Best Campgrounds near West Columbia, WV

Camping near West Columbia, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

• Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. One camper mentioned, "Great area. Camped here with my friends and I’ve been here on a backpacking trip through OU. That being said there are backpacking trails and hiking trails as well as mtn biking." This highlights the variety of trails available for different skill levels.
• Fishing: Many campgrounds have access to lakes and rivers. A visitor at Lake Alma State Park Campground noted, "Plenty of fishing and biking trails," making it a great spot for anglers.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: If you're near water, consider renting a kayak. One reviewer at Lake Snowden Campground - Hocking College said, "The trails are great for hiking and some more intermediate mountain biking," indicating that water activities are also popular.

What campers like

• Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the natural beauty. A review for Forked Run State Park Campground mentioned, "It was very clean and the areas coming into the campground beautifully maintained," which speaks to the park's upkeep.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many visitors enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Zaleski State Forest shared, "We have hiked in and hammock camped at Zaleski a handful of times," emphasizing the tranquility of the area.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Hocking Hills Jellystone Campground offer activities for kids. A parent noted, "Kids really enjoyed everything," which makes it a great choice for families.

What you should know

• Site Sizes Vary: Some campgrounds have small or uneven sites. A visitor at Forked Run State Park Campground warned, "Ensure your rig can fit into your selected site prior to booking as sites can be small and hilly."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full facilities. A camper at Strouds Run State Park Campground mentioned, "There are pit toilets, potable water towards the front, and that's it," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Alma State Park Campground said, "The noise level at night was unbelievable," which might be a concern for light sleepers.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One camper at Hocking Hills Jellystone Campground said, "We weren’t very far from Mold Mans Cave either," indicating nearby attractions for family outings.
• Plan for Close Quarters: Many sites are close together. A visitor at Lake Alma State Park Campground noted, "Campsites were just too close for us," so be ready for some neighborly interactions.
• Pack Entertainment: Bring games or outdoor toys. A parent at Kountry Resort Campground mentioned, "The activities building had a pool and game room area," which kept the kids entertained.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Dimensions: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Forked Run State Park Campground advised, "Sites can be small and hilly," so double-check before booking.
• Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A visitor at Lake Snowden Campground - Hocking College mentioned, "The site should at least say what amperage the site is that you are reserving," highlighting the importance of knowing what to expect.
• Expect Some Noise: RV parks can be lively. A camper at Krodel Park Campground noted, "This place needs to invest in better facilities," which suggests that some areas might not be as quiet as desired.

Camping near West Columbia, West Virginia, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!