Riverside Campground, Marlinton, WV

For West Virginia locals passionate about immersing themselves in the state's incredible natural landscapes, Riverside Campground in Marlinton offers a truly exceptional and comfortable base for exploration. Nestled in picturesque Pocahontas County, this campground is a highly regarded destination for those seeking outdoor recreation combined with the comforts of a well-maintained facility.

Riverside Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to an array of adventures. Whether your passion lies in casting a line into a serene lake, cycling along scenic trails, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the mountains, this campground is designed to facilitate a memorable experience. It’s part of the broader Watoga State Park offerings, ensuring a level of management and access to amenities that enhance any stay.

The positive experiences of previous visitors speak volumes about what you can expect. One happy camper enthusiastically shared, "This is an excellent campground. You may go fishing at the lake and biking at the trail. The campground is well managed and very comfortable for stay, the bathroom is hot and neat." Another reviewer simply put it, "Very nice campground. Nice views, lots of wildlife. Only rains at night. 😜" These testimonials highlight the park’s appeal: excellent facilities, diverse