Glamping near Winona, West Virginia offers year-round options with varying seasonal considerations. The region sits at elevations between 2,000-3,000 feet in the Appalachian Mountains, creating distinct temperature variations between summer and winter camping experiences. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-65°F with colorful foliage displays, while summer camping sees temperatures averaging 70-85°F with occasional evening thunderstorms.
What to do
Water activities at Summersville Lake: Located near Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins, the lake provides clear water recreation options. "We spent July 4th weekend here and really enjoyed it. Bathrooms are nicer than our bathrooms at home. Friendly and helpful staff. There was low key live music Friday and a band/party Saturday night that was super fun," notes one camper who stayed at a nearby site.
Whitewater adventures: The New River Gorge region offers class III-V rapids depending on water levels and season. As one visitor to Adventures on the Gorge - Mill Creek shared, "This place is awesome for anyone looking to pack a day full of activities. The white water rafting was incredible and the staff all around was FANTASTIC."
Hiking trail exploration: Multiple trail networks connect throughout the region with varying difficulty levels. "There are lots of trails to forage and nearby Gristmill to top it all off. If we'd had the time, we would've stayed an extra night," says a visitor to Babcock State Park, highlighting the interconnected trail systems throughout the region.
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Privacy ranks high on campers' preferences in this region. A Rays Campground visitor mentioned, "The site we had, site 10, was large and secluded. Clean shower house and hot water and the owners were extremely friendly."
Fishing opportunities: Direct river and lake access for anglers is available at many locations. "Areas to fish and good camping areas spaced apart. Friday night and there was only a few campers," notes a camper who visited Grandview Sandbar Campground.
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds host seasonal activities and music. One glamper at The Outpost noted, "Live music on weekends throughout the summer included with your stay. Also, they have some ticketed events for live music. Not to mention the New River NP borders the campground."
What you should know
Varying amenities between locations: Facilities range from primitive to full-service. A visitor to Army Camp explained, "No drinking water, so bring your own. No hookups. The river is nearby, but none of the sites are on the river. There's an accessible site and also accessible trail to a bench along the river."
Seasonal availability: Many glamping operations close during winter months. "This is a great place. Really enjoyed our stay here. Beautiful resort style property and close to the National Park. Sites are big, a few are un-level but ours in site 15 was great," mentions a camper who visited in the main season.
Weather considerations: The mountain location creates quick-changing conditions. One camper shared, "It rained the entire time I was there, yet I still enjoyed my stay. Campsite was clean and the other campers were quiet. Cell reception is scarce, but that's not a problem, just an observation."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several locations offer dedicated play areas. A visitor to Mountain Lake Campground observed, "Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site."
Accessibility considerations: Some locations offer modified sites for mobility needs. A camper noted, "Showed up Saturday evening and was able to get a great spot with a view of the river," when describing handicap-accessible spots at Grandview Sandbar.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for animal sightings with proper safety guidelines. "We were here in a travel trailer. Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn! They had a mini golf course, a small pool, a jumping pad, and an ice cream shop in the general store," shares a family who camped in the area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many locations require leveling blocks due to terrain. "Some Sites no shade. Sites really tight, all large gravel, clean but really ugly. Right on road," warns an RVer who stayed at The Outpost at New River Gourge.
Hookup limitations: Water and electricity availability varies significantly between sites. "Sites have water and electric. Spacious, private. We had #9. Level..walking trail system connected to camp sites," mentions a camper describing Little Beaver State Park's offerings.
Road access considerations: Some locations have challenging access routes. "The road to 4 was horrendous to be pulling a camper. Had to use 4Low to creep out. It should be paved, no exceptions for that hill," cautions an RVer who experienced difficult terrain at Mountain Lake Campground.