Cabin accommodations near Monongahela National Forest range from primitive to fully equipped lodging options across several state parks and forests. For lodging in forested settings, Kumbrabow State Forest features rustic CCC-built cabins without electricity or water but equipped with gas lights, gas refrigerators, and wood fireplaces. Riverside Campground at Watoga State Park offers rental cabins positioned along the Greenbrier River with convenient access to paddling and fishing opportunities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Douthat State Park Campground, anglers can purchase daily fishing passes for $8 to access stocked trout waters. "It's $8 a day for a fishing pass and you can rent John boats or kayaks here as well. In season the lake and creek are stocked with plenty of Rainbow trout. You can keep them for dinner if you like!" notes John R.
Hiking trails: Holly River State Park Campground provides access to numerous waterfalls and trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "The Potato Knob trail is awesome...plan it for a day...bring a full hydration pack and trekking poles...it is strenuous but rewarding," advises Dave V. The park contains a total of four waterfalls to explore.
Rail trail access: Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park connects directly to the 80-mile Greenbrier River Trail. "We rode our bikes to the trail. Hiking, and Arboretum trail, so much to do. Cranberry Wilderness is less than 30 mins away. Great hiking, the best Visitor's center, with the nicest folks," states Marcandpatti B.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Seneca State Forest offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities throughout the forest. "Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures. Short drive or hike to Lake with boat rentals and fishing," reports Mike C. about his July stay at non-electric Site 4.
Quiet wilderness: Kumbrabow State Forest Mill Creek Campground features 13 secluded campsites surrounded by forest and riverside locations. "This campground in the Kumbrabow State forest has 13 campsites that are pretty secluded and private. They are all surrounded by woods and a river and a few on the river," notes Vanessa C.
Creekside camping: Many campsites at Holly River State Park provide access to flowing water. "There was a creek running by most of the sites. Would definitely return," explains Dan N. The sound of rushing water creates a natural white noise that enhances the camping experience, particularly at sites positioned along the Left Fork River.
What you should know
No cell service: Communication limitations are common throughout the region. At Beaver Creek Campground — Watoga State Park, "It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it," notes Julie.
Limited supplies: Remote cabin locations require advance preparation. "There are no grocery stores anywhere near the campsite and we didn't have any food with us. The firewood is unbundled and there are no showers," reports Evan G. about his stay at Seneca State Forest.
Weather considerations: Rain is common in the mountain environment. "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round," explains Elaine L. about Holly River State Park. Pack additional tarps to cover equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Beaver Creek Campground provides safe water access for children. "Lovely campground. Not too noisy and gorgeous nature. Perfect combo of shade and sun with deers grazing right next to your tent!!" shares Amelie B. Riverside access allows for tubing, swimming, and exploration.
Kid-friendly amenities: Holly River State Park includes recreational facilities beyond natural features. "This park has lots of hiking trails, waterfalls, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy," describes Hannah V.
Campsite selection: Choose sites strategically based on family needs. "Along Allegheny Trail and Greenbrier Trail, lots of wildflowers, dense forest, rolling hills, streams. Some campsites are by a playground, avoid those if you don't have kids yourself," advises Dan N. about Beaver Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Watoga State Park accommodates various RV sizes but requires planning. "Large sites, clean bath house and showers. $52/night with tax. 110/30 amp electric at site. No sewer, no water at site. Water available, sewer dump station available," reports Danny M.
Off-season benefits: Shoulder season stays offer greater availability and fewer crowds. "We stayed here 4 days and 3 nights in November. We use a teardrop camper so we appreciated the water and electric hookup (although we disconnected the water at night to prevent freezing)," explains Diane P. about Douthat State Park.
Road considerations: Access roads to some cabin areas require careful navigation. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns Jeremy W. regarding Douthat State Park Campground.
