Cabin camping near Salem, West Virginia provides access to forested mountain terrain ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet in elevation. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing. Flash flooding can occur during summer thunderstorms, affecting trail conditions near cabin areas.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: The North Bend Rail Trail offers 72 miles of relatively flat terrain accessible from River Run Campground — North Bend State Park. "All the trails bisect this campground, some foot only, others multipurpose. River Run also has a nice playground for the kids," notes one visitor. The trail includes 35 bridges and 11 tunnels from the former B&O Railroad.
Paddling opportunities: Multiple lakes within 30 minutes of Salem provide paddling options. At Tygart Lake State Park Campground, "the lake is beautiful as we kayaked Saturday afternoon," shares a visitor. The ten-mile-long lake accommodates various watercraft with expanded launch ramps and parking.
Mushroom hunting: Spring and fall offer productive mushroom hunting seasons. Within an hour's drive, foragers find morels and chanterelles. "Went down to pick some Morrell and shantrels mushrooms, they were everywhere, many of the mushrooms didnt even require us to leave the path!" reports a visitor about the woodland areas.
What campers like
Cabin privacy levels: Cabin seclusion varies significantly between locations. At Bigfoot Ridge, "this yurt is 100% Bigfoot themed and has all the essentials including a shower house with laundry, a creek, and an amazing bed." Some properties offer themed accommodations while others focus on practical comfort.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabins provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "The birds are active and wonderful to listen too!" notes a visitor to Tygart Lake. Deer sightings are common at dusk and dawn near wooded cabin areas, particularly during spring and fall.
River access: Several cabin locations offer direct water access. At Holly River State Park Campground, "the Holly River runs clear through the Park, right beside a good many of the sites and hanging a hammock and listening to the water, can't be beat!" This provides convenient fishing and wading options directly from cabin properties.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many cabin facilities operate on restricted schedules. "We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby," notes a camper at River Run Campground, highlighting the importance of seasonal planning. Some facilities close entirely during winter months.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies dramatically between cabin locations. "There was no phone signal at all for Verizon service, so a nice place to disconnect," reports a visitor about Holly River State Park. Prepare for limited or no connectivity at more remote cabin sites.
Wildlife management: Raccoons can become problematic at some sites. "There is a HUGE raccoon problem here, even during the day. I wish we were warned ahead of time. Many people bring an extra tent to keep their food in," warns a camper at Tygart Lake. Proper food storage containers are essential at certain locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several parks offer swimming facilities within walking distance of cabins. "The pool and splash area were very nice!" reports a visitor to Ryerson Station State Park Campground. Some locations charge additional daily fees for pool use beyond cabin rental costs.
Site selection for kids: Choose cabin locations with level outdoor play areas. "We had a wonderful time. The Park is great and we have stayed at lodge 4 times before but this was first camping trip," notes a River Run visitor. Sites 10, 11, 17, 19, 13, and 14 are recommended for families.
Cabin size considerations: Family cabin availability varies widely by location. "Made last second reservations and took spot 18. It's right by the ranger shack and closest to the bath house, nice for night time walking to bathroom," shares a Tygart Lake visitor. Reserve well in advance for larger family cabins during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many cabin and RV sites require leveling equipment. At Flatwoods KOA, "very unlevel spot. Not sure if they are all like this, but it's a big ugh..." reports a recent visitor. Cabins often feature wooden platforms which may not be perfectly level.
Access road challenges: Some cabin areas have difficult approach roads. "You enter the park through a Chevrolet dealership lot and then check in at the Days Inn Hotel," notes a Flatwoods KOA visitor, highlighting unusual access patterns. Road width and grade can challenge larger vehicles at certain properties.
Campground layout: Site positioning affects privacy and convenience. "The campground has 4 distinct areas for rigs which keeps it from feeling it is a RV parking lot. Most sites are pull through with full hook ups," explains a Flatwoods KOA visitor. Similar variations exist in cabin areas, with some offering clustered layouts and others more dispersed.
