Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of central West Virginia, Horner sits at approximately 1,450 feet elevation with a humid continental climate that brings four distinct seasons. The region receives significant annual rainfall, making waterproof shelter crucial for campers, especially during the May-September camping season when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
What to do
Hiking at Blackwater Falls State Park: The park offers multiple trails ranging from easy walks to moderate hikes with views of the iconic 57-foot waterfall. "The trails are amazing and the gift shop has some interesting goods. The Falls of Elakala is a short walk from the lodge," notes a visitor to Blackwater Falls State Park Campground.
Kayaking at Tygart Lake: The 10-mile-long lake provides excellent paddling opportunities with mountain backdrops. "The lake offers great relaxation and the trails around the lake offer pretty views. Only wish that there were more trails available because it's so beautiful in that area," shares a camper at Tygart Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide excellent opportunities to see local wildlife in their natural habitat. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," notes a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, highlighting the area's abundant wildlife opportunities.
Bluegrass festival experience: If you're visiting in August, the annual Bluegrass Festival at Five River Campground draws international attention. "Nominated this year as one of the five finalists as the best Bluegrass Festivals in the world... Over 3500 festival attendees, 1500 camped at this campground," explains a reviewer about this unique cultural event.
What campers like
Private river access: Waterfront camping allows for easy access to fishing and swimming. "We had a river lot which was beautiful. Restaurant, Shavers Saloon, was walking distance and had full bar with good food," shares a visitor to Revelle's River Resort, which offers yurt accommodations and waterfront camping near Horner.
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the area prioritize cleanliness. "The grounds are beautiful, staff amazing. Store had everything we needed, Bath houses were spotless," notes a camper from Five River Campground, which features yurt camping options just a short drive from Horner.
Diverse accommodation options: The area offers everything from primitive tent sites to full-service yurt camping. "As part of the Elk River Hotel and Café, there are four glamping tents located on the Elk River. Each glamping tent has a sink/small fridge, and coffee maker, a fully plumbed bathroom, and a king or queen-sized bed with linens," describes a visitor to Elk River Hotel and Café.
Proximity to small towns: The charming towns near camping areas provide additional dining and shopping options. "Go into the town of Davis and there is a local brewery and some great food. Sirianni's has the best pizza, pasta and salads you will ever find. Highland market has local raised foods," recommends a Canaan Valley camper.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change quickly. "It also still gets chilly in these mountains during the early summer months... I have mastered the fine art of campsite tarping due to West Virginia camping," advises a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park.
Reservation timing: Popular yurt camping near Horner, West Virginia fills quickly, especially in peak seasons. "We only stayed one night while passing through the area... We stopped though mid week in early May and the park was just about empty," notes a camper at Tygart Lake State Park, suggesting early or mid-week visits for better availability.
Wildlife concerns: Some campgrounds have issues with local wildlife. "There is a HUGE raccoon problem here, even during the day. I wish we were warned ahead of time. Many people bring an extra tent to keep their food in," warns a reviewer at Tygart Lake.
Site selection importance: Not all sites are created equal. "Choose your site wisely! We were in the 2nd loop on site 27. Since it's been raining for a week it was very muddy," advises a Blackwater Falls camper about selecting the best location for your needs.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "We had a great time with family and friends. There's a nice play ground for kids and a kamp k-9 for the dogs," notes a reviewer at Flatwoods KOA, which offers family-oriented yurt camping near Horner, West Virginia.
Swimming options: During summer, swimming provides welcome relief from heat. "Our family loves to camp at this local campground, super clean bathrooms and pool with kids area is so much fun," shares a visitor to Lone Pine Campground, highlighting water recreation options for families.
Bike-friendly areas: Several campgrounds offer safe places for children to ride bikes. "Good shady sites. Good area for kids to ride bikes. Good clean bathroom and campground. Hosts do great job," explains a Bulltown Campground visitor about recreational options for children.
Educational opportunities: The area's nature centers provide learning experiences. "There is a nature center by a small lake. You can fish there & they have kayaks to rent," notes a Blackwater Falls visitor, pointing to educational activities for children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain have uneven sites. "Very unlevel spot. Not sure if they are all like this, but it's a big ugh," warns an RVer at Bulltown Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling equipment.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "Great clean campground with full hookups. Lots of deer to see," confirms a Canaan Valley Resort visitor, noting the convenient amenities for RVers.
Road access considerations: Mountain roads can challenge larger RVs. "Be ready to tow up steep hills throughout this park. You enter the park through a Chevrolet dealership lot and then check in at the Days Inn Hotel," advises a Flatwoods KOA visitor about access considerations.
Winter RV options: Unlike tent camping, some RV sites remain open year-round. "The campground closes in the late fall, but some cabins, and the lodge, are open year-round," notes a Tygart Lake visitor, providing seasonal information valuable for RVers considering off-season yurt camping near Horner.
