Paradise Campground, White Sulphur Springs, WV

For many of us across West Virginia, camping is more than just an occasional weekend escape; it's a way of life, a chance to truly immerse ourselves in the natural beauty that surrounds us. While some campgrounds offer a transient experience, there's a special kind of place that fosters a sense of belonging, a community where campers return year after year, building friendships and creating a true home away from home. Paradise Campground in White Sulphur Springs, WV, is exactly that kind of destination, offering a unique blend of outdoor enjoyment and a welcoming, family-like atmosphere.

Paradise Campground, located on Big Draft Road, stands out not just for its scenic setting, but for its distinctive community feel. Unlike many public campgrounds where stays are limited, Paradise Campground has cultivated an environment where many campers have established long-term or even permanent setups. This creates a vibrant, friendly atmosphere where neighbors know each other, and a genuine sense of camaraderie flourishes. Opened in 1972 by Dorothy Shinaberry, this beloved campground has welcomed generations of families, many of whom have been returning since its inception. This long-standing tradition of hospitality and community makes Paradise Campground a truly special spot for those seeking more than just a temporary campsite, but rather a seasonal or year-round haven in the heart of Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. It's a place where the sounds of laughter and shared stories often blend with the gentle rustling of leaves, creating an idyllic retreat.

Location and Accessibility

Paradise Campground is conveniently located on Big Draft Rd, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986, USA. Its proximity to White Sulphur Springs makes it easily accessible while still providing a genuine escape into a more rural, natural setting. From White Sulphur Springs, navigating to Big Draft Road is generally straightforward, offering a pleasant drive through scenic landscapes that set the tone for your peaceful getaway.

The campground's location also offers a strategic advantage for exploring the wider region. It's only about nine miles from the amenities and attractions of White Sulphur Springs, and notably, it's just about a mile from the popular Blue Bend Recreation Area (which is sometimes referred to as a "State Park" by locals due to its popularity and well-maintained facilities, though it's officially part of the Monongahela National Forest). This proximity means campers at Paradise have easy access to hiking, swimming, and fishing opportunities along Anthony Creek at Blue Bend, enhancing their overall outdoor experience. The roads leading to Paradise Campground are typically well-maintained, allowing for easy access for RVs and campers of various sizes. While specific details on site leveling or turning radii might vary, the campground has clearly supported a community of long-term RV residents for decades, indicating good general accessibility for recreational vehicles.

Services Offered

RV Sites with Full Hookups: A significant feature of Paradise Campground is its provision of water and electric hookups at many, if not all, of its sites. This makes it particularly suitable for RV and camper enthusiasts seeking comfortable, longer-term stays.
Bathhouse: The campground offers a bathhouse with restrooms, providing essential facilities for campers. One review from a visitor to nearby caverns mentioned that women's bathrooms were better than men's and needed a coat of paint but were decently clean, suggesting basic but functional amenities.
Daily and Yearly Rentals: Paradise Campground offers flexibility with both daily and yearly rental options for RVs and campers, catering to both short-term visitors and those looking to establish a more permanent presence.
Community Atmosphere: While not a tangible "service," the strong sense of community and friendly environment is a core offering, fostered by the prevalence of long-term campers.
Trash Disposal: Waste management is typically provided, helping maintain a clean and pleasant environment for all residents and visitors.

Features / Highlights

Established Community: Perhaps the most distinctive feature of Paradise Campground is its established community. Many campers are set up permanently or semi-permanently, creating a neighborly, welcoming environment that reviewers describe as feeling "more like a community." This is a significant draw for those seeking a consistent social experience in their camping life.
Long-Standing Operation: With over 50 years of operation (opened in 1972 by Dorothy Shinaberry), Paradise Campground boasts a rich history and a proven track record of welcoming campers, with generations of families returning year after year. This longevity speaks to its quality and appeal.
Proximity to Blue Bend Recreation Area: Being just a mile from Blue Bend Recreation Area means campers have immediate access to one of West Virginia's most beloved outdoor spots, known for its authentic "swimming hole" in Anthony Creek, clear water, and scenic loop trails.
Water and Electric Hookups: The availability of water and electric hookups on many sites provides a level of comfort and convenience that is highly valued by RV and camper users, especially for longer stays.
Family-Oriented: The multi-generational appeal and the community feel make Paradise Campground an excellent choice for families looking for a consistent and friendly place to enjoy the outdoors together.
Secluded yet Accessible: Located on Big Draft Road, the campground offers a sense of being "away from it all" while remaining relatively easy to reach from White Sulphur Springs, balancing tranquility with convenience.
Owner-Operated Care: The fact that Dorothy Shinaberry continued to operate the campground with the help of friends ("her boys") speaks to a personal touch and dedication that contributes to its unique charm and community spirit.

Promotions or Special Offers

Information regarding specific, advertised promotions or special offers for Paradise Campground is not readily available in public records, unlike large chain campgrounds. Its pricing structure appears to be based on daily and yearly rentals, catering to its unique mix of short-term and long-term residents. The "special offer" at Paradise Campground, for many, is the opportunity to be part of a stable, welcoming camping community with access to essential hookups, a feature that many transient campgrounds do not provide or do not prioritize in the same way.

For detailed pricing on daily or yearly rentals, it is always best to contact the campground directly. Given its history of long-term residents, there may be specific rates or terms for extended stays that offer value to those looking to establish a semi-permanent base in West Virginia's beautiful Greenbrier County. The inherent value lies in the unique community atmosphere and the amenities provided for comfortable, extended camping in a desirable West Virginia location.

Contact Information

For inquiries about Paradise Campground, including availability, reservations, and specific rates for daily or yearly rentals, it is best to contact the campground directly.

Address: Big Draft Rd, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986, USA

Phone: (304) 635-3961 or +1 304-635-3961 (Note: This number is also associated with Blue Bend Campground in Frankford based on previous search results, suggesting it might be a central line for a broader area or a number used by the managing entity. It's always best to state clearly you are inquiring about "Paradise Campground on Big Draft Road in White Sulphur Springs" when calling).

Additionally, while a P.O. Box address (PO BOX 435, WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, WV, 249860435) is listed as a mailing address in some public business records, direct phone contact for inquiries is usually the most efficient method.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For West Virginians, Paradise Campground offers a distinct and highly suitable camping experience, especially for those seeking more than just a fleeting visit to the outdoors. What truly makes it ideal for locals is its deep-rooted sense of community. Unlike many transient campgrounds, Paradise has fostered a welcoming environment where returning campers form bonds, creating a friendly, almost neighborhood-like atmosphere. This is perfect for families or individuals who want a consistent, familiar place to return to season after season, or even year-round for those with permanent setups.

The availability of water and electric hookups makes it a comfortable and convenient option for RV and camper owners, allowing for extended stays without sacrificing essential amenities. Furthermore, its prime location on Big Draft Road means easy access to the recreational opportunities of the Monongahela National Forest, particularly the beloved Blue Bend Recreation Area, a mere mile away. This combination of community, convenience, and access to natural beauty provides a unique and highly appealing proposition for West Virginia residents. It's a place where you can relax into a routine, build lasting friendships, and truly make a home away from home amidst the wild and wonderful landscapes that define our state, cementing Paradise Campground as a true local gem.