Cabwaylingo State Forest West Virginia (WV) RV Rentals

RV Rentals Dates
Home / National & State Park Guides / State Parks /  Cabwaylingo State Forest

Looking for RV rentals, camper van rentals or travel trailer rentals near Cabwaylingo State Forest?


Introduction

Cabwaylingo State Forest is an ideal destination for RV camping enthusiasts who are looking for a unique and memorable outdoor experience. This forest, located in the heart of West Virginia, is steeped in history and cultural significance. The park derives its name from the Cabwaylingo Creek, which was once a vital transportation route for Native Americans and early settlers. The forest’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine streams, making it a haven for naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

One of the most remarkable features of Cabwaylingo State Forest is its biodiversity. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including black bears, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer. The forest’s unique topography is also a result of natural occurrences such as floods, landslides, and erosion, which have shaped the land over thousands of years.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Cabwaylingo State Forest. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Cabwaylingo State Forest.

RV Rentals in Cabwaylingo State Forest

Transportation

When it comes to transportation options Cabwaylingo State Forest is easily accessible by private vehicle. Visitors can enter the park from different entrances including the main entrance on Route 10 and the East Entrance on Route 47. However it’s essential to note that the park has restrictions on rig sizes and RV renters should check with the park office before making travel arrangements.

RV parking at Cabwaylingo State Forest can be found in designated areas throughout the park. However overnight parking outside of these campsites is not permitted. RV camping is recommended as it allows for a comfortable base camp while exploring the park using alternative transportation methods.

Cabwaylingo State Forest offers public transportation options for getting around. Visitors can take advantage of shuttle buses and walking paths to explore the park without having to drive their personal vehicles. These options provide an eco-friendly and convenient way to see all that the park has to offer.

Top Campsites in Cabwaylingo State Forest

It’s time to explore the top campsites and KOAs in and around Cabwaylingo State Forest that require reservations.

1. Hatfield McCoy Campground – This popular campground offers 50 sites with full hookups for RVs and trailers up to 45 feet. Located in the heart of the Hatfield-McCoy Trails it’s the perfect spot for ATV enthusiasts. You’ll find amenities like showers laundry facilities and a general store. The campground is pet-friendly and open from April to November.

2. Laurel Lake Wildlife Management Area – With 30 campsites this spot is perfect for those seeking a more secluded experience. Located on the edge of Cabwaylingo State Forest it offers access to fishing boating and hiking trails. RVs and trailers up to 30 feet are welcome and the campground is open from May to October. Pets are permitted but must be leashed.

3. Wayne County Campground – Just a short drive from Cabwaylingo this campground offers 25 sites with full hookups for RVs and trailers up to 35 feet. Amenities include a swimming pool playground and picnic areas. The campground is open year-round and is pet-friendly.

4. Matewan KOA Journey – Located about an hour from Cabwaylingo this KOA offers 50 sites with full hookups for RVs and trailers up to 65 feet. The campground features a pool hot tub and a dog park. It’s open from April to October and is pet-friendly.

Now let’s take a look at some first-come-first-served campgrounds in and around Cabwaylingo State Forest.

1. Camp Creek State Park – This campground offers 26 primitive sites for tents and RVs up to 30 feet. Located just a few miles from Cabwaylingo it’s a great spot for hiking and fishing. The campground is open from April to October and is pet-friendly.

2. Matewan City Park – This small campground offers 10 sites for RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. It’s located in the historic town of Matewan about 30 minutes from Cabwaylingo. The campground is open year-round and is pet-friendly.

3. Twin Falls Resort State Park – With 50 sites this campground offers a mix of primitive and full hookup sites for RVs and trailers up to 40 feet. Located about 20 minutes from Cabwaylingo it’s a great spot for hiking golfing and swimming. The campground is open from April to October and is pet-friendly.

If you’re looking for alternative camping options near Cabwaylingo State Forest here are a few suggestions.

