Camping near Ellenboro, West Virginia centers in the Mid-Ohio Valley region, with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,200 feet and a humid continental climate that brings four distinct seasons. The area sits at the intersection of two major watersheds—the Hughes River and Middle Island Creek—creating diverse water recreation opportunities across multiple campgrounds. Most camping facilities in the region operate from April through October, with limited winter options available.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: At River Run Campground, visitors access numerous trail systems directly from the campsite. "Bring your Bike! This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail. It was easy check in with a friendly staff. Great place to stay with plenty of room to enjoy yourself," notes William B.
Paddling on North Bend Lake: The 305-acre lake offers calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing, with several access points near camping areas. "I paddled on the North Bend Lake which was extremely peaceful and beautiful, with the colors of fall surrounding me on all sides. I brought my own kayak, but they had boats for rent," writes Jennifer B. who visited in October.
Trail exploration on horseback: Kinderhook Trailhead provides equestrian-focused camping with direct access to trail systems. "This is a horse trail camp. There is a vault toilet, a few trash cans, a water spigot and plenty of room for horse trailers. There are some trails you can walk or ride on. The locals were all very friendly," reports Amanda U.
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest reviews from campers, particularly those along the Hughes River. "We were at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! Plenty of ice and firewood at the store and a cute little gift shop. The site was mostly flat where we parked the camper and very close to the bathhouse," shares Julie C.
Historical features: The region's industrial heritage creates unique camping experiences. At Hune Bridge Campground, campers appreciate the historic structures nearby. "Adorable little campground, with a historic covered bridge and lovely creek in the backyard. There are 4 campsites and a vault toilet that is relatively clean and well-stocked," describes Shari G.
Secluded forest settings: Many campers value the quieter, more remote options in the area. "Secluded & Quiet. Ashley with The Dyrt! Extending a warm welcome to your host, Cassandra. This is a large area to set up your camp!" notes Ashley F. about Backwoods Campground & Winery, which offers just six tent and RV sites.
What you should know
GPS navigation challenges: Multiple campgrounds report issues with GPS directions. At Cokeley Campground, Kim M. advises: "Do not follow GPS to get to North Bend SP(Cokeley or River Run) Call the park office directly. 304-643-2931. GPS took us up some nasty horse-shoe hills! Call the office! Park personnel said some GPS will bring campers up a bad gravel road!"
Site characteristics vary significantly: Level sites can be hard to find at certain campgrounds. "All of the campsites were on a slope. There were coke bottles and styrofoam plates in the burn pit. We had roaches up on our table checking out our food and had about 5 racoons constantly coming around to look for food," reports Jason M. about the primitive camping area at Mountwood Park.
Local visitor traffic patterns: Some campgrounds experience short-term visitors throughout the day. "People coming and going every 15 minutes ish. Some folks pull in stare at you for a few seconds then leave. Only staying one night here then moving on," warns Dexter V. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for summer visits: Mountwood Park Family Campground offers family-oriented amenities near the campsites. "We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby. There wasn't easy river access from the campground but we climbed down the hill with no problem and waded the stream for hours," writes Jeremiah S.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The property was very clean and family oriented. Nice spacing at our site in particular. I would also recommend sites 10, 11, 17, 19, 13, and 14," adds Jeremiah S. about his family's experience at River Run Campground.
Child-friendly cabin options: For families seeking more comfort than tent camping, cabins provide weather protection. "It was wonderful for our RV and family staying in their beautiful cabins," comments Linda D. about her stay at River Run Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: RVers recommend carefully choosing sites based on shade and level surfaces. At Bigfoot Ridge, "This yurt is 100% Bigfoot themed and has all the essentials including a shower house with laundry, a creek, and an amazing bed," according to Bethany R., highlighting alternative options for those without RVs.
Campground amenities for RVs: Full hookups can be hard to find in the region. "Small privately owned campground about 15 min off I-77. We stopped for an overnight on our way north. Right on the Ohio River. Tight spots, but pretty level. The owner, Max, is amazing... Did I mention we're right on the Ohio River with full hookup for $25 a night?! Full hookup alone is worth more than 25 bucks," reports Clean Slate D. about Harris RV Park.
Access routes for larger vehicles: Road conditions can be challenging for larger RVs. "Come in via Harrisville as the way in via Cairo has very bad roads. Campground is very nice and well maintained. Sites have electricity and water; dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration," advises James P. about his experience at Cokeley Campground.
