Cabin camping near Maysville, West Virginia offers visitors access to the scenic Potomac Highlands region with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 4,800 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below 25°F in this mountainous area, while summer temperatures typically hover between 70-85°F. The region experiences variable weather patterns with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer camping season.
What to do
Hiking at Dolly Sods: Just a short drive from cabin accommodations, this wilderness area offers spectacular trails. "From Canaan Valley Resort State Park there are soooo many places to visit. Bear Rock and Dolly Sods for beautiful views and delicious berry picking (take empty clean milk jugs for easy picking buckets). Also great hiking here," explains a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Multiple cabin locations provide direct river access for anglers. "Only 10 sites right on the river. Great fishing. Very quiet. Full hookups for RVs including cable. A little pricey for the area. I would stay here again. Easy access to Dolly Sods, short drive to Seneca Rocks and Spruce Knob. Did I mention access to multiple areas for great trout fishing," notes a camper who stayed at Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort.
Scenic chairlift rides: Some resorts offer chairlift access to mountain views. "There is a scenic chair lift you can ride to the top of the ski mountain and hike back down to the bottom. There are several activities at the resort, something for everyone."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike the more developed resorts, some cabin areas offer more seclusion. "If you're looking for quiet and privacy, this is the place. They laid out the sites so that you're not side by side. They are all on an angle which moves you further away from anyone on both sides," writes a visitor to Middle Ridge Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The chance to see native animals enhances the cabin camping experience. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," notes one camper. Another mentions, "There is a ton of wildlife in this state park! Deer galore! Someone saw a black bear on the trail (we did not)! Beautiful birds with tons of color!"
Waterfront locations: Several cabin sites offer direct water access. "Location is prime!! Loved the RV sites right on the water. Perfect if you are a trout fisherman or hiker. Trail head to Chimney Rock is 2 minutes from camp site and Seneca Rock is about 20 minutes away," shares a visitor at Smoke Hole Caverns.
What you should know
Variable bathroom facilities: Comfort levels differ significantly between cabin locations. At Abrams Creek Campground and Retreat Center, "The only concern noted was the bath house. It was poorly lighted and made of what looked like left over materials. The gentleman that checked us in was a wealth of knowledge. He told us all about the campground and told us they offer an outdoor shower. Their were two outdoor shower stalls which were shower curtains next to the shower house."
Reservation timing: Peak season books quickly, especially for premium cabin locations. Most locations require advance planning, with summer weekends filling 3-6 months ahead.
Cell service limitations: Many cabin areas have limited connectivity. "Starlink was sketchy at best, Verizon had one bar and slightly usable, ATT was best with a couple of bars and ok speeds," reports a Middle Ridge Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with play areas: Some locations offer added attractions for children. "Our visit was great, the staff was friendly, the sites were all clean. We went in Aug 2017 and the weather was lovely. Our site was full hook up with a backyard and plenty of room to roam and play!"
Consider swimming access: Lakes provide welcome relief during hot summer months. "The outside pool is large and heated. There is an inside pool and hot tub, small fee for camping guest," mentions a visitor at Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring layered clothing even in summer. "We spent three days in June and experienced afternoon rain showers daily, but arranged our hikes and bikes around them."
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Mountain roads can present challenges for larger rigs. "Road to access the campground was good with some tight turns up the hill the last couple of miles. The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer," advises an RVer who visited Middle Ridge Campground.
Water pressure issues: Some sites experience inconsistent utilities. "Water pressure was just a bit weak and used our water tank and pump during our stay. Best we could get for water pressure out of the hose was 25-20 psi. No issues with power or sewer."
Check site specifications carefully: Not all cabin and RV sites are created equal. "Primitive tent sites don't have water or electric and parking is roadside but you are within 100 yards of the Comfort Station. The three tent only sites have only been around for a couple years...but sites 1 and 2 are in a nice grassy area away from the RV loop 2."
