it's right-on-the-river sites and it's close proximity to the tubing we'd be doing on the Shenandoah River through the same company as the campsite, River Riders," notes a guest at Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders.
Fishing opportunities: Several camping areas provide direct river or lake access for fishing. "You can fish in the lake (catch and release) and a nice gazebo to relax in," reports a visitor to Little Orleans Campground, which maintains a stocked pond on the property.
Civil War history exploration: Multiple battlefields and historic sites are within 30 minutes of most cabins. "Location, Location, Location! Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car," shares a reviewer from Harpers Ferry KOA.
Water activities: Tubing, kayaking, and swimming are popular summer options. "The river views were amazing," notes one camper about Harpers Ferry Campground, while another mentions, "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing."
What campers like
Riverside cabin locations: Waterfront camping offers both recreation and ambiance. At Camp Cacapon, a visitor appreciated that "The RV spot is perfect, so leveled all you have to do is shock your wheels. We brought our kayaks and got them on the river for some time. The scenery will take your breath away."
Availability of essential amenities: On-site stores provide convenience items when needed. "Camp store has everything you need," observed a Candy Hill guest, while another camper noted, "Easy check-in, well stocked store, including some RV essentials and parts" at the same location.
Private, wooded settings: Many cabins offer natural surroundings and separation from other campers. One visitor to Shenandoah River State Park appreciated that "The Primitive Camping spots were all taken however, so arrive early if you want one of those. Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter."
Off-site attractions proximity: The region offers numerous day trip options. "Across the lake from the campground is a casino and resort. A lot to do here!" observed one visitor to Rocky Gap State Park. Another Rocky Gap camper mentioned, "There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train tracks and highways near some properties create noise issues. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry Campground noted, "The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night."
Site spacing variations: Some campgrounds have tightly arranged cabins and sites. "The sites were extremely close together," commented a Harpers Ferry KOA visitor, while another observed, "Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together."
Seasonal operation: Several facilities close or reduce services in winter months. "I called their customer service number and asked if the water park would be open. I was told yes. We arrive on our first day of 4, put on our swimsuits, and play in the splash park for several hours... We stop by the front office the next day and sure enough, closed for the season," reported a Jellystone Park visitor.
Vehicle requirements: Some access roads present challenges. "The road is gravel and could use some work, I'd recommend 4x4 drive," advised a guest at The Cove Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Multiple locations offer swimming areas with varying amenities. At Jellystone Park, a family noted, "We recent went camping for the first time at Jellystone in Maryland. 5 of our 6 kids came with us, so we knew we needed to find a camping ground more geared kids. Jellystone was amazing in every way possible. The kids were never bored and had so much fun."
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment for younger visitors. "Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch. I really like that there are trails from the camp loops to the beach," shared a Rocky Gap visitor.
Educational programs: Some parks offer structured activities focused on nature and history. "The children's programs offered on the weekends were great too," mentioned a Shenandoah River State Park visitor about the educational opportunities.
Animal encounters: Various sites feature animals that children enjoy. "My kids were obsessed with the goats and the little mining table. The staff felt like family," shared a visitor to The Cove Campground, which maintains free-range goats on the property.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring extensive leveling equipment. "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," warned a Harpers Ferry KOA visitor.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. A Little Orleans camper advised, "Sites and roads are gravel, nice newer fire pit and picnic table at each. There is a pool, basketball hoops, and a fully stocked camp store."
Hookup availability: Water and electrical service varies by location and season. "Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter," shared a Shenandoah River visitor, noting the year-round amenities.
Seasonal restrictions: Some RV facilities have limited winter operations. "We would have to move because it is rented (that was understandable...we could do that) and she would look for another," explained a Little Orleans seasonal camper about adjusting reservations during busier periods.
