RV camping near Nitro, West Virginia typically involves navigating terrain with significant elevation changes, particularly in areas east of the city. Winter temperatures in this region average 30-40°F, while summer months see 75-85°F with higher humidity levels. Cell service can range from excellent to non-existent depending on your proximity to major highways and towns, with significant dead zones in more remote camping areas.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Saint Albans Roadside Park offers direct river access for kayakers with a boat ramp that gives entry to the Kanawha River. "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," explains Jennifer B. at Saint Albans Roadside Park.
Chapel visits and photography: Rippling Waters Campground features a small wedding chapel that's open for prayer visits and photography opportunities. "The Chapel is open all the time for prayer and is a beautiful walk. I got to play with my camera perfecting my skills with day and night shots of the Chapel," shares Debbie F. who stayed at Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds.
Target shooting: Kanawha State Forest provides target shooting facilities for visitors wanting to practice their marksmanship while camping. Larry M. mentions, "They have a nice target range and trails," making it worth considering for campers who enjoy this activity while in the forest setting.
What campers like
Airpark proximity: Robert Newlon Airpark RV Park offers a unique camping experience adjacent to an active airstrip. "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," notes Jason G. at Robert Newlon Airpark RV Park.
Zero-cost electric hookups: Some sites provide free electricity despite their minimal stay requirements. Andrea W. comments about Saint Albans Roadside Park: "Wonderful overnight stop. Free electricity (30 amp). 3 spots available, first come first serve, no reservation. 2 nights max."
Water activities: Four Coves Campground features waterfront camping with multiple recreational options. "We were visited by geese, ducks and deer. Monday - Wednesday we had our loop all to ourselves," shares Whistle P. about their experience at Four Coves Campground, highlighting the midweek solitude available.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Access to Kanawha State Forest requires navigating steep, winding roads that can be difficult for larger vehicles. "The GPS led us up a gravel road with no signs for miles. Internet and cell service cut out within a mile up that road and we were not sure we were going the right way. The sights are on top of windy uphill mountain roads which we now call death mountain," warns Brooke V.
Train noise factors: Railroad tracks near some campgrounds create significant noise issues. At Robert Newlon Airpark RV Park, Cheryl T. notes: "The only real problem comes with the train tracks right here. The trains are close and do blow their whistle for crossing by the office."
Urban camping considerations: Not all camping options provide a wilderness experience. Sofia A. describes Saint Albans Roadside Park: "It's called roadside for reason. It ok for 1 or 2 nights. The bathrooms locked at night no showers. It is on river nice playground and across street from restraints and stores."
Tips for camping with families
Water slide access: Some campgrounds offer unique water features for children. Dustin M. describes Oasis Point RV Resort: "On the other side of the lake there is a large water slide and a zip line that both end in the water. There is a smaller pond for fishing, I'm pretty sure it's catch and release."
Playground facilities: Many campgrounds include playgrounds for children to burn energy. Andrew S. notes about Saint Albans Roadside Park: "There is a fenced in playground that is very nice. If you're a boater there is a boat slip a hundred yards away to get onto the Kanawha river."
Security considerations: Some camping areas have reported safety concerns that families should know about. Chad T. from Saint Albans Roadside Park advises: "Overall if your just passing through it would be a 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."
RV tips
Seasonal worker occupancy: Some campgrounds have high numbers of long-term residents. Karen P. observed at Oasis Point RV Resort: "Most of the Camp sites were full of construction workers. We basically had the pond to ourselves."
Shared hookup configurations: Fox Fire KOA has an unusual arrangement for electrical and water connections. Laura H. explains: "The hookups are a little strange. You share pedestals in many of the sites. And the arrangement is a little strange but it works."
Extra-long RV sites: Some campgrounds offer unusually spacious pull-through options. Larry shares about Rippling Waters: "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. We had a lake front spot, and the view is everything you'd imagine and more."
