The Keslers Cross Lanes area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, creating distinctive camping conditions with temperatures often 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby lowlands. The region experiences significant seasonal variation, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F and fall nights frequently dropping below 45°F. Camping options near Summersville Lake range from primitive sites with no hookups to fully-equipped cabins with modern amenities.
What to do
Paddling at Summersville Lake: The clear waters provide excellent kayaking and swimming opportunities, with beach access at several points. At Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, one visitor noted, "The lake is amazing, clear and has so many visual gems that I highly suggest a visit."
Hiking the Endless Wall Trail: Located in New River Gorge National Park, this moderate 2.4-mile loop offers spectacular canyon views just 30 minutes from most camping areas. A visitor to Adventures on the Gorge - Mill Creek shared, "New River Gorge bridge was amazing specially Long point trail was having so scenic view of New River Gorge Bridge."
Mini-golf and recreational activities: Several campgrounds offer on-site activities for all ages. As one camper at Mountain Lake Campground noted, "Decent showerhouses with hot water! Cute little store with ice cream, firewood, ice, knick knacks, and a few grocery items. Weekend activities for the kids, putt putt, a pool, several swingset/play areas."
Visit historic sites: The area contains remnants of mining operations and military training facilities. At Army Camp, "Military history buffs will appreciate the remains of an Army training encampment along the gravel road driving in. Known for equipping soldiers to build floating bridges across rivers to move troops and heavy artillery."
What campers like
Secluded sites in wooded settings: For those seeking glamping near Keslers Cross Lanes, West Virginia, privacy is a major draw. A visitor to Rays Campground explained, "The site we had, site 10, was large and secluded. Clean shower house and hot water and the owners were extremely friendly."
Clean, modern facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathhouses. As one camper at The Outpost at New River Gorge mentioned, "Bathrooms are nicer than our bathrooms at home. Friendly and helpful staff. There was low key live music Friday and a band/party Saturday night that was super fun."
Proximity to water features: Several campgrounds offer direct access to rivers or lakes. A visitor to Grandview Sandbar Campground shared, "Tent spots have the best access to and views of the river, which is glorious. Car spots lack the view, but they're quiet. Trains passing in the night are oddly soothing."
Free camping options: The New River Gorge National Park offers several no-fee campgrounds. As one camper noted, "You can't beat an established campground (picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms) in a national park that's also free! Good amount of spiders and ants but didn't notice any mosquitoes in mid May."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds and glamping sites near Keslers Cross Lanes operate seasonally. One visitor to Babcock State Park Campground reported, "We camped at site 21, which was the middle of a loop and it was space and flat. It had another site next to it but it was further apart than other sites. Some of the edge site, like 19 had some sloping issues."
Cell reception varies significantly: Many campgrounds have limited or no service. At Army Camp, one camper noted, "No AT&T service so I only stayed two nights (gotta work during the week!)."
Water levels can change rapidly: Sites near rivers may experience flooding. One camper warned, "When breaking camp, it was noted the New River had encroached another 100ft through the woodland, flowing alongside the campground loop gravel drive…30 ft from our tent pad."
Road conditions can be challenging: Many campgrounds have steep or narrow access roads. A visitor to Army Camp shared, "Road to access is single lane paved/gravel. Best for cars/vans, but did see some small pull behinds."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Several locations feature kid-friendly facilities. A visitor to Mountain Lake Campground shared, "Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site."
Consider cabins for comfort with young children: For families seeking luxury camping near Keslers Cross Lanes, cabin options provide added convenience. At Rifrafters Campground, one visitor mentioned, "We stopped in one night on our way back to Pennsylvania. We had a lovely stay and the hosts were so hospitable. We purchased firewood and they walked it to our campsite."
Plan for temperature variations: The mountain elevation means nights can get cool even in summer. Pack layers and appropriate sleeping gear. A camper at Babcock State Park noted, "We camped near the end of October for 5 days, so there weren't a ton of other people, but the park was clean and quiet."
Check for swimming access: Water activities are popular for families. A visitor to Little Beaver State Park shared, "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."
Tips from RVers
Leveling can be challenging: Many sites require effort to level. One RVer at Little Beaver State Park Campground advised, "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."
Limited full hookups available: While water and electric are common, sewer connections are rarer. A camper at Little Beaver noted, "Just stayed for one night passing through and we were sad we couldn't stay longer. Sites are big and spread out. Only downside for longer term stays is no sewer hookup, but they do have a very convenient dump spot at entry."
Some areas restrict RV size: Road access can limit larger vehicles. A visitor to Rifrafters Campground noted, "The fact that they had reliable WiFi throughout the park was a huge bonus for a remote worker. The staff was friendly, helpful, and the restroom facilities were quite nice. They even delivered firewood right to my site!"
Reserve well in advance for prime sites: Popular RV spots fill quickly, especially those with hookups. At Adventures on the Gorge, a visitor shared, "We loved our experience here! RV sites are not private but we had great neighbors and a great weekend. Bathhouses were very clean, firewood was delivered which made things easy."
