Best Campgrounds near Ethel, WV

Camping near Ethel, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Kanawha State Forest. One visitor mentioned, "This state forest is expansive with lots of trails popular with mountain bikers." The trails are great for both hiking and biking, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Fishing and Swimming: At Lake Stephens Campground, you can enjoy fishing or swimming in the lake. A camper shared, "The roads and views of the lake are beautiful," highlighting the scenic beauty of the area.
• Wildlife Watching: Chief Logan State Park Campground is known for its wildlife. One reviewer noted, "I spotted dozens of does, bucks, and fawns during my stay," making it a great place for nature lovers.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Twin Falls Resort State Park Campground said, "The bathhouse was very buggy, but the campground was well taken care of with plenty of trails to hike."
• Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Little Beaver State Park Campground, a camper remarked, "The office was staffed with a friendly lady; she gave us a map with available sites marked."
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Rifrafters Campground said, "The campground was very peaceful and shaded," making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Grandview Sandbar Campground, have minimal facilities. A camper noted, "The bathrooms are very old and the pits stink throughout the campground."
• Road Conditions: Accessing some campgrounds can be tricky. A visitor to Glade Creek Campground mentioned, "It is about a 7-mile ride down a gravel road," so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
• Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is abundant, it's important to be cautious. A camper at Pappy's Creekside Camp advised, "There are reports from others of safety concerns," so stay aware of your surroundings.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. At Kanawha State Forest, one reviewer mentioned, "The campground does have playgrounds, showers, electric hook-ups, and a dump station," making it suitable for families.
• Water Fun: Choose campgrounds near water for swimming and fishing. A camper at Lake Stephens Campground said, "The beach with a sectioned-off swimming area is great for kids."
• Plan for Bugs: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Twin Falls Resort State Park Campground noted, "The weather was hot and buggy when we visited."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Chief Logan State Park Campground mentioned, "There are 26 level RV camping spots with water and electricity at all sites."
• Be Ready for Tight Turns: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A visitor at Rifrafters Campground said, "The area is very hilly and the campground is no exception," so take it slow.
• Use Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with dump stations. A camper at Lake Stephens Campground appreciated the availability of a sanitary dump, making it easier for RVers to manage waste.

Camping around Ethel, West Virginia, offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly activities to serene nature spots. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!