Glamping options near Richwood, West Virginia provide access to the Monongahela National Forest and surrounding wilderness areas. The region sits at elevations between 2,300-4,000 feet with terrain characterized by steep mountains, dense forests, and numerous streams and rivers. During summer months, temperatures range from 55-85°F with significant temperature drops at night, even in July and August.
What to Do
Hiking the Cranberry Wilderness: Located approximately 30 minutes from Richwood, trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. "We stayed at Watoga State Park because it is close to Greenbrier River Trail and I wanted to bike that trail. However, I found that this park is absolutely wonderful even without being close to Greenbrier River Trail," notes a visitor to Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park.
Fishing in Williams River: Multiple fishing access points with native trout populations require a West Virginia fishing license. "I love these sites and I am just putting this out there I am against camping in an RV or 'glamping' I prefer a good ole tent and fire and not having electricity," shares a camper at Williams River Sites, who appreciated being "by the river with both of these sites so if you like to swim that's a plus."
Visiting historic gristmill: The reconstructed mill at Babcock State Park offers photography opportunities and historical exhibits. "This building and surrounding stone structures, retaining walls, and staircases were built by the CCC and are magnificent and in great shape. The beautiful gift shop was once a former park restaurant of a bygone era," describes a visitor to Babcock State Park Campground.
What Campers Like
River access for recreation: Direct water access for swimming, fishing, and paddling without crowds. A camper at Riverside Campground reports, "We loved our experience here! The river is right at the back of our site. People were floating and fishing and paddling."
Dark skies for stargazing: Minimal light pollution allows exceptional night sky viewing in many campgrounds. "Clear skies and a decent bathhouse" were highlighted by a regular visitor to Beaver Creek Campground who has "stayed here at least a dozen times over the years."
Wildlife sightings: Deer frequently visit campsites at dawn and dusk. "Lovely campground. Not too noisy and gorgeous nature... Perfect combo of shade and sun with deers grazing right next to your tent!!" mentions a Beaver Creek Campground visitor.
What You Should Know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from poor to nonexistent at most campgrounds. "Note: It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it," explains a camper at Riverside Campground.
Temperature fluctuations: Evening temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees from daytime highs, even in summer. "The temperature got down to 30 degrees and frost covered everything," warns a spring visitor to Babcock State Park Campground.
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have significant variation between sites. "Gravel sites, clean bath house and showers. $52/night with tax. 110/30 amp electric at site. No sewer, no water at site. Water available, sewer dump station available. Has sites along the river," notes a Riverside Campground visitor.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for easier supervision. "Our campsite was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site," shares a visitor to Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Pack extra layers: Night temperatures require warm clothing even in summer months. "We camped at site 21, which was the middle of a loop and it was space and flat. It had another site next to it but it was further apart than other sites," mentions a family who visited Babcock State Park in October.
Consider cabin options: Alternative to tent camping during unpredictable weather. "Our cabin was pet friendly, clean, well stocked kitchen, COMFORTABLE DOUBLE BEDS, firewood, it was excellent. We had the best experience!" reports a Babcock State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "Limited large rig sites and roadways are very narrow," cautions an RV camper at Babcock State Park Campground.
Water access planning: Many sites lack water hookups. "Be prepared to dry camp as there are no water hookups. That would be the only negative for us," notes an RV owner who stayed at Adventures on the Gorge during Memorial Day weekend.
Arrive early: Limited availability for larger rigs at most campgrounds. "Electric back in site. Water and bathhouse available across the road in the other part of the camp ground. Unusual set up," explains a Beaver Creek Campground visitor who found the arrangement workable but unexpected.
