Seneca State Forest cabin camping blends rustic accommodations with modern amenities. Sites range from basic 1930s-era structures to more modern facilities with varying levels of electricity and plumbing. According to one visitor at Seneca State Forest, "We stayed in a cabin this time. One of the pioneer cabins. Let me say it was awesome, wood stove, gas light, outhouse and had to get your own water. The cabin was well put together and the staff has you set up to enjoy your stay with everything from soap to cut wood."
What to do
Hiking trails: Explore the extensive trail system at Watoga State Park with options for all skill levels. A camper noted, "This park is absolutely wonderful even without being close to Greenbrier River Trail. The biking is tremendous. And the opportunity for good fishing is also ample."
Star gazing: Take advantage of minimal light pollution at higher elevations. At Spruce Knob, one camper shared, "On a clear night, star gazing is incredible as there is no ambient light. It is much cooler at this elevation, even in the summer...and the winds on the summit cut through like a knife."
Water recreation: Lake Moomaw offers swimming, fishing, and boating with rentals available. A visitor to Bolar Mountain Recreation Area said, "The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming. We rented kayaks at the marina/camp store down the road and explored a little cove that was really cool. We blocked out 4 hours, but only lasted 2 hours before we got tired."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Sites at Williams River provide good opportunities to see local fauna. A minimalist camper explained, "I love these sites... I prefer a good ole tent and fire and not having electricity. I always go to camp site #7 or #8... Not to mention you're by the river with both of these sites so if you like to swim that's a plus."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Seneca State Forest. One reviewer mentioned, "Site 4 (non-electric) is one of the best when it comes to size of site, privacy, and remote feel. Campground is only 10 sites with plenty of canopy for shade."
Access to river: Many sites near Snowshoe offer stream or river proximity. At Watoga State Park, a camper shared, "Located right on the beautiful Greenbrier River, the camping is perfect for bringing your kayaks! Watoga offers primitive and electric only sites, but there is water to fill up with throughout the park and a dumping station."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is extremely limited throughout the region. A camper at Watoga State Park explained, "It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it."
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations experience temperature drops after sunset, even in summer. Pack additional layers. A camper noted, "It is much cooler at this elevation, even in the summer...and the winds on the summit cut through like a knife."
Supplies and groceries: Limited access to stores means bringing everything needed. One reviewer warned, "There are no grocery stores anywhere near the campsite and we didn't have any food with us. The firewood is unbundled and there are no showers. We ended up not staying here because we were not prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Morris Hill Campground, one family mentioned, "A couple bathrooms with shower, utility sinks behind bathroom, water spigots throughout and a playground."
Beach activities: Lake swimming areas provide safer alternatives to river swimming. A visitor to Bolar Mountain noted, "Beach was small but pretty. There's a large bathroom, a volleyball net, picnic tables and I believe a few tent camping spots as well."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for animal sightings. One camper at Seneca State Forest shared, "Encountered 19 deer, 1 bear, and several other small creatures. Short drive or hike to Lake with boat rentals and fishing."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many mountain sites require significant leveling. At Flatwoods KOA, a camper warned, "Be ready to tow up steep hills throughout this park. Our site was flat but pretty unlevel, wasn't a huge concern."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have issues with water quality. Bring filtration if needed. One RVer noted, "Make sure you run the water lines to clear them out before hooking up. The water quality is very poor."
Electric hookups: Limited full-hookup sites are available. A Watoga State Park visitor explained, "Most RV sites have electric, and water fill stations are easily accessible. Sites weren't too close together, and they were clean and well kept."
