Cabins near Riverton, West Virginia sit at elevations ranging from 2,300 to 3,500 feet in the Monongahela National Forest region. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during day and drop to the 60s at night. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures frequently below freezing with significant snowfall accumulations common from November through March.
What to do
Hiking at Dolly Sods: Access mountain trails directly from Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground. "There's no shopping in the area (except the grocery store, dollar general and a few boutiques) but there are several parks in the area and great, unique sites. We went in Aug 2017 and the weather was lovely," notes Regina C.
Mountain biking trails: Ride gravel trails at Canaan Valley Resort State Park Campground. "The summer sees backpackers, hikers, mountain bikers, gravel grinders, car-campers and RVers. Not only do you have hiking trails here on the State Park location...you can drive up to the nearby Dolly Sods Wilderness Area," writes Dave V.
Fly fishing: Access prime trout waters at Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort. "Great spot for fly fishing. Lots of hiking trails, fishing spots and caverns!" says Jason E. The resort offers premium riverfront spots for anglers.
Cave exploration: Tour the underground formations at Smoke Hole Caverns, located minutes from several mountain accommodations. "Location is prime!! Perfect if you are a trout fisherman or hiker. Trail head to Chimney Rock is 2 minutes from camp site and Seneca Rock is about 20 minutes away," reports Casey L.
What campers like
Private riverfront campsites: Revelle's River Resort offers direct water access. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river and the seasonal campers spread out around," writes Kevin C.
Stargazing opportunities: Dark skies make for excellent night viewing. "Dark sky and an open field for stargazing," notes Jean C. about the campgrounds at Smoke Hole Caverns.
Mountain wildlife viewing: Seneca State Forest offers frequent wildlife encounters. "Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures. Short drive or hike to Lake with boat rentals and fishing. Campground is only 10 sites with plenty of canopy for shade," shares Mike C.
Live entertainment options: On-site entertainment venues at some resorts provide evening activities. "Restaurant, Shavers Saloon, was walking distance and had full bar with good food. Service there was great," mentions Todd C. from Revelle's River Resort.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many mountain areas have no connectivity. "There is no cell service within 30 miles, so for an outsider who doesn't know the area, it was difficult to find the campsite," warns Evan G. about Seneca State Forest.
Supply preparation critical: Pack all essentials before arrival. "You also better bring everything you need beforehand. There are no grocery stores anywhere near the campsite," advises Evan G.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality ranges from rustic to modern. At Stuart Recreation Area, "They still have plumbing issues and the showers are still non-functional, but we brought our own anyway," notes Ron.
Seasonal considerations: Winter access requires appropriate vehicles. "The roads are gravel most the way up Thorny Mountain...and the last bit up to the tower had experienced recent washout from storms, so the going was rough but very doable," explains Dave V. about access in Seneca State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some sites feature dedicated play areas. At Canaan Valley Resort, "We had a great time! The campsite was full hookup & very inexpensive!!!! Plenty of trees providing shade! There is a little park for the kids, it could use a little TLC!" shares Amanda H.
Swimming options: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground offers water recreation. "The river is beautiful, but you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there. On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks," explains Tiel M.
Protected spaces for children: Look for sites with natural boundaries. "The sites are far apart. Bathrooms were OK. There are deer everywhere!" notes Jim C. about Canaan Valley Resort.
Educational opportunities: Some locations offer learning experiences. "The camp store was nice with everything you need, and the staff and owners were friendly as well," says Kevin C. about Revelle's River Resort, which provides local information and guided activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven parking surfaces. "Nice private camping areas more well suited to tents than RV. Most of the sites are very out of level," warns Ron about Stuart Recreation Area.
Hook-up reliability: Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA provides consistent services. "It's a typical KOA. Well managed, clean, friendly staff. The sites are large enough and level enough. The power pole is well positioned," reports Dale Y.
Delivery services: Some sites offer special conveniences. "I love that they will pick up your trash and deliver firewood," says Katie M. about Harrisonburg KOA.
Size restrictions: Larger rigs have limited options. "There are a number of campgrounds in the Smoke Hole Canyon/Seneca Rocks area, but most of them are better suited to smaller rigs and tent campers. If you have a class A or are looking for something with full hookups, look no further," advises Jean C. about Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort.
