Glamping accommodations near Monongah, West Virginia benefit from the region's Appalachian elevation ranging from 1,000-2,500 feet, creating mild summers averaging 75°F and crisp falls with early color changes by mid-September. The varied terrain offers both open meadow and dense forest settings, with most glamping sites concentrated along the eastern ridges where cell service remains more reliable than western valleys.
What to do
Mountain biking at Coopers Rock: Multiple trails through Coopers Rock State Forest accommodate different skill levels, with beginners enjoying the gradual Rock Maze trail. "There is a playground for the kids and plenty of room for them to play. My only complaint is the firewood available to purchase. It's a small bundle for the price," notes reviewer Kevin H.
Kayaking on Tygart Lake: The 10-mile lake provides calm waters perfect for paddling with several designated launch points for visitors. A reviewer at Tygart Lake State Park Campground mentions, "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!"
Photography at Blackwater Falls: The 53-foot waterfall creates stunning imagery in all seasons, with prime morning light between 8-10am. "This is one of my absolute favorite places in WV to camp... Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it! Make sure you visit Pendleton Point for a great vista," advises Kellie A.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many glamping spots near Monongah feature purpose-built platforms to ensure level setups. At Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park, "The campground itself was buggy, not well maintained, and covered in poison ivy. The bathhouses themselves were great. The roads were torn up due to the paving project, and the playground area did not look to be maintained."
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses with consistent hot water are common at premium glamping locations throughout the area. One visitor to Swallow Falls State Park Campground said, "I gave it a 5 star for many reasons. First the campground is clean and made us feel like we were in a forest not just a campground. Secondly, the tent sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning hours (5:30-7:30am) offer the best chances to spot local fauna around glamping sites. "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya! Also the bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms plus the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting," shares Emily M. about Rhododendron Camping Area.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: The region experiences rapid temperature drops after sunset, often 15-20 degrees cooler than daytime highs. When staying at Five River Campground, one camper noted, "The river melody is loud enough to drown out most other distant noises. Our stay was peaceful and serene."
Reservation timing: Most glamping sites require booking 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends, with greater availability midweek. "Just stayed here for one night with our 5th wheel when traveling home. I wasn't too impressed. I thought it was expensive. The site was difficult to back into because everything was so narrow," reports a visitor to Stonewall Resort State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is essential as raccoons are active at several area campgrounds. "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. Our dog barked the entire night as the racoons kept coming up to our site and even our tent," warns a Tygart Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly hikes: Several trails under one mile with minimal elevation gain suit young children. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage. However, the parking lots and trailheads were PACKED on the weekend, so if you're a day tripper, get there early!" advises Jen V. about Swallow Falls.
Playground access: Multiple glamping options include dedicated play areas within sight of campsites. "There are many tent sites at this location, as well as RV lodging. There is a pond you can swim and or fish at. There are both, modern and rustic cabins to rent," states Wes O. about Chestnut Ridge Regional Park.
Wading spots: Several creeks offer safe water play with depths under 12 inches during summer months. "Trails to lakeside/shore where campers do swim although no swimming from shore is 'not' allowed. Just be respectful and clean up after yourselves and usually no drama involved," notes a reviewer at Tygart Lake.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites (30-amp) are limited at most public campgrounds near Monongah, requiring reservations 4+ months ahead. A camper at Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground shares, "This site is fully gravel, so that's a bit of a turn off for us. The water pressure here is very weak, but there is a shower house that is kept fairly clean for you to use."
Road considerations: Several access roads have 10% grades or tight turns requiring caution with larger rigs. "The sites are spaced out. Water pressure was good. Bath house was clean. The grounds were very clean and well kept. Staff was friendly. Quiet and peaceful. Pet friendly. Dump station on grounds and easy access," notes a reviewer at Chestnut Ridge Regional Park.
Site selection: Corner sites typically offer more privacy and space for outdoor setups at most area campgrounds. "We stayed on site#40 in the Garrett Loop. It is one of only three FHU sites in this loop. The site was level, spacious, beautifully shaded, and convenient to the bath house," recommends Jen V. about Swallow Falls.