1. Private Campgrounds – There are several private campgrounds in the area that offer full hookups and amenities like swimming pools playgrounds and laundry facilities. Some popular options include the Chief Logan Lodge Riverside Cabins & Campground and Twisted Gun Golf Course.

2. Backcountry Camping – For a more rustic experience consider backcountry camping in the surrounding national forests. You’ll need to obtain a permit and follow Leave No Trace principles but the solitude and scenery are worth it.

The most popular outdoor activities that draw RV campers to Cabwaylingo State Forest include

Hiking the Guyandotte Trail

With over 12 miles of scenic trails the Guyandotte Trail offers breathtaking views of the forest creeks and wildlife. The trailhead is located near the campground making it easily accessible for RV campers.

Fishing at the Miller Fork Lake

Stocked with bass catfish and bluegill the Miller Fork Lake is a hotspot for anglers. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery creating a serene atmosphere for a day of fishing.

Biking the Crooked Fork Loop

This 6-mile loop trail is perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts as it features challenging terrain and beautiful views of the forest.

Exploring the Rock Castle

Located near the Miller Fork Lake the Rock Castle is a unique rock formation that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It’s a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Kayaking the Guyandotte River

For those who prefer a more leisurely activity kayaking down the Guyandotte River is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the forest. The river is easily accessible from the campground and kayak rentals are available nearby.

For RV campers who prefer less strenuous activities Cabwaylingo State Forest offers several alternative options

Sightseeing at the Fernow Experimental Forest

This area features over 50 tree species making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the forest and learn about its history and ecology.

Wildlife watching at the observation deck

Located near the Miller Fork Lake the observation deck offers a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Visitors may catch a glimpse of deer turkeys or even black bears.

Photography at the Cranberry Glades

These unique bog areas are home to several rare plant species making them a popular destination for photographers. The glades are located about an hour’s drive from the campground.

Visiting the Bickel Knob Fire Tower

This historic fire tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike a short trail to the tower and climb to the top for breathtaking views.

Exploring the Heritage Farm Museum

Located near the campground the Heritage Farm Museum offers a glimpse into the history of Appalachian culture and agriculture. Visitors can tour historic buildings and learn about traditional farming techniques.

Season-specific experiences in Cabwaylingo State Forest

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Cabwaylingo State Forest especially for RV campers looking to explore the great outdoors. Here are five must-see attractions and activities to check out during this season

Hiking Trails

With over 20 miles of hiking trails Cabwaylingo State Forest offers a variety of terrains to explore. The beautiful spring foliage and blooming wildflowers make for breathtaking views and the trails range from easy to challenging so there’s something for every skill level.

Fishing

The forest is home to several streams and lakes making it a perfect destination for fishing enthusiasts. The most popular spot is Cabwaylingo Lake which is stocked with bass catfish and trout.

Birdwatching

Spring is the perfect time to spot migratory birds and Cabwaylingo State Forest is home to over 100 species of birds. The forest’s diverse habitats provide ample opportunities to see a variety of species including warblers hawks and owls.

Cave Exploring

The forest is home to several caves including the famous Brush Creek Cave which is over 2 miles long. Spring is a great time to explore the caves as the cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable experience.

Historical Sites

The forest is rich in history with several historical sites to explore. One of the most popular is the site of the Battle of Scary Creek which took place during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the battlefield and learn about the history of the area.

Summer is a great time to visit Cabwaylingo State Forest especially for RV campers looking to escape the heat and enjoy some outdoor activities. Here are five must-see attractions and activities to check out during this season

Swimming

With several lakes and streams in the forest there are plenty of opportunities for swimming. The most popular spot is Cabwaylingo Lake which has a designated swimming area and a sandy beach.

Boating

The forest offers ample opportunities for boating including canoeing kayaking and paddleboarding. Visitors can rent boats from the park or bring their own.

