Cabins near Hendricks, West Virginia offer accommodations in the eastern region of the state at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The Monongahela National Forest surrounds much of the area, creating a temperate climate with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby lowlands. Winter nights frequently drop below freezing while summer daytime temperatures average in the mid-70s.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: At Canaan Valley Resort State Park, numerous trail options accommodate various skill levels. "There are several beautiful hikes to take in the park. A scenic chair lift you can ride to the top of the ski mountain and hike back down to the bottom," notes Aimee L., who adds that "Elakala falls is the 4 falls of Shays Run... a great hike down blackwater canyon."
Fishing access: The rivers near cabin sites provide excellent fishing opportunities. At Revelle's River Resort, guests appreciate the riverside locations. Todd C. mentions, "We had a river lot which was beautiful. Restaurant, Shavers Saloon, was walking distance and had full bar with good food." Some cabins sit directly on prime fishing spots, with Melissa F. noting that the cabins at Shavers Fork Campground are "right by Shavers Fork people fish right there."
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings around cabin areas create excellent wildlife watching opportunities. Tracy S. shares that at Canaan Valley Resort there are "lots of trails and wildlife" and in another review mentions visitors can expect to see "lots of deer." Guests frequently report seeing deer at dawn and dusk near the cabin areas.
What campers like
Mountain lake activities: Tygart Lake State Park provides lake access for boating and swimming. David F. describes it as a "lake in the mountains" with "a lot of hiking trails to choose from and fishing, boating and swimming in the lake." The cabin area is within walking distance of water access points.
Fall foliage viewing: The cabins in this region offer prime locations for autumn color viewing. Kevin H. from Coopers Rock State Forest recommends "Fall Camping in North Central West Virginia" noting "The sites are nicely spaced apart, the camp staff is helpful, and the showers are very clean." The elevation changes throughout the area create extended viewing seasons as colors change at different rates.
Riverside accommodations: Cabins along waterways are particularly popular. At Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground, Tiel M. describes the property as "Primitive plus" and notes "The river is beautiful, but you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there. On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks."
What you should know
Seasonal planning required: Many cabin facilities operate on limited schedules. At Swallow Falls State Park, which is near the Hendricks area, camping season runs "April to December" and Gary P. notes "The park attendees were above standard, if not just down right great! From the young ladies in the registration office to the Ranger, finding us a parking spot for our 26' coach so we could tour the falls."
Variable bathroom facilities: Bathroom access differs significantly between cabin locations. Jean C. observes at Stuart Recreation Area "They still have plumbing issues and the showers are still non-functional." Some cabins have shared bathhouses while others rely on vault toilets or portable facilities.
Weather preparedness essential: Mountain weather can change rapidly in all seasons. Dave V. advises "This is West Virginia, so expect to experience rain and bring foul weather gear in the summer months. I have mastered the fine art of campsite tarping due to West Virginia camping. It also still gets chilly in these mountains during the early summer months."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin locations include children's play areas. At Canaan Valley Resort, Chris S. mentions an "Older playground, but good enough for kiddos. Mini golf course, rock wall, and civil war reenactments when we came." Check which cabin areas include play facilities when booking with children.
Swimming options: Kid-friendly water access varies between locations. Amanda B. describes Stuart Recreation Area as having a "great swimming hole in the park you can pay $5 to enter and swim or fish," which provides a controlled environment for family swimming.
Off-grid experience: Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin Resort offers an authentic unplugged stay. Jean C. points out "No cell phone coverage" but there's "Plenty to do in the immediate area, with the caverns, fishing, hiking, and climbing." Prepare children for limited device connectivity.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric connections are found at select cabin areas. Josh W. at Coopers Rock State Forest reports "The new section is open and ready. Water and Electric Only. Dump station on the way out. 50amp - No issues." Most cabin areas have limited full-hookup sites.
Site selection matters: When booking cabins with RV access, check specific site details. Rob F. at Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin Resort states "Only 10 sites right on the river. Great fishing. Very quiet. Full hookups for RVs including cable. A little pricey for the area." Many areas have both cabin and RV options but with different amenities.
Level sites vary: Terrain around cabins can be challenging. Mike G. at Coopers Rock State Forest notes "Campground was in great shape, the RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently." Request information about site grading when booking.
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