Cabin camping near Shinnston, West Virginia provides access to the Allegheny Mountains region at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while fall brings cooler conditions and colorful foliage. Winter cabin rentals remain available at several locations when temperatures drop below freezing, making year-round accommodations possible despite seasonal campground closures.
What to do
Kayaking at North Bend Lake: Visitors at River Run Campground can access the 300-acre North Bend Lake for paddling. "I paddled on the North Bend Lake which was extremely peaceful and beautiful, with the colors of fall surrounding me on all sides. I brought my own kayak, but they had boats for rent," notes a camper who visited in October.
Hiking the Rail Trail: The 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail passes through 11 tunnels and crosses 35 bridges. "North Bend State Park is located at the halfway point of the 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail, so it's a great camping spot for hikers, bikers and horseback riders who want to explore this scenic trail," reports one visitor.
Mountain Biking and Racing: Trails at Coopers Rock State Forest offer challenging terrain for cyclists. A reviewer mentions: "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!"
Wildlife Viewing: The forests around these cabins provide habitats for deer, small mammals, and birds. "The birds are active and wonderful to listen too!" writes a visitor to Tygart Lake.
What campers like
Secluded Tent Sites: At Tygart Lake State Park Campground, campers appreciate the private spots. "We both agreed that we will only camp there if this particular site is open though. It is the tent site with the most privacy and it is the only one on that side of the road which made it nice," writes one reviewer about site 21.
Seasonal Outdoor Pool: Some cabin areas include swimming facilities for summer visitors. "The pool and splash area were very nice!" reports a visitor to Ryerson Station, while another mentions North Bend has "an outdoor swimming pool (closed when I visited in October, but looked really nice)."
Fishing Opportunities: Multiple cabin locations offer fishing access. A camper at Family Fishing N' Camping notes: "There ais great fishing and the staff and people are very accommodating."
Modern Facilities: Updated bathhouses and amenities enhance comfort at several locations. At Coopers Rock, a visitor reported: "The bathrooms were clean and heated to a comfortable level. Showers had great pressure as well."
What you should know
Seasonal Closures: Many cabin areas have limited availability during winter. "The campground closes in the late fall, but some cabins, and the lodge, are open year-round," notes a Tygart Lake visitor.
Reservation Requirements: Most cabins need advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Swallow Falls State Park Campground, a camper advises, "Great camping although could be totally filled up by a Thursday so you may want to reserve if a holiday weekend."
Cell Service Variability: Reception differs drastically between locations. One Ryerson Station camper warns: "The downside is no cell service for Verizon. I don't take these trips to remain connected, but this spot is quite isolated and if there was ever an emergency, help would be difficult to obtain."
Accessibility Challenges: Some cabin areas have terrain issues. A reviewer noted about Ryerson: "You have to drive several miles on a two lane winding road. Hard to navigate a vehicle in those road conditions."
Tips for camping with families
Look for Playgrounds: When booking a cabin with children, check for nearby play areas. At Chestnut Ridge Regional Park, "There is a nice green space for running around. They have a small camp store and it's great for scout troups."
Consider Modern Cabins for Comfort: Families often prefer upgraded accommodations. One Chestnut Ridge camper explains: "The modern cabin is 3 bedrooms with microwave, shower, sink, relax room."
Swimming Options: During summer months, check for water access. "The tent sites are great and the people who come here are always really friendly, you're bound to make some friends. Hiking here is gorgeous, and a good workout too," notes a Swallow Falls visitor.
Bring Wildlife Identification Materials: Wildlife sightings enhance children's experience. "We went in late October and we arrived fairly late in the day and to our surprise someone was in the store when we got there," mentions a Coopers Rock visitor who appreciated the staff presence.
Tips from RVers
Site Selection for Privacy: Some cabin and RV areas offer more separation than others. A camper at Camp Ara notes, "Imagine being greeted by a happy Golden Retriever upon entering your next campsite..need I say more? The hosts of this camp provide drinking water and warm hospitality."
Utility Considerations: Water pressure and electrical supply vary significantly. "Water and Electric Only. Dump station on the way out. 50amp - No issues," reports a visitor to the new section at Coopers Rock.
Pack for Weather Changes: Mountain elevations can bring unpredictable conditions. "Road out a decent storm and 2.5 inches of rain in 24 hours. One tree came down close us. Probably no more risky than anywhere else," states a Coopers Rock visitor.
Firewood Availability: Most cabin locations sell wood on-site. "I had a $6 bundle of firewood delivered to my campsite," mentions a River Run camper, while others note the availability but sometimes limited quantity for the price.
