Camping areas around Hacker Valley range from 1,500 to over 3,000 feet in elevation, creating distinct temperature zones throughout the seasons. Summer temperatures typically stay 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands, while winter nights can drop well below freezing. The region sits within the Monongahelia National Forest's western boundaries where multiple waterways converge, creating diverse riverside and forested camping environments.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct river or lake access for fishing. At Bulltown Campground, campers can fish directly from their sites, as one visitor noted, "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."
Wildlife viewing trails: The Jeremiah Carpenter Trailhead connects to several campgrounds for hiking and wildlife spotting. Trails range from half-mile easy paths to more challenging routes. As one camper at Seneca State Forest reported, "Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures. Short drive or hike to Lake with boat rentals and fishing."
Water recreation options: Multiple waterways support kayaking, swimming, and tubing during warmer months. The Shavers Fork River at Five River Campground provides an excellent location for water activities. According to one camper: "The river is fantastic and holds trout and smallmouth for those that like to fish. We walked up river to the end of the property and were able to tube down to the lower end of the property."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with natural buffers. At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, which offers yurt camping near Hacker Valley, West Virginia, campers appreciate the layout: "The campsites themselves are roomy, plenty of space! Ours even had an amazing view of the small airport and surrounding hills."
Clean facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom and shower facilities. One camper at Flatwoods KOA shared: "Campground is clean and well-maintained. Very dog friendly. They have a nice play ground for kids and a kamp k-9 for the dogs."
Seasonal activities: Different times of year offer unique experiences in the region. During fall, the changing foliage creates distinctive camping backgrounds. A visitor to Bulltown noted: "A lot of bike paths. We had a really late arrival and it was such an easy process to find our spot. Clean and efficient campsite."
What you should know
Spotty connectivity: Cell service can be limited or non-existent in many areas. Some campgrounds offer paid WiFi options. A camper at Stonewall Resort State Park Campground advised: "Very nice campground with full hookups. Campsites have blacktop pads to park on. Campsites are level tent sites have platforms. Has bathrooms with showers."
Variable site conditions: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain that can challenge setup. As one Mountain Lake visitor cautioned: "Most sites are not level at all, there is one single bath house for each level making some sites very far from a bathroom/shower."
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water that may affect taste and equipment. "Make sure you run the water lines to clear them out before hooking up. The water quality is very poor," reported a camper at Flatwoods KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for easier supervision. A Mountain Lake Campground visitor shared: "Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site."
Swimming spots: Multiple campgrounds offer safe swimming areas with gradual entry points. "The lake swimming was fun. Very quiet at night. I would be happy to come back!" noted a family at Mountain Lake Campground.
Bicycle-friendly areas: Several campgrounds have paved or smooth paths for young riders. According to a Bulltown visitor: "Good area for kids to ride bikes. Good shady sites. Within five minutes a local grocery store."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variability: Electric amperage differs widely between campgrounds. Many locations offer 30-amp service while fewer provide 50-amp connections. A Stonewall Resort visitor cautioned: "My surgeguard shut off the power in the evening due to high voltage. It was showing 137 volts at one time."
Leveling challenges: Prepare with adequate leveling blocks as many sites require significant adjustment. "Very unlevel spot. Not sure if they are all like this, but it's a big ugh," noted a Flatwoods KOA visitor.
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have tight turning radiuses or steep access roads. "Be ready to tow up steep hills throughout this park. You enter the park through a Chevrolet dealership lot and then check in at the Days Inn Hotel," shared an RVer at Flatwoods KOA.
