Cabins near Harrisville, West Virginia range from rustic to full-service accommodations scattered throughout the surrounding hills and valleys. The region sits within the Appalachian Plateau at elevations between 700-1,200 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F while fall brings cooler nights that cabin campers should prepare for.
What to do
Rail trail exploration: North Bend State Park offers direct access to the 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail with 35 bridges and 11 tunnels. "The Park is great and we have stayed at lodge 4 times before but this was first camping trip. We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby," notes Jeremiah S. from River Run Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Hughes River at River Run Campground provides calm water recreation opportunities. According to a recent visitor, "We were at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! Plenty of ice and firewood at the store and a cute little gift shop."
Mountain biking trails: Mountwood County Park maintains an extensive network of mountain biking trails across from the main camping area. Dave V. notes that "if bombing mountain bike trails is your thing, then across the highway from the campground is your dream." The park hosts regular mountain bike races and events throughout the summer.
Lake activities: Multiple stocked fishing lakes offer opportunities for anglers. Statts Mills Campground provides direct access to O'Brien Lake. Andrew S. reports: "Right beside the area for camping is the parking lot where you can put in boats into O'brien Lake. There seems to be an abundance of deer in the area."
What campers like
Riverside camping sites: The tent areas at Riversedge Campground place campers directly beside flowing water. "Our tent was right on the river and Kelli was the best host ever! On our last day she brought us warm cinnamon rolls and coffee. We enjoyed them by our fire as we watched the mist gently float over the water," says Eric S.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin rentals and camping areas around Harrisville offer excellent wildlife watching. "We see deer almost every evening," notes a camper at Shadow Lake RV Resort. Numerous reviewers mention deer sightings throughout the region, particularly at dusk.
Clean facilities: North Bend State Park maintains well-kept shower facilities. A reviewer mentioned that "The grounds and facilities are neat and clean" and another noted the "Showerhouse/restrooms are located in the center of this area...and are very clean and maintained."
Themed accommodations: For a unique overnight experience, Bigfoot Ridge offers specialized cabin rentals. "This yurt is 100% Bigfoot themed and has all the essentials including a shower house with laundry, a creek, and an amazing bed," reports Bethany R.
What you should know
Cabin availability varies seasonally: Advance reservations are essential during summer months, especially for weekend stays. Many cabins are unavailable during winter except for year-round options at Stonewall Resort State Park.
Site conditions differ significantly: Tent campers should note that some campgrounds have challenging terrain. At Mountwood Park Family Campground, Dave V. observes that "The primitive tent sites are less than desirable and more of an afterthought...There is patchy tall grass, dirt and rocks with no leveled areas."
Bathroom facilities vary by location: Some cabin areas have modern restrooms while others maintain basic facilities. A camper at Forked Run noted: "The pit toilets were filthy- covered in flies, spiderwebs and dirt. They look like they have not been hosed out since the 70's."
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before planning evening campfires. Most cabin sites include fire rings, but seasonal restrictions may apply. Firewood is typically available for purchase at campground stores with prices ranging from $5-7 per bundle.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Forked Run State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities despite some facility limitations. "The campgrounds, however, leave a lot to be desired. The people were really nice, but the facilities were terrible," notes Megan M., though she adds, "This state park has a beautiful lake and a nice beach. There are boat rentals and a frisbee golf course."
Swimming options: Look for cabin rentals with pool access during summer visits. River Run Campground provides swimming opportunities. "We had a wonderful time. The Park is great and we have stayed at lodge 4 times before but this was first camping trip. We kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby," reports a visitor.
Best cabin locations: Certain cabin sites offer better family accommodation. At River Run Campground, Jeremiah S. recommends specific sites: "I would also recommend sites 10, 11, 17, 19, 13, and 14."
Trail difficulty: Most hiking trails in the region are rated easy to moderate, appropriate for families. At North Bend State Park, one camper noted "Lots to do in the park, Great camping sites, easily accessible trails."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. "Back ins are sort and most sites have no level ground even for the picnic table or fire ring," notes Bob L. about Forked Run State Park.
Electric reliability concerns: Power quality issues can affect sensitive electronics. Tadd and Justin at Stonewall Resort noted: "My surgeguard shut off the power in the evening due to high voltage. It was showing 137 volts at one time."
Water quality varies: Flatwoods KOA campers should filter water before use. "Make sure you run the water lines to clear them out before hooking up. The water quality is very poor," advises Laura H.
RV site selection: At River Run Campground, waterfront sites offer better spacing. "The coveted RV/Camper sites are along the bank of the river and offer more distance between neighbors," notes a reviewer, adding "On the inner ring, a split rail fence separates neighbors."
