Sutton Lake lies at 1,100 feet elevation within the mountainous terrain of central West Virginia. The surrounding Appalachian woodlands create distinct seasonal camping conditions, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F. Equestrian camping facilities near the lake provide direct access to multiple trail systems without requiring horse trailer transportation between sites.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Visit Camp Creek State Park for access to multiple waterfall sites. "Two very nice waterfalls. The first waterfall is on a road right by the modern campground so of course we had to visit," notes Cynthia K. in her review of Camp Creek State Park Campground.
Horseback riding: Access dedicated equestrian trails from East Fork Campground. "The campground had stables and catered to people with horses, but we felt very welcomed by the owners," mentions Cindy B. about East Fork Campground and Horse Stables, which serves as an alternative to other horse campgrounds near Sutton Lake.
Rail history experiences: Ride the historic Durbin Rocket near East Fork Campground. Harold C. notes, "Nice campground adjacent to the Durbin Rocket steam locomotive. They are doing a train robbery this week, robbers are riding horseback to steal a guarded shipment!"
Mountain biking: Access trails directly from camp at Kumbrabow State Forest. Joe B. from Camp Creek State Park Campground recalls, "I received a map at check in, and decided to ride my mountainbike to the top of 'Neely Knob'. It was quite a climb!"
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Many sites at Holly River State Park sit along flowing water. Kenneth K. comments, "Beautiful tent sites along the creek! I was there in late summer, but I plan to return in late spring when the rhododendrons would be in bloom," in his review of Holly River State Park Campground.
Peaceful environment: The distance from highways creates quiet camping conditions. "No interstate noise in the campground," reports Cynthia K. about Camp Creek State Park. Similarly, C.S. appreciates Kumbrabow's atmosphere: "Quiet, Small, Creek."
Wildlife viewing: The Greenbrier River Trail offers excellent animal spotting opportunities. Dave V. writes about Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6: "The amount of wildlife we saw throughout the day was incredible while biking the trail. Mostly deer, rabbit, chipmunks and Eastern Box Turtles sharing the trail...but we did see a few turkey, fox and bobcat."
Mountain views: Several sites provide scenic vistas. Dave V. describes hiking at Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 49.3 Primitive Campsite: "If you hike the 2-mile Potato Hole Trail, you'll arrive at the top of Rich Mountain and an overlook with a fantastic view."
What you should know
Bear safety precautions: Store food properly in bear country. Mike F. cautions about Cranberry River Sites: "One thing to remember is always hang your food at night. Bears will come in and make themselves at home! Lol" when reviewing Cranberry River Sites NF Campground.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have no wireless connectivity. Jennifer B. lists as both a pro and con for Kumbrabow State Forest: "No cell service."
Water access planning: Not all sites have water pumps. Dave V. advises about Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 49.3: "The GRT Mile Post 49.3 Primitive Campsite does not offer well water, so fill up before you get there."
Weather considerations: Frequent rain affects camping conditions. Elaine L. shares about Holly River State Park: "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Find safe water access points for children. Rachel L. from Camp Creek State Park advises: "The walk down to the creek behind our campsite is very easy and only a few steps."
Playground access: Select campgrounds with recreation facilities. Ryan P. appreciated East Fork Campground: "Nice bathhouse, nice playground, and beautiful setting. We used it as a base for Cass Scenic Railroad, which is not far from Durbin."
Site selection: Choose locations with adequate space for family activities. Megan B. reports about Kumbrabow: "Some of the campsites are smaller and less private than others. We stayed in campsite 11, and it had plenty of privacy and space."
Safety awareness: Supervise children near water features. Rachel L. warns: "If you visit Campbell falls, BEWARE it is extremely slippery. The brown algae makes it very slick and no shoe will handle it."
Tips from RVers
Access road considerations: Be prepared for challenging approaches to remote campgrounds. Beth R. notes about Elk River Camp: "Narrow gravel road to get to the newly developed portion of campground... One lane road in & out. 42' 5th wheel drug bumper to/from campground."
Site dimensions: Check for adequate space before booking. C.S. lists as a con for Kumbrabow: "No big-rig friendly," while Brett W. mentions about Holly River: "Some spots a little tight for bigger camper we have a 30' but we were okay."
Payment methods: Bring cash for some locations. Beth R. adds about Elk River Camp and RV Park: "Cash only payment."
Hookup availability: Not all equestrian sites have full hookups. John R. explains: "Mix of wonderful water and electric sites with ok full hookups. Beautiful river spots."
Traveler
