Camping options near Spencer, West Virginia range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots with convenient access to area attractions. Sites at North Bend State Park sit 700-900 feet above sea level along the Hughes River and Cokeley Reservoir with typical summer temperatures in the mid-80s. Many campgrounds remain open year-round but offer varied amenities depending on the season.
What to do
Mountain biking on rail trails: North Bend State Park maintains access to a 72-mile converted rail trail with 35 bridges and 11 tunnels. "Bring your Bike! This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail. It was easy check in with a friendly staff," reports a River Run Campground visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes provide diverse fishing conditions within 30 minutes of Spencer. "Right beside the area for camping is the parking lot where you can put in boats into O'brien Lake. There seems to be an abundance of deer in the area," notes a reviewer at Statts Mills Campground.
Waterfall hikes: Camp Creek State Park features two accessible waterfalls within walking distance of camping areas. "Two very nice waterfalls. The first waterfall is on a road right by the modern campground so of course we had to visit," explains a recent visitor to the park.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many campsites provide tranquil settings away from highway noise. A visitor to Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds shared: "The campground was very quiet and peaceful. My 25 year old son was the youngest person there, except for 2 hours when 1 year old came to visit his grandparents."
Wildlife viewing: Deer and various bird species are commonly spotted throughout the region. "We watched the resident swan swim around the fountain and I got to play with my camera perfecting my skills with day and night shots of the Chapel. There was local traffic during the daylight hours but didn't hear a peep when we went to bed," notes another Rippling Waters visitor.
Campsite spacing: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites rather than crowded arrangements. A Cedar Creek State Park reviewer mentioned: "This is a pleasant campground. Lots of shade. Hiking trails nearby. Nice fishing ponds, but you have to drive to them."
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have highly chlorinated or poor quality water. At Rippling Waters, one camper noted: "The water is pretty strong so you may want to use a regulator. Water also had a strong odor of chlorine. After showers I felt like I was just getting out of a pool."
GPS challenges: Several campgrounds report issues with GPS directions leading to difficult access roads. A Kanawha State Forest visitor warned: "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."
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal or no cell coverage. At Cedar Creek, a camper reported: "Campground is nice and quiet no cell service so dont be shocked, but that makes it that much better."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Cedar Creek State Park offers several play areas spread throughout the campground. "Awesome campground, so well kept. Stayed here on the way home from shenandoah natl park and had a very peaceful night. Plenty of playgrounds for the kids," shared a visitor.
Beach swimming: Some parks feature sandy beaches ideal for family water activities. "Forked Run State Park has a beautiful lake and a nice beach. There are boat rentals and a frisbee golf course. Overall, this part of the park is beautiful," reports a Forked Run State Park visitor.
Site selection for tent campers: Families with tents should research specific sites before booking. A Camp Creek State Park reviewer suggested: "I liked the sites that were by a creek- 8/9/10/13/14/15/16/18. 12 is a pull thru. These sites have a paved pad & the whole campground looked nicely kept."
Tips for RVers
Access routes: Many campgrounds have challenging approach roads. For North Bend State Park, a visitor to Cokeley Campground advised: "Come in via Harrisville as the way in via Cairo has very bad roads. Campground is very nice and well maintained."
Site levelness: RVers report varying experiences with site grading. "Our site was flat but pretty unlevel, wasn't a huge concern. They had a nice play ground for kids and a large amphitheater," noted a Flatwoods KOA visitor.
Hookup quality: Water pressure and electrical service can vary significantly between sites. "Sites have water and electric; dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration," reported a Cokeley Campground visitor.
