Cabin rentals near Gilbert, West Virginia range from basic to fully equipped accommodations with varying amenities. Some sites have cabins right next to trail systems while others offer more isolated settings within woodland areas. Most cabin sites require reservations and availability varies seasonally, with certain amenities operating on limited hours during winter months.
What to do
Water activities: At Lake Stephens Campground, visitors can enjoy a sectioned-off swimming area and small water park. Fishing opportunities abound for those seeking a quieter experience. A camper notes, "The roads and views of the lake are beautiful. I recommend this campground."
Wildlife viewing: Chief Logan State Park Campground offers a wildlife center where visitors can observe bears, bobcats, and raptors for a $2 donation. One visitor shared, "The caretaker helped me get some nice photos of the bears by putting some honey and peanut butter on the fence around their enclosure." The park also features recently reintroduced elk that can sometimes be spotted.
Trail hiking: Multiple cabin locations connect to extensive trail systems. At Camp Creek State Park, cabins provide easy access to waterfall trails. "The hiking is difficult in some areas but spectacularly beautiful," notes a reviewer. Most trails require proper footwear due to rocky terrain and occasional steep sections.
What campers like
Affordable cabin rates: Rental cabins near Gilbert offer good value compared to hotel accommodations. Many include kitchen facilities and private sleeping areas at reasonable rates.
On-site conveniences: Backwoods Camping & RV Park provides practical amenities for cabin guests. A camper appreciated that "the staff are very easy to work with - they will sell and chop the wood you need," making it convenient for visitors who don't want to haul their own firewood.
Recreational facilities: Many cabin locations include additional recreational amenities. At Little Beaver State Park Campground, "walking trail systems connected to camp sites" create easy access to nature. The park also features a lake with multiple recreation possibilities, allowing guests to enjoy various activities without driving elsewhere.
What you should know
Winter limitations: While some cabins remain available year-round, access roads can become challenging in winter. At Breaks Interstate Park Campground, some connecting roads close during winter months due to steep terrain.
Limited services: Many cabin areas have minimal nearby services. A visitor advised, "Be sure to bring all necessary supplies BEFORE you get here, nearest stores are a 20 minute drive away on crooked mountain roads."
Reservation requirements: Cabins fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Most require advance booking, with some locations accepting reservations up to a year in advance. Weekend availability becomes particularly limited during summer and fall color season.
Cell service: Coverage varies significantly between cabin locations. Some parks offer WiFi at cabins or in common areas, but reliability varies. One camper mentioned, "No service for Verizon users... Sites have wifi but I could only get it to work 20% of the time."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many cabin locations include dedicated play areas for children. Ace Adventure Resort offers "an outside kitchen sink by bathrooms for filling up water and washing dishes," making meal preparation with children more manageable.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings. A camper at Lake Stephens warned about having "to battle 6 raccoons at our site," indicating the importance of proper food storage even when staying in cabins.
Activity planning: Schedule structured activities between cabin time. A visitor noted, "We hiked the Coal Mine Trail with remnants of the coal industry decaying in the forest," providing educational opportunities about local history that can engage children.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Roads leading to cabin areas can be challenging. One camper warned, "Make sure your truck/vehicle towing is not underrated for what you're pulling as it is a lot of big uphill elevation and tons of windy roads and tight turns."
Utilities information: Many cabins have electrical limitations. A camper mentioned, "Some cabins feature full kitchens while others provide only basic cooking equipment," making it important to verify what appliances can be used simultaneously without tripping breakers.
Seasonal preparations: Winter cabin stays require additional planning. At Twin Falls Resort State Park Campground, "There was supposed to be community water at the campsite, but unfortunately it was turned off as we were there at the end of their camping season." Always verify which utilities remain operational during off-season stays.