Camping in West Virginia's Monongahela National Forest region offers diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,800 feet near Shinnston. The camping season typically runs April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping into the 50s at night. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with many sites requiring campers to bring containers to central water stations rather than having hookups at individual sites.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Coopers Rock State Forest provides multiple trail options directly from campsites. "The trails were well maintained, but be warned that the overlook is crowded," notes one visitor who stayed at the upper campground area.
Fishing opportunities: Tygart Lake State Park Campground offers direct water access for anglers seeking smallmouth bass and trout. A camper observed, "Trails to lakeside/shore where campers do swim although no swimming from shore is 'not' allowed. Just be respectful and clean up after yourselves and usually no drama involved."
Swimming options: Many glamping sites near Shinnston offer lake access, though official swimming areas may be limited. "The park has a pond you can swim and or fish at," explains a visitor to Chestnut Ridge Regional Park, which offers both modern and rustic cabins beyond traditional camping.
Feeding wildlife: Stonewall Resort State Park Campground's marina offers a unique opportunity for glampers. As one visitor recommends, "I highly recommend going to the marine to feed the carp. It's definitely an experience."
What campers like
Level sites: Site conditions vary widely across glamping locations near Shinnston. At Swallow Falls State Park Campground, a camper noted, "The tent sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep, I slept great."
Trail connectivity: Many glampers appreciate direct access to natural features. At Tygart Lake, a visitor explained, "Our site was right beside a trail that went directly to the lake but it is about 200 yards downhill."
Unique glamping accommodations: Five River Campground offers glamping options including yurts along the water. "We backed up to a large field and had a great view of the river! I didn't feel crowded at all!" reported a recent visitor.
Riverside privacy: Riverfront glamping sites offer natural seclusion. "As a tent camper, it's perfect on slow days and weekends... you simply locate a spot of your choosing along a half mile grassy stretch of river and set up camp," explains a Five River Campground visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mountain weather can vary dramatically. At Blackwater Falls State Park Campground, one glamper advises, "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!"
Electrical concerns: Some sites have power issues. One RVer at Stonewall Resort noted, "My surgeguard shut off the power in the evening due to high voltage. It was showing 137 volts at one time."
Wildlife management: Glamping sites often have wildlife interactions. At Tygart Lake, a camper warned about "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."
Site selection strategy: Campground layouts can be confusing. A visitor to Blackwater Falls observed, "This is a very oddly laid out campground... You back in & your door is facing the correct way, but your picnic table & fireplace are on the wrong side!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground offers play areas for children. A visitor mentioned, "There is a playground for the kids and plenty of room for them to play."
Digital detox opportunity: Some glamping locations near Shinnston have minimal technology access. A Coopers Rock visitor with children noted, "Didn't miss his PS4 at all... Great place to go for a long weekend trip."
Wildlife viewing: Several glamping locations offer chances to see animals. At Tygart Lake State Park, a camper shared, "Great place for a weekend trip. The camp sites are neat and clean. A lot of hiking trails to choose from and fishing, boating and swimming in the lake."
Budget activities: Nearby towns offer affordable entertainment. A visitor to Blackwater Falls mentioned, "Spent the day in Thomas looking at local art & antiques. The evening in Davis eating at hellbender burritos. Hiked some cool trails in the park and to see the falls."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Not all glamping sites accommodate larger vehicles. At Rhododendron Camping Area, visitors noted, "There was a fire place and a picnic table and an area to park your car. It was walking distance to the beautiful overlook."
Utility placement: RV-friendly glamping sites may have unusual layouts. At Coopers Rock, an RVer observed, "The RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently. The spots were well spaced out and pretty spacious, the site we had electric hookup for 50a/30a/20a but no water at the site."
Campground updates: Facilities continue to improve at several locations. At Coopers Rock, a recent visitor mentioned, "A new section will be opening later this season that will have elec and water" and another confirmed, "The new section is open and ready. Water and Electric Only. Dump station on the way out."
Surface considerations: Gravel sites can be an issue for some glampers. A visitor to Chestnut Ridge noted, "The spaces are big enough that you are not on top of your neighbors, which is nice. This site is fully gravel, so that's a bit of a turn off for us."
