Within Jackson County, West Virginia, Ripley's camping areas sit at around 600-800 feet elevation in the Ohio River Valley region. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Camping options range from church-affiliated properties to riverside locations, with varying levels of cellular connectivity throughout the region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: O'brien Lake at Statts Mills Campground offers boat access directly from the parking area next to the camping sites. "It's a nice little campground on a hill. Right beside the area for camping is the parking lot where you can put in boats into O'brien Lake," notes one camper who also mentioned seeing "an abundance of deer in the area."
Watch skydiving activities: At Robert Newlon Airpark RV Park, visitors can observe parachutists on weekends. "This is one of the more unique campgrounds we have stayed. The park is located on a local airstrip with parachutists, apparently jumping on Sundays," reports one reviewer who appreciated this distinctive feature.
Paddling access: The Kanawha River is accessible from Saint Albans Roadside Park where campers can enjoy water recreation. "The ramp gives you direct access to the Kanawha River which is primarily used by coal barges, speed boats and vintage paddle wheelers. For kayakers like me, you should bare left at the bottom of the ramp and head toward the Coal River where you can enjoy a nice, peaceful paddle without the fear of being swamped or crushed."
What campers like
Quiet, secluded settings: Farver Acres offers a remarkably private camping experience with only three sites. One camper described their stay: "We didn't see another person for four full days — it was such a rare and welcome break from traditional campgrounds." Another visitor noted it is "a very private setting and beautiful views."
Waterfront views: Camping at Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds provides scenic lakeside settings. A visitor described their experience: "We watched the resident swan swim around the fountain and I got to play with my camera perfecting my skills with day and night shots of the Chapel. There was local traffic during the daylight hours but didn't hear a peep when we went to bed."
Affordability: Several RV parks in the region offer economical rates, particularly for extended stays. At Harris RV Park, a reviewer highlighted the value: "Right on the Ohio River. Tight spots, but pretty level. The owner, Max, is amazing. He met us with a welcome packet in a reusable bag... Did I mention we're right on the Ohio River with full hookup for $25 a night?! Full hookup alone is worth more than 25 bucks."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: While most RV parks near Ripley remain open year-round, some amenities may be limited in winter. At Saint Albans Roadside Park, visitors should note specific stay limitations: "Free electricity (30 amp). 3 spots available, first come first serve, no reservation. 2 nights max," according to a recent visitor.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds in the region have notable water characteristics. At Rippling Waters, one camper observed: "The water is pretty strong so you may want to use a regulator. Water also had a strong odor of chlorine. After showers I felt like I was just getting out of a pool. So keep that in mind, might want a filter besides the typical blue filters."
Facility maintenance: Campground upkeep varies significantly across the region. One visitor to Statts Mills Campground reported concerns: "The swings were all broken and on the ground in the playground, the picnic tables were broken and falling apart, the grass had not been cut, and the electricity did not work in all of the sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature recreational facilities for children. Saint Albans Roadside Park offers "a fenced in playground that is very nice," according to a visitor who also noted the convenient location "across from a grocery store, pet store, and auto supply store."
Religious settings: Ashland RV Park provides family-friendly accommodations near Marietta. One camper shared: "While an RV park, you can also tent camp with the amenities, making it really nice. Electrical hookups and water at your site, plus clean bathrooms and a shower house on the property. It's also a quiet area and everyone is very respectful."
Safety considerations: When staying at roadside parks, security awareness is important. A camper at Saint Albans noted: "Overall if your just passing through it would be an ok place for the night. Make sure to keep your stuff locked up. Lots of vagrants and over grown men riding kids bicycles with backpacks."
Tips from RVers
Site length variations: For larger rigs, Rippling Waters offers exceptionally long pull-through sites. "Our site is the longest I've ever seen, it's basically a long driveway that leads back out to the road, that's pretty awesome," commented one RVer who added that the site was "fairly level, had to use a few blocks on the driver side."
Internet connectivity: Many rv parks near Ripley, West Virginia have limited WiFi options, though some properties offer exceptions. At Farver Acres, a guest reported being "pleasantly surprised by the fast campsite internet," making it suitable for those needing to stay connected.
Entrance challenges: Access to some RV parks requires careful navigation. When arriving at Statts Mills Campground, note that "the entrance does not accommodate an RV or a large camper even though the owner said it did," according to one visitor's experience.
