The Volga region of West Virginia sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation in the Appalachian foothills, experiencing moderate summers and cold winters with significant snowfall. The area's camping options span from riverside primitive sites to upscale yurts and glamping tents, particularly along the various river forks that create the region's distinctive watershed. Weather patterns can shift quickly, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months.
What to do
Fishing at Tygart Lake: The 10-mile lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for multiple species. "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!!!" notes one Tygart Lake State Park visitor.
Hiking mountain trails: Blackwater Falls State Park Campground features several impressive hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "There's something to do for people of any activity level. Nearby towns of Davis and Thomas are so lovely and have charm out the wazoo," reports a camper who appreciates the park's accessibility.
Visit historic sites: The area contains several Civil War-era locations worth exploring. "I participated and help teach a leadership camp for middle schoolers. The staff was great and the facilities were exactly what we were looking for," mentions a visitor to Stonewall Resort State Park Campground, where history programs are occasionally offered.
River recreation: Multiple access points allow for kayaking, tubing and paddling. "The Shavers Fork river (a Cheat River tributary) is also ideal for rafting, tubing and paddling. Most will take out 11 miles downriver before class 3 rapids (and higher) begin," explains a reviewer about river options near local campgrounds.
What campers like
Privacy options: While some glamping areas near Volga are designed for socializing, others offer seclusion. "We backed up to a large field (spot 3) and had a great view of the river! I didn't feel crowded at all!!" reports a camper at Five River Campground.
Cleanliness of facilities: Many glamping sites maintain high standards for bathhouses and common areas. "The grounds are well-maintained and manicured as are all WV State Parks. Trails are scattered throughout the park, some are foot traffic only, others permit bicycles," notes a visitor to Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent opportunities to observe native animals. "Deer meander through the primitive tent sites with their fawns each morning and evening," describes a camper, highlighting one of the natural attractions for glamping enthusiasts near Volga.
Year-round options: Unlike basic camping, luxury tent accommodations often include heating options. "The campground 'Comfort Station,' is a restroom/shower/laundry and soda machine building. The gender specific restroom/shower rooms each have two wooden stalled modern facility stools, two shower stalls," details a reviewer about amenities that support extended-season glamping.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly in this region. "We spent three days in June and experienced afternoon rain showers daily, but arranged our hikes and bikes around them. It also still gets chilly in these mountains during the early summer months," warns a camper familiar with local conditions.
Reservation requirements: Most upscale glamping sites near Volga require advance booking, especially during summer months and fall foliage season. Coopers Rock State Forest fills quickly during peak periods. "We stayed here 9/2018 at site #10 and can't wait to return. There is a small campground just by the entrance that has a small store and electric sites with RV hookups," shares a visitor.
Varying cell coverage: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations. "We had cell service since we were right outside of town which is hard to find in WV," notes a camper about one property, while others report limited or no service at more remote sites.
Seasonal facility limitations: Not all amenities operate year-round. "The grounds are beautiful, staff amazing. Store had everything we needed, Bath houses were spotless," reports a summer visitor, but winter glampers should verify which facilities remain open during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several glamping locations near Volga offer dedicated family programming. "A wonderful park nearby that has a walking/biking trail, splash pad, and a large playground," mentions a visitor to Bulltown Campground, highlighting infrastructure beyond just camping.
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. "We saw deer and a skunk came up to our site twice," notes a camper, underscoring the importance of proper food storage and waste disposal when glamping with children.
Swimming options: Water access varies significantly between sites. "We went swimming in lake two days and drove down to Flatwoods for some of the best ice cream you can find at The Spot," shares a family who enjoyed combining outdoor recreation with treats.
Educational opportunities: Several glamping locations feature nature centers or interpretive programs. "The park overall is absolutely gorgeous. There's something to do for people of any activity level," observes a visitor about facilities that complement luxury camping with learning experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Not all glamping sites have equal amenities or views. "I'd recommend sites 1-5, 20, and 39," suggests an experienced camper at Flatwoods KOA, pointing out premium locations within the property.
Hookup considerations: Utility access varies even at developed glamping sites. "Full hookup available & right by Shavers Fork people fish right there," notes a reviewer about accommodations that support both luxury tents and RVs.
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions demand proper equipment. "A huge storm rolled through with 40/50 mph winds. We had a little heads up thanks to buying a day of WiFi but most people were caught flat footed. We saw 30 plus awnings and canopies destroyed," reports a camper who witnessed the impact of unexpected weather.
Off-season opportunities: Glamping near Volga offers unique winter experiences with fewer crowds. "This is a resort with a very nice campground. The bathrooms are clean and they have nice showers," describes a visitor, highlighting amenities that make shoulder season visits comfortable.
