Best Campgrounds near Ripley, WV

Camping near Ripley, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Hocking Hills State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Beautiful area with great hikes and views close by." The trails are known for their unique features, like Old Man's Cave and Lower Falls.
• Water Activities: At Lake Hope State Park Campground, you can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding. A reviewer said, "The lake is beautiful and there is a very nice lodge for meals."
• Wildlife Watching: Burr Oak State Park Campground is a great spot for nature lovers. One camper noted, "Burr Oak campgrounds is so relaxing and quiet," making it perfect for spotting local wildlife.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathhouses at Rifrafters Campground. A visitor shared, "The bath house was VERY clean and the showers had great water pressure."
• Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpfulness of the staff at Chestnut Creek Campground. One review said, "Owner is nice and helpful. He gave me good advice on what to see."
• Secluded Sites: Campers enjoy the privacy offered at Top O' The Caves Campground. A guest mentioned, "The tent site was decently secluded and near a nice small pond."

What you should know:

• Site Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Forked Run State Park Campground, have uneven sites. A camper warned, "Ensure your rig can fit into your selected site prior to booking as sites can be small and hilly."
• Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise at certain campgrounds. One visitor at Huntington / Fox Fire KOA noted, "There is car and truck noise all day long and all night too."
• Limited Amenities: Some sites, like those at Zaleski State Forest, lack modern amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "Showers and bathrooms were subpar."

Tips for camping with families:

• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Lake Hope State Park Campground, which offers hiking and swimming. One family said, "The lake is beautiful and there is a very nice lodge for meals."
• Secluded Spots: Choose campgrounds with more space between sites, like Burr Oak State Park Campground. A camper noted, "It was great with silence and space."
• Plan for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Top O' The Caves Campground advised, "Bring your bug spray for sure!"

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Levels: Make sure to check the level of your site before booking. A reviewer at Forked Run State Park Campground mentioned, "Some are down over banks & some are on a slant."
• Water and Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with good hookups, like Rifrafters Campground. One camper said, "Good, steady power and water at the site."
• Be Mindful of Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds that are further from highways, like Chestnut Creek Campground. A visitor noted, "It was very peaceful and quiet at night."

Camping near Ripley, West Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to check the specifics of each campground to find the best fit for your needs!