Camping sites near Dellslow, West Virginia range from 1,300 to 2,600 feet in elevation throughout the Monongahela region, creating significant temperature variations between locations. The local terrain features numerous creek and river access points that often become difficult to navigate after heavy rainfall. Most campgrounds in this region experience temperature drops of 15-20 degrees at night compared to daytime highs, even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking at Coopers Rock State Forest: Trails range from family-friendly paths to more challenging routes, with multiple access points from camping areas. "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!" notes Nick P. about the Coopers Rock State Forest climbing opportunities.
Swimming at Chestnut Ridge Park: The sandy beach area provides calm water access with designated swimming zones. A visitor notes, "This sites seem spaced out well and there is a sandy beach where kids are often found collecting newts and fishing. There is a nice green space for running around." Chestnut Ridge Regional Park maintains this swimming area from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Kayaking at Tygart Lake: The ten-mile lake offers multiple boat launch points with expanded parking areas for vehicles with trailers. "We took our kayaks along but opted to drive to the boat launch instead of carrying our kayaks down the trail. It is an option though," explains Dusty R. about accessing the water at Tygart Lake State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many camping areas feature natural barriers between sites. "The sites are spread out. Electricity at sites but no water or sewer. A new section will be opening later this season that will have elec and water," explains William B. about site spacing at Coopers Rock State Forest.
Bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds have recently upgraded their facilities. Josh W. reports about Sand Springs Campground: "New bath house is excellent. Old ones… meh.. they are old. Will return." Visitors consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities as a factor in their return visits.
Trail access from campsites: Many campgrounds feature direct trail connections to water features and overlooks. Sienna L. notes about Rhododendron Camping Area, "The campground is in walking distance to the overlook and most of the trails. Absolutely lovely here!" This proximity to trails eliminates the need for driving to trailheads.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly across campgrounds. "We did have cell service with Consumer Cellular (AT&T Towers) and were able to work while we camped," notes Kevin H. about Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park, though most areas have spotty coverage at best.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons actively visit campsites, particularly after dark. Take proper food storage precautions, as one visitor warns: "Raccoons tore open our cooler, ate some of our food, and scattered the rest of our food and water in the woods."
Variable site conditions: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "The sites in several areas lack level spots for large tents," notes one camper. Emily M. recommends at Rhododendron Camping Area: "The camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "My kids love the swings and playground also," mentions Dale O. about Swallow Falls State Park Campground, which maintains equipment suitable for various age groups.
Kid-friendly trails: Look for shorter loop trails with interesting features. Lindsay W. shares about Coopers Rock: "Many hiking trails of all sizes and kept clear. My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere. Also had 12yr old son with me and he had a great time."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening offer the best wildlife spotting times. "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya!" suggests Emily M. about Rhododendron Camping Area, which provides viewing platforms overlooking valley areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Choose sites carefully based on your rig size. Molly F. advises about Mylan Park: "Easy to get to, decent sized 'parking spaces', available on holiday weekend, good price ($40/night), full hookups (bring your long sewer tube, I used 3 x15' as it's at the tail of the spot)."
Water pressure considerations: Pressure varies significantly between campgrounds. Dana G. warns: "The water pressure here is very weak, but there is a shower house that is kept fairly clean for you to use." Consider filling your freshwater tank before arrival.
Electric hookup options: Amperage availability differs across sites. "We had empty space on either side of us. New section is spaced out with a berm of earth in between alot of the sites. 50amp - No issues," reports Josh W., noting the newly developed camping section at Coopers Rock provides more reliable power connections.
Ranger
