Cabin rentals near Horner, West Virginia operate in a high-elevation region between 1,600-3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Most forest service cabins close from late October through mid-April due to difficult winter access on mountain roads. Summer temperatures typically range 10-15°F cooler than nearby valley locations, making cabins comfortable without air conditioning during peak summer months.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Several trails lead to cascading waterfalls near Holly River State Park Campground. "The park has a total of 4 waterfalls to explore," notes one camper. Access varies seasonally with spring offering highest water volume.
Rail trail biking: Ride the historic 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail accessible from River Run Campground. "This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail," shares a visitor. The trail crosses 35 bridges and passes through 11 former railroad tunnels.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked streams and lakes provide trout and bass fishing. "The lake offers great relaxation and the trails around the lake offer pretty views," explains a Tygart Lake visitor. Most fishing spots require a West Virginia fishing license, available at camp stores for $19 daily or $27 for non-residents.
What campers like
Natural water features: Creekside camping with water sounds creates peaceful sleep environments. "The Holly River runs clear through the Park, right beside a good many of the sites and hanging a hammock and listening to the water, can't be beat!" notes a camper at Holly River State Park.
High-elevation cooling: During summer heat waves, mountain cabin locations provide natural air conditioning. A camper at Kumbrabow State Forest noted it's "located at 3,000 feet above sea level on the western edge of the Allegheny Highlands, so it's the highest state forest in West Virginia."
Swimming options: Natural swimming holes and pool access help during humid summer days. "We kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby," shares a River Run Campground visitor. Most natural swimming spots lack lifeguards while maintained pools have limited hours.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically between cabin locations. "There was no phone signal at all for Verizon service, so a nice place to disconnect," reports a Holly River visitor. Some campgrounds offer limited WiFi near office buildings only.
Weather preparedness: Rain patterns affect mountain cabins differently than valley locations. "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round," notes a camper. Bring extra tarps and rain gear regardless of forecast.
Check-in locations: Not all cabin check-ins happen at the actual campground. "Check-in is in the Days Inn. Signage is small and if we didn't know we needed to check-in at the hotel we would have missed it," shares a Flatwoods KOA visitor. Call ahead for specific instructions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Most established campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There are 88 campsites with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire ring... They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy," explains a Holly River visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening offer best wildlife sighting chances. "As you go through the park: deer, Turkey" can be spotted according to a camper. Keep food secured as raccoons are common at many sites.
Easy hiking options: Some trails work better for families with young children. A visitor at Stuart Recreation Area found "The 1.5 mile loop trail was great and just challenging enough to be fun. The campground and trail are filled with beautiful mountain laurel."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain cabin and RV areas require significant leveling. "Very unlevel spot. Not sure if they are all like this, but it's a big ugh," warns a Flatwoods KOA camper. Bring extra leveling blocks for mountain terrain.
Electric service quality: Power fluctuations occur at some locations. "My surgeguard shut off the power in the evening due to high voltage. It was showing 137 volts at one time," reported a camper at Stonewall Resort State Park. Consider bringing surge protectors for sensitive electronics.
Access road considerations: Several campgrounds require navigating unpaved forest roads. A Kumbrabow visitor warns cabins can be "Hard to access, need 4 wheel drive and GPS, good sense of direction." Some forest roads become impassable after heavy rainfall.
