Campgrounds near Red House, West Virginia provide access to diverse recreational opportunities along the Kanawha River and surrounding lakes. The region sits within the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging between 580-1,100 feet in most camping areas. Weather remains mild in spring and fall, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F with high humidity. Several campgrounds offer year-round access despite seasonal closures at state park facilities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Statts Mills Campground, campers can access O'brien Lake directly from their sites. "There seems to be an abundance of deer in the area. Sites have water and electric," notes one visitor. The parking lot adjacent to camping areas serves as a boat launch point.
Kayaking: The local waterways provide excellent paddling routes for various skill levels. A visitor to Saint Albans Roadside Park explains, "For kayakers like me, you should bare left at the bottom of the ramp and head toward the Coal River where you can enjoy a nice, peaceful paddle without the fear of being swamped or crushed." The area hosts annual paddling events including Yak Fest in mid-June.
Swimming: While some lakes restrict swimming, many campgrounds offer alternatives. At Moxley Branch Campground in Beech Fork State Park, visitors note: "If swimming in the lake isn't your thing then the beech fork pool is not even a min away, nice big pool with 2 diving boards and also a kiddie pool for the wee little ones." Access to pools may require additional fees beyond camping costs.
What campers like
Lake views: Many campsites offer direct water access. A camper at Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds shares: "We were placed in a pull thru on the lake. What a spot!! We watched the resident swan swim around the fountain and I got to play with my camera perfecting my skills with day and night shots of the Chapel."
Convenience to supplies: Several campgrounds provide easy access to necessities. At Saint Albans Roadside Park, a visitor noted: "Directly across from a grocery store, pet store, and auto supply store so great resupply stop! And free electric! Clean playground also."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports abundant wildlife. At Beech Fork State Park, a camper observed: "This campground offers a handful of trails easy to moderate. Pretty lake with ducks everywhere, as well as geese. Saw many deer through out our stay, even some beaters. Oh and it was butterfly mating season."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. For Kanawha State Forest, a visitor cautions: "The GPS led us up a gravel road with no signs for miles. Internet and cell service cut out within a mile up that road and we were not sure we were going the right way. The sights are on top of windy uphill mountain roads."
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between locations. Regarding Krodel Park Campground, one camper notes: "The biggest problem with this campground was the bathroom. It was one of the worst I've seen. No windows and just a single bare incandescent bulb for illumination. Reminded me of a gas station toilet."
Cell service: Connectivity remains limited at many campsites. A visitor to Beech Fork mentioned: "Verizon does not work here but ATT does. There is wifi in the main campground at the boathouse but that is all."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, playgrounds provide important recreation options. At Krodel Park Campground, a visitor notes: "Very nice campground with playground, pool, and lake all sites are full hook up the sites are kinda close in my opinion but we loved our stay and plan to return."
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds maintain good security. A camper at Saint Albans Roadside Park comments: "Wonderful overnight spot. Free electricity (30 amp). 3 spots available, first come first serve, no reservation. 2 nights max." Many campgrounds have regular staff patrols, especially during peak season.
Rental equipment: Several parks offer recreational equipment rentals. At Moxley Branch, a visitor shared: "Rental kayaks and paddle boats are available, and a swimming pool and exercise course as well. If you choose a site on the water, ducks may well waddle into your camp looking for a handout."
Tips from RVers
Site length: RV sites vary significantly in size across the region. At Huntington Fox Fire KOA, a visitor noted their site features: "50 amp hook-up, water, sewer" but cautioned about "gravel pad, sites close together." For larger rigs, calling ahead about specific site dimensions is recommended.
Hookup placement: Some campgrounds have unusual utility arrangements. One KOA visitor observed: "The hookups are a little strange. You share pedestals in many of the sites. And the arrangement is a little strange but it works."
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. At Rippling Waters, a camper shared: "The site was fairly level, had to use a few blocks on the driver side. The water is pretty strong so you may want to use a regulator. Water also had a strong odor of chlorine."
