River Run Campground within North Bend State Park sits along the North Fork of the Hughes River with campsites positioned for varying levels of privacy. The 300-acre North Bend Lake offers fishing for bass and catfish, while the park's elevation ranges from 650 to 900 feet above sea level. Seasonal changes affect camping conditions, with fall bringing colorful foliage and spring creating muddy trail conditions around Petroleum.
What to do
Biking the rail trail: Access the North Bend Rail Trail directly from River Run Campground, which offers perfect positioning for cyclists. "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. The trail features 35 bridges and 11 tunnels including one that's a quarter-mile long.
Paddling opportunities: Explore the calm waters at North Bend Lake or the river that runs through the camping area. "I paddled on the North Bend Lake which was extremely peaceful and beautiful, with the colors of fall surrounding me on all sides. I brought my own kayak, but they had boats for rent," writes Jennifer B. Water access varies between campgrounds, with some offering direct river or lake frontage.
Mountain biking: Mountwood Park Family Campground connects directly to trail systems designed for mountain bikes. The park maintains trails for various skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Rangers can provide trail maps showing routes for mountain bikers wanting to explore the forested hills surrounding the campsites.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Visitors appreciate sites with room to spread out at River Run Campground. Julie C. mentions, "We were at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! The site was mostly flat where we parked the camper and very close to the bathhouse." Regular campers recommend specific sites for their privacy and views.
Clean facilities: Cokeley Campground at North Bend State Park maintains well-kept bathhouses. "Sites have electricity and water; dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration," reports James P. Bathhouses include toilets, showers, and some campgrounds offer laundry facilities.
Natural setting: The secluded environment at Backwoods Campground & Winery creates a peaceful atmosphere. "So peaceful, beautiful views! Always have a good time, and always love enjoying time with family and friends and time together," says Brittany R. The campground sits in a quieter area away from the more developed parks.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rainy conditions can affect camping comfort in the low-lying areas. "Most the roadside tent sites are level, but sit at a lower level, so when it rains (and it does in WV)...it gets soggy," warns Dave V. about River Run. Plan for drainage issues by selecting higher elevation sites when possible.
Campsite selection tips: Not all sites offer equal amenities or positioning. At North Bend State Park, "The coveted RV/Camper sites are along the bank of the river and offer more distance between neighbors. On the inner ring, a split rail fence separates neighbors," shares Dave V. Reservations are recommended for premium riverside spots.
Cell service variations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Kinderhook Trailhead, campers report "perfect AT&T and Sprint cell service" according to one reviewer. Other campgrounds have limited or no service, especially in deeper valley areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "The Park is great and we have stayed at lodge 4 times before but this was first camping trip. We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby," shares Jeremiah S. about River Run Campground.
Swimming options: During summer months, the pool at North Bend State Park provides a popular cooling spot. As Jeremiah notes, "There wasn't easy river access from the campground but we climbed down the hill with no problem and waded the stream for hours." The lake also offers swimming opportunities when temperatures rise.
Kid-friendly activities: Beyond water recreation, families can enjoy numerous land-based activities. "Plenty to do around the park - biking the rail trails, hiking, fishing, basketball, and a nice playground, to name a few!" mentions Julie C. from her stay at River Run. Rangers often offer scheduled programs for children during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Arrival routes: When traveling to Forked Run State Park Campground, consider your approach carefully. "Do not follow GPS to get to North Bend SP (Cokeley or River Run) Call the park office directly. GPS took us up some nasty horse-shoe hills! Park personnel said some GPS will bring campers up a bad gravel road!" advises Kim M. Larger rigs should verify access routes.
Campsite leveling: Many sites require leveling equipment for RVs. "Campsites are blacktop with water and electric, apparently for large RV/Campers," notes one camper about Cokeley Campground. Bring appropriate blocks and leveling tools as terrain throughout the region is naturally hilly.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the Petroleum area operate seasonally. "Sites have electricity and water; dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration," notes James P. about Cokeley Campground. Call ahead during shoulder seasons to confirm which facilities remain open as weather conditions change.