Camping options around Durbin, West Virginia stretch from riverfront sites along the Shavers Fork and Cheat River valleys to forest campgrounds at elevations between 2,300 and 3,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, especially in July and August. Most campgrounds in this mountainous region operate from April through October, with limited winter availability due to snowfall that can exceed 150 inches annually at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing access: Wade fishing opportunities abound at Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground where "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." Trout fishing is particularly productive from March through May.
Hike Potato Knob: Located near Holly River State Park, this challenging trail requires a full day commitment. "The Potato Knob trail is awesome...plan it for a day...bring a full hydration pack and trekking poles...it is strenuous but rewarding," notes one visitor. The trail climbs approximately 1,800 feet over 4 miles to reach views of surrounding valleys.
Visit Douglas Falls: A short drive from Five River Campground, this historic site features cascading waterfalls alongside ruins of old coke ovens. "There are a ton of hikes within 30 minutes, and we checked out Douglas Falls. Next time, we'll visit Lindy Observation deck and more of Blackwater Falls State Park," reports one camper. Access requires navigating gravel roads suitable for most vehicles during dry conditions.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. One reviewer notes "Dark sky and an open field for stargazing. There are cabins nearby, but no tents." The campground's location in a canyon with minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Swimming holes: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground provides natural water recreation. "On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks," according to a camper who appreciated the access to water recreation. Most riverside campgrounds in the area feature similar access points.
Cabin options: For those seeking rustic accommodations, Seneca State Forest offers unique pioneer cabins. "We stayed in one of the pioneer cabins. Let me say it was awesome, wood stove, gas light, outhouse and had to get your own water. The cabin was well put together and the staff has you set up to enjoy your stay with everything from soap to cut wood," writes one visitor.
What you should know
Weather patterns: Holly River State Park experiences frequent precipitation. "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round," reports one camper. Pack extra tarps and waterproof gear regardless of season.
Connectivity issues: Cell service is extremely limited throughout the region. At Seneca Shadows, "there was no phone signal at all for Verizon service, so a nice place to disconnect." Plan navigation and communication accordingly before arrival.
Off-season options: Five River Campground remains open year-round, unlike most area campgrounds. "Five River Campground has 120 RV sites many with full hook-ups. It can accommodate tents to large rigs. It has great cell signal for most carriers and even offers wifi and cable," notes one winter visitor. Snow removal equipment operates on main campground roads during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground access: Holly River State Park campground offers family-friendly facilities. "There is a pool and other activities available. We stayed at sites 35 & 36," writes one family camper. Sites closest to recreation areas fill quickest during summer months.
River safety: For families enjoying water activities, consider water levels and currents. At Five River Campground, "The location is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it." Water levels rise quickly after storms, necessitating supervision.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area provides natural wildlife encounters. "There is a large clearing off of Hidden Valley Rd just past Poor Farm Camp A Rd. that can easily accommodate multiple vehicles with 3 or 4 fire pits. In the spring, it is covered in wild hares," notes one visitor. Morning and evening hours offer best viewing times for deer and other wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Revelle's River Resort, prime riverfront sites offer the best experience. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river and the seasonal campers spread out around," reports one RVer. Reserve these premium sites 2-3 months in advance during peak season.
Access challenges: Several RV parks around Durbin, West Virginia have terrain limitations. At Seneca Shadows, "The sites are a little tight if you have a bigger camper. We have a R-Pod so the site was perfect for us." Most campgrounds can accommodate rigs up to 30 feet, but longer vehicles may struggle with tight turns and low-hanging branches.
Winter camping preparedness: For RVers utilizing Five River Campground's year-round services, proper preparation is essential. The campground offers "paved up to the campground. It has 120 RV sites many with full hook-ups. It can accommodate tents to large rigs." Winter campers should bring heated water hoses and tank heaters for freezing temperatures that can persist from November through March.
