Camping sites near New Cumberland, West Virginia offer diverse terrain options with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The Ohio River Valley location creates a microclimate with typically higher humidity in summer months and occasional fog in spring and fall mornings. Several campgrounds remain operational from early April through October, though select locations like Guilford Lake and Salem-Lisbon KOA maintain year-round availability.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kennedy Marina Park provides Ohio River access for anglers during its May 15 to September 15 season. Raccoon Creek State Park offers multiple fishing spots with one visitor noting, "A great place to take the dog out to swim and chase geese and ducks. A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun."
Hiking trails: Beaver Creek State Park Campground features access to North Country National Scenic Trail. One winter visitor shared, "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop."
Water recreation: Guilford Lake State Park Campground provides kayak and paddleboard rentals directly from their camp store. A camper mentioned, "The small boating facilities and small boat ramp were fantastic. The lake was very very pleasant."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature bird watching opportunities. Raccoon Creek State Park hosts diverse wildlife, with one visitor sharing: "This is my go to spot for camping when I have to just get away from it all. The hiking trails are in excellent condition and the park keeps them clear of fallen debris."
What campers like
Private tent sites: Tomlinson Run State Park Campground offers secluded tent camping options. A camper stated, "Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road / cul-de-sac."
Free camping options: Hidden Hollow Campground in Fernwood State Forest requires no fee. According to a visitor, "Self-register with cards located at pit latrine building. 14 days every 30. No problem getting 40' skoolie in and parked in mostly level spots."
Waterfront camping: Several campgrounds feature lakeside sites. At Guilford Lake, a camper observed, "The camp sites on the water are very spacious, but the ones on the inside of the loop, not so much. But if you're camping with a group the inner loop can be a lot of fun."
Clean facilities: Jefferson Lake State Park maintains well-kept vault toilets. One visitor commented, "Enjoyed fairly level pads, very clean vault toilets, beautiful grounds and walking trails."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Austin Lake RV Park has virtually no coverage. A camper warned, "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier. Be advised it will seem a little sketchy getting in. The road dead-ends into the campground and it is all downhill getting there."
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Raccoon Creek, a camper advised, "If you are like me and crave privacy, avoid. The bathroom was rather dirty also."
Seasonal variations: Weather can significantly affect camping experience. At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "Perfect for our little Scamp trailer. Only 5 big electric sites, no showers or potable water. As a result it was so peaceful! We loved our rainy stay."
Water restrictions: Some campgrounds limit water access. At Jefferson Lake, one camper shared, "All water fill up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Salem-Lisbon Ohio KOA offers extensive family amenities. One visitor shared, "This was an awesome place for a winter trip! The tent sites were big and right on the lake. Everyone was so kind!"
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer water recreation. At Austin Lake, a camper noted, "TONS of stuff to do here. Inflatable slides and such in the lake, hiking trials, playgrounds, all sorts of stuff."
Wildlife education: Several parks provide nature observation opportunities. At Raccoon Creek State Park, a first-time camper shared, "I had the most wonderful time on my first tent camping at Racoon Creek. We made a fire, hiked by the moonlight and swam at the warm lake at night."
Budget considerations: While some campgrounds charge additional fees, others offer free options. At Hidden Hollow Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Camp fire rings and picnic tables at most sites. Hand pump available, grey water pits and trash cans available."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Jefferson Lake has limited but well-maintained electric sites. A visitor reported, "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites."
Hookup locations: Some campgrounds have awkwardly positioned hookups. At Jefferson Lake, an RVer warned, "Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. With Austin Lake, one RVer advised, "Take your time and all will be just fine. Our rig is 39' & 16K. 4wd low helps, not cause you need 4wd just for the lower gears."
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round. At Getaway Beaver Creek, a visitor commented, "Getaway Beaver Creek is one of the best cabin sites I have ever been to. The cabins are great and the grounds are clean."
