Glamping near Wilsondale, West Virginia offers campers access to the densely forested Appalachian region with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler evenings around 55-65°F. Most campgrounds in this region are positioned near waterways, providing opportunities for creek swimming and fishing throughout the warmer months from May through September.
What to do
Creek swimming: Try the kid-friendly swimming areas at Ole Henry's Camping retreat where according to one visitor, "The creek nearby offers up a good, safe swimming hole for all the kids and adults." The natural swimming environment provides a refreshing alternative to manufactured pools.
Trail riding: Access nearby trail systems within short drives of most campgrounds. At Pappy's Creekside Camp, "The owner and staff very friendly and even set us up with a local group to show us around. They also offer parking and you don't have to worry about any one messing with your stuff because there is always some one there!"
Holiday events: Participate in special celebrations at local campgrounds throughout the summer season. One camper noted, "The Memorial Day celebration pig roast with live music and even a huge fireworks display were amazing. I'm planning on returning for the 4th of July celebration pig roast."
Fishing: Cast for multiple species in the local waterways. The Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius area is known for its fishing opportunities as one camper explains, "They have plenty of crappie, bass, and catfish stocked in the lake and there are bait shops close by."
What campers like
Privacy at select sites: Some glamping options close to Wilsondale, West Virginia provide secluded areas away from the main camping areas. At Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, "We had one of the back in sites which was nice because there was nothing but woods behind us."
Family-oriented atmosphere: The campgrounds foster community environments where families can gather. One visitor at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius noted, "Most of the sites shaded and separated by trees. Love the privacy this provides. Our favorite 'close to home campground'!"
Nature immersion: Unlike many commercial campgrounds, some locations provide a more authentic outdoor experience. According to a camper, "I LOVE camping here, unlike a lot of camp grounds they're actually within the woods so you feel like you're actually part of the forest and the nature."
Weekend events: Regular gatherings create a social atmosphere at many campgrounds in the region. As one camper stated about Fox Fire KOA, "Nicely decorated for Halloween and seemed like it had lots of nice amenities for kids."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region can experience significant rainfall, affecting camping conditions. At Jims Campground, one camper reported, "The sewer was flooded because of the rain, don't park in the middle line Is bad."
Site selection matters: Not all sites at each campground offer the same level of privacy or convenience. One camper advised, "Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others."
Water pressure issues: At some campgrounds, the utilities can present challenges. One visitor warned, "We stayed at site 6 which wasn't too difficult to park but the water pressure was extremely high."
Highway noise: Some glamping locations near Wilsondale are close to major roads. A Fox Fire KOA visitor noted, "Lots of highway noise," which might affect light sleepers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Children need activities beyond swimming and hiking. At Jenny Wiley State Park Campground, families enjoy "games and general activities at the campground, community center, dam, parks, and it's really close to town in case you want to check it out."
Entertainment amenities: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. One visitor to Ole Henry's noted, "The playground area has a nice swing set and a couple big wooden play structures. There is blain drain pipe slides coming off one of the hillsides that is a kid favorite. They also have a little 55 gallon barrel train ride for little kids."
Food options: Consider campgrounds with on-site food service. According to a camper, "Ole Henry's has a very nice setup with a Giovannis pizza restaurant and camp store on site. It is privately owned and the owners are very nice."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local fauna. One camper at Jenny Wiley State Park mentioned, "Wildlife everywhere," making for educational opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookup placement: The configuration of utilities varies between campgrounds. One RVer noted, "Campsites are set up where the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose."
Leveling requirements: Site terrain can present challenges. A visitor to Iron Ridge mentioned, "Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others."
Electric amperage: Check electrical capacity before booking. At Breaks Interstate Park Campground, "Most site are full hookup, but not all," which means verifying the availability of appropriate connections for your specific RV needs.
