The area surrounding Vienna, West Virginia features a mix of public and private camping options within a 30-mile radius. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 600-800 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with several locations closing during winter months due to frequent rainfall and occasional snow in December through February.
What to do
Covered bridge exploration: Hune Bridge Campground provides access to a historic covered bridge just steps from your campsite. "Adorable little campground, with a historic covered bridge and lovely creek in the backyard. There are 4 campsites and a vault toilet that is relatively clean and well-stocked," notes one visitor to Hune Bridge Campground.
Paddling opportunities: Multiple waterways near Vienna offer boating options. "I paddled on the North Bend Lake which was extremely peaceful and beautiful, with the colors of fall surrounding me on all sides. I brought my own kayak, but they had boats for rent," reports a camper at River Run Campground.
Disc golf courses: Several parks in the region maintain disc golf courses. "Site: wooded, scenic. Some sites more private than others. Some slightly sloped sites. Amenities: very clean. Attractions: rural area, lake, disc golf, fishing, swimming, hiking," explains a visitor to Forked Run State Park.
Hiking trail networks: The Wayne National Forest offers numerous trails. "The Paw Paw trail was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," notes a camper who stayed at Kinderhook Horse Trail.
What campers like
River access: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites. "We stayed at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! Plenty of ice and firewood at the store and a cute little gift shop," comments a visitor to River Run Campground.
Affordability: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates. "This campsite costed about 20 dollars per night. There is electricity and restrooms. There are showers like usual and there is also boat rentals," notes a Forked Run camper.
Rails-to-trails systems: The region features converted rail corridors. "This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail. It was easy check in with a friendly staff," explains a visitor at River Run Campground — North Bend State Park.
Water recreation: Lakes and rivers provide swimming and fishing. "The lake was nice but I am not sure if they recently had some weather that caused it to be pretty brown/muddy, or if that's normal," notes a Forked Run State Park visitor.
What you should know
Varied bathroom facilities: Campground restrooms range from modern to primitive. "Showers were clean but only central and shared between all loops," reports one camper at Forked Run State Park Campground.
Limited water sources: Some campgrounds lack potable water. "No drinking water is available, but there are creeks all around, so come prepared with a water filter!" advises a camper at Hune Bridge Campground.
Site conditions vary: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Sites are very bad for tent camping and not the best for RV's. Back ins are sort and most sites have no level ground even for the picnic table or fire ring," warns a Forked Run visitor.
Local traffic patterns: Some primitive sites experience unexpected visitors. "People coming and going every 15 minutes ish. Some folks pull in stare at you for a few seconds then leave," notes a camper at Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas. "The park itself is clean, but the facilities are dated. Shower house was OK, toilets are primitive," shares a visitor from Forked Run about their experience.
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds often include play equipment. "Great place to stay! The site was mostly flat where we parked the camper and very close to the bathhouse. Plenty to do around the park - biking the rail trails, hiking, fishing, basketball, and a nice playground," notes a camper at River Run Campground.
Cabin alternatives: For those who prefer not to tent camp, cabins offer comfort. "We stayed in the camper cabin, which is just a very basic shed with a bed, bunk beds, air conditioning and heat. We stayed there because it was July and I wanted A/C and electricity," explains a visitor to Forked Run.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloping sites. "Very close to the nice little downtown Marietta, Ohio but still very rural location. Large sites. Great staff. Absolutely love this place. Slow pace and quiet," notes a visitor to Ashland RV Park.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies by location. "While an RV park, you can also tent camp with the amenities, making it really nice. Electrical hookups and water at your site, plus clean bathrooms and a shower house on the property," reports an Ashland RV Park camper.
Back-in requirements: Most sites require backing in rather than pull-through access. "There was not many people there, sites are small back in, we stayed in loop two site 69 with great shade and electric," explains a Forked Run State Park visitor.
