Cabin accommodations near Petroleum, West Virginia range from basic to deluxe options within state parks and private campgrounds. The region sits in the Appalachian foothills with elevations between 600-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for campers. Winter cabin rentals typically require early reservations as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Biking rail trails: North Bend Rail Trail offers 72 miles of cycling opportunities accessible from River Run Campground. "This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail. It was easy check in with a friendly staff. Great place to stay with plenty of room to enjoy yourself," notes William B.
Fishing spots: The 300-acre lake at Burr Oak State Park Campground offers bass and catfish opportunities. According to one visitor, "We camped at both Dock 3 and Dock 2 with our dog, those are the only two areas that allow pets. At Dock 3 we were right on the water but dock 2 is probably 200 yards from the water."
Mountain biking: Technical trails await at Mountwood Park, located 15 minutes east of Parkersburg on Route 50. "If bombing mountain bike trails is your thing, then across the highway from the campground is your dream," explains Dave V. The park features varied ability MTB trails for different skill levels.
What campers like
Scenic water views: Waterfront cabin sites at several parks provide direct lake or river access. At Forked Run State Park Campground, "The lake is large and clean, with an awesome new 'water park' opened during the summer," writes one camper. During summer months, water parks with inflatable features attract families.
Historical exploration: Several cabin locations offer access to regional history. "I was fascinated by the museum...how the local town was created during the oil boon and then destroyed by fire...of an enormous wilderness mansion that sat where the campground now sits," writes a visitor about the WV Oil history museum near Mountwood Park.
Privacy options: Cabins at Bigfoot Ridge provide seclusion with themed accommodations. "This yurt is 100% Bigfoot themed and has all the essentials including a shower house with laundry, a creek, and an amazing bed," explains Bethany R. These specialty cabins require advance booking, especially during peak season.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during summer. "We had a wonderful time. We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby," notes Jeremiah S. about his family's experience at River Run Campground.
Facility conditions: Maintenance varies considerably between locations. At Strouds Run State Park Campground, "This is an extremely primitive place that is not run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. It is run by the same woman who runs the boat rentals at several other state parks in SE Ohio- this is her business."
Internet connectivity: Cell service fluctuates throughout the region. At River Run Campground, "Wifi and Verizon cell were both strong. Easy access to the rail trail and close to the river," according to Alicia W., making this location suitable for remote workers needing connectivity while cabin camping.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Several parks offer family-friendly swimming and boating. At Lake Snowden Campground, "There's a nice little beach area along the lake. Several large pavilions. Playground for the kids. During the summer they set up large inflatable slides and create a makeshift lake waterpark!"
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "The park is very quiet. There are a lot of amenities but they need updated. The playgrounds need replaced. The activities building had a pool and game room area, which we used a lot," notes a family staying at Kountry Resort.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing and educational programs enhance family stays. "The Nelsonville Music and Arts Festival is one of my favorite summer festivals of all time. It is usually the first week of June," writes one visitor about events at Lake Snowden Campground, providing a cultural opportunity for families.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many cabin areas share facilities with RV sites, and space can be limited. "Sites are very bad for tent camping and not the best for RV's. Back ins are short and most sites have no level ground even for the picnic table or fire ring," notes a visitor to Forked Run State Park.
Hookup reliability: Electric service varies by location. At Stonewall Resort State Park Campground, "What you get for the extra cash is a well-staffed, beautifully-maintained resort with every imaginable amenity including boating, fishing, swimming, a Palmer golf course, disc golf and tennis."
Seasonal considerations: Winter access to cabins may require different preparation. According to one visitor, "We actually stayed at the lodge and it was lovely. We would hike around during the day and swim inside as it was before spring" at Burr Oak State Park, highlighting winter cabin options when RV camping becomes challenging.
