The New River Gorge region near Jumping Branch, West Virginia sits at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 3,200 feet, creating diverse microclimates across the area's campgrounds. The terrain varies from riverside flats to mountainous forest, with most glamping facilities situated between 1,700-2,500 feet where cooler evening temperatures persist even in summer. Rainfall averages 44 inches annually, making weather-resistant glamping structures particularly valuable in this region.
What to do
Hiking at Little Beaver State Park: Explore miles of interconnected trails directly accessible from your campsite. The trail system features moderate difficulty levels suitable for family exploration. "Lots of lovely trails to explore. It was quiet and super clean. The only drawback is that you need to drive to the restroom because the walk is a little too far," notes Michelle W. from Little Beaver State Park Campground.
Fishing on the New River: Cast for smallmouth bass, catfish, and muskie along the river's edge. Army Camp provides direct river access with designated fishing areas. "Army Camp is my favorite place to camp. 10 tent sites. 2 are handicap. Has always been quiet with good people camping while I was here. Area for people to swim in the river or fish," shares Billy C. who frequently visits the area.
Floating trips on the Greenbrier River: Rent tubes, kayaks or canoes for self-guided water adventures ranging from 1-4 hours. "Rented tubes and floated down the river. The staff was great and the grounds well kept. We will be putting this place on our list of parks to stop at every year," writes Anthony D. who enjoyed Greenbrier River Campground.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Some glamping locations feature individual bathroom facilities rather than communal spaces. "They have six private bathrooms with showers in each, one was handicap accessible. They have an outside 'kitchen' sink by bathrooms for filling up water and washing dishes," reports Terah J. about Ace Adventure Resort.
Extended glamping seasons: While most standard campgrounds close by October, some facilities offer year-round options. "We stayed in one of the cabins for Christmas. We were one of a handful of visitors staying at that time of year. The staff were accommodating of our late-night arrival. The cabins are heated, which kept us plenty warm in the middle of winter," shares Les R. from Adventures on the Gorge.
Spacious glamping sites: Glamping accommodations typically offer more room than standard campsites. "It rained the entire time I was there, yet I still enjoyed my stay. Campsite was clean and the other campers were quiet. I spoke to one group who stayed Saturday night only and that was just in passing at the bathroom," notes Todd V. who appreciated the privacy at Army Camp.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many glamping locations have spotty or no mobile coverage. "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!). Still, it wasn't crowded and I enjoyed evening river dips before bed," explains Tucker B. from Army Camp.
Noise considerations: Some locations experience background noise from transportation corridors. "63 is a very busy road that is right beside the campground with loud traffic moving almost nonstop throughout the day and night. On top of that, there are railroad tracks right across the river that are almost as busy with long trains," notes AUDIOMIND about Greenbrier River Campground.
Flooding potential: Riverside glamping sites can experience water level changes. "This was a peaceful, nice area but when there is a lot of rain there is definitely the chance it'll flood," warns Chaz M. who stayed at Grandview Sandbar, highlighting the importance of checking weather forecasts when glamping near Jumping Branch waterways.
Tips for camping with families
All-day water activities: Consider resorts with constructed water features for reliable family fun. "From whitewater rafting to the waterpark to their 15+ different adventures, Ace Adventure Resort has it all. The waterpark is a bit overpriced but fun none the less," recommends Sara C.
Multiple accommodation options: Choose locations offering a range of structures if traveling with extended family. "We camped in our tent for 2 nights on the mountaintop. We were able to go whitewater rafting one day and then explored the surrounding area on another day. The resort is awesome. They have cabins and they have hot tubs," shares Bridget H. about her Ace Adventure experience.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for glamping sites with dedicated play areas. "A very nice activity area for kids sat along the inner portion of the main loop," mentions a visitor to Babcock State Park, where structured recreational options complement natural exploration opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing matters: Glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. "Spots fill quickly. Stayed here for a few nights with 3 other people. We had 1 big tent, 2 vehicles and a few dogs and had plenty of room," advises Corda B. who visited Army Camp.
Challenging access roads: Many glamping facilities near Jumping Branch, West Virginia have difficult approaches. "Make sure your truck/vehicle towing is not underrated for what you're pulling as it is a lot of big uphill elevation and tons of windy roads and tight turns," warns Austin-Tarra G. from Twin Falls Resort State Park.
Leveling considerations: Some glamping sites require technical setup. "Many sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site," shares Adam and Suzanne B. who stayed at Little Beaver State Park.
