Camping options near Petroleum, West Virginia include established campgrounds and rustic sites within driving distance of this small community. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 800 feet elevation, the area experiences typical seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging in the 80s and winters dropping below freezing. Several campgrounds within a 45-minute drive offer both primitive camping and more developed facilities with hookups.
What to Do
Disc golf courses: Forked Run State Park Campground offers an on-site disc golf course that's popular with visitors. "There is plenty to do with fishing and hiking. A lot of people in the area mainly go for swimming or to play frisbee golf," notes Andrew S., who has visited Forked Run State Park Campground since childhood.
Archery range: Hook Lake Campground provides target practice opportunities for bow hunters and archery enthusiasts. "There's also an archery range but I did not go and check that out as I do not have a bow and arrow," mentions one camper at Hook Lake Campground, which is part of the Jesse Owens State Park system.
Boating with restrictions: Several lakes in the region allow boating with specific regulations. "On the border with West Virginia...we spent most of the time on the water (there's a power limit on the boats) but the campsites were nice in a simple kind of way," reports Dan N. about his experience at Forked Run State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and streams provide fishing access for different skill levels. "The lake and the beach are very nice! Sometimes the water isn't very clean. The trails are worth it though!" writes Lucille W. about Strouds Run State Park Campground.
What Campers Like
Unique glamping accommodations: Beyond the Bigfoot-themed yurt camping near Petroleum, West Virginia visitors can find other distinctive options. "Great cabin with a lot of room for family. Easy access to the water for a fun-filled day off boating," writes Lauri C. about the cabins at Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Free camping areas: Some locations offer no-cost camping with basic amenities. "This is a free campsite that was part of the AEP reclamation lands. The campsites do not have any camp stores, no fire wood to buy, no water (so make sure you pack what you will need), and they do have a campground host," explains Kenpocentaur K. about Hook Lake Campground.
Quiet weekday visits: Many campgrounds in the region have significantly reduced occupancy during weekdays. "Very hot outside so aware that many sites do not have shade. Camp store people friendly, made a site change for us. In the 90's so very few spots taken!" reports Tracie M. about her summer visit to Burr Oak State Park.
Lake views: Several campgrounds offer waterfront or water-view sites. "The campsite was big enough for 3 6-person tents but most sites are smaller and fit 1-2 4-person tents. Good trails to hike and wonderful scenery," shares Devin C. about their experience at Hook Lake Campground.
What You Should Know
Varied bathroom facilities: Campground restroom quality differs significantly across locations. "Showers were clean but only central and shared between all loops," notes Shane T. about Forked Run State Park, while others mention vault toilets that "look like they have not been hosed out since the 70's" at other facilities.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty or nonexistent connectivity. "No cell reception unless you have satellite," warns Devin C. about Hook Lake Campground, while The Wandering Shores reports, "While most of the sites at Hook Lake do not have cell coverage we were lucky enough to find that at the 'top of the hill' we were able to get both att and verizon at around 2 bars."
Water quality concerns: Some locations report issues with water supply. "Make sure you run the water lines to clear them out before hooking up. The water quality is very poor," advises Laura H. about her stay at Flatwoods KOA.
Inconsistent site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain that can challenge setup. "Not sure if they are all like this, but it's a big ugh... trash pick up is 1/day & 1 bag of trash," notes Snooz H. about Flatwoods KOA, while others mention similar challenges at different locations.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide play areas for children. "This campground has been around since the 1800s. 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," shares Jeremiah S. about Kountry Resort Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for local wildlife encounters, particularly at night. "The raccoons were a little too close for comfort in the evening make sure you lock your food and trash in your car at night," advises Devin C. about their Hook Lake experience.
Nearby towns for supplies: Know where to restock if needed. "McConnelsville is about 20 min away for all your gas, food (Kroger) and propane," notes The Wandering Shores about resources near Hook Lake, while others mention Marietta as another option within driving distance.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer lake swimming with beach areas. "The park itself is clean, but the facilities are dated. Shower house was OK, toilets are primitive," explains Bobbi M. about Forked Run State Park, which offers swimming among its activities.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose appropriate spots based on rig size and leveling needs. "I chose a site on a hill that I was able to get my 40+ rig into, I was all by myself with a great view," shares James D. about Hook Lake Campground, adding "Both of the Camp Grounds mentioned there is no danger of getting a big rig into and not out of so don't be afraid."
Hookup availability: Plan for varied utility access across campgrounds. "Large sites. Great staff. Absolutely love this place. Slow pace and quiet," reports James P. about his experience at Ashland RV Park, which offers full hookups.
Steep access roads: Be prepared for challenging terrain when entering some campgrounds. "We visited this park for the 4th of July, which made it very busy, but it was still very quiet. Be ready to tow up steep hills throughout this park," warns Laura H. about Flatwoods KOA.