Horseback Riding

The forest has over 20 miles of horseback riding trails which wind through the beautiful woodlands and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

Camping

Cabwaylingo State Forest has several campgrounds including RV hookups making it the perfect destination for camping enthusiasts. The forest’s peaceful surroundings and beautiful scenery make for a memorable camping experience.

Nature Programs

The forest offers a variety of nature programs throughout the summer including guided hikes birdwatching tours and wildlife presentations. These programs provide a great opportunity to learn about the forest’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Fall Foliage Viewing

As autumn arrives Cabwaylingo State Forest transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. RV campers can witness the stunning fall foliage as the park’s trees don vibrant hues of red orange and gold. Take a leisurely stroll along the park’s trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing leaves. The park’s meadows forests and riverbanks provide picturesque settings for capturing breathtaking photographs of the fall foliage.

 

Photography

Fall offers a wealth of photographic opportunities in Cabwaylingo State Forest. The vibrant colors of the foliage combined with the soft golden light of autumn create a magical atmosphere for capturing stunning images. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional photographer the park’s landscapes and historical sites offer endless inspiration. Capture the beauty of the fall foliage the reflections in the river or the weathered textures of the mining structures.

Hiking

Fall is an ideal time for hiking in Cabwaylingo State Forest as the weather is cooler and the trails are often less crowded. Explore the park’s trails and witness the changing colors of the foliage up close. The park offers a variety of hiking options from easy nature walks to more challenging treks. Enjoy the crisp air the sound of leaves crunching underfoot and the peacefulness of the park’s natural surroundings.

 

Wildlife Photography

Fall is a great time to capture wildlife in their natural habitats in Cabwaylingo State Forest. As animals prepare for the winter months they become more active offering RV campers ample opportunities for wildlife photography. Look out for deer squirrels and a variety of bird species as they forage for food and prepare for the colder season. Patience and a keen eye will reward photographers with stunning images of wildlife in their fall habitats.

 

Historical Exploration

Fall provides a pleasant temperature for exploring the park’s historical sites. Take a step back in time as you visit the preserved buildings and artifacts that tell the story of the Gold Rush era. Learn about the lives of the miners and the challenges they faced while seeking their fortunes. The fall season adds a touch of nostalgia to the historical sites creating a unique and memorable experience for RV campers.

These fall activities in Cabwaylingo State Forest offer RV campers a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the season. Whether it’s admiring the fall foliage capturing stunning photographs hiking amidst colorful landscapes observing wildlife or exploring the park’s historical sites there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of autumn in the park.

Hiking the Fernwood Trail

The Fernwood Trail is a popular destination for RV campers during the fall season in Cabwaylingo State Forest. The trail winds through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the changing leaves. The trailhead is located near the campground and is a moderate hike making it accessible for all skill levels.

Visiting the historic Morgan’s Kitchen

Morgan’s Kitchen is a historic site located within Cabwaylingo State Forest. The cabin was once home to the Morgan family who were some of the first settlers in the area. During the fall visitors can take a guided tour of the cabin and learn about the history of the area.

Fishing on the Mud River

The Mud River is a popular fishing spot for RV campers during the fall season. The river is stocked with trout and other fish making it a great spot for anglers of all skill levels. The river is located near the campground and offers beautiful views of the surrounding forest.

Exploring the Hickory Ridge Fire Tower

The Hickory Ridge Fire Tower is a must-see destination for RV campers during the fall season in Cabwaylingo State Forest. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and is especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves are changing.

Attending the annual Fall Festival

The annual Fall Festival is a popular event for RV campers in Cabwaylingo State Forest. The festival features live music food and craft vendors. The festival is held in the campground and is a great way to experience the local culture.

CODE: RVTHEREYET at checkout
(Limited time offer- expires soon)
10% OFF RV Rental*
CODE: RVTHEREYET at checkout
(Limited to Spring promotion only)
10% OFF RV Rental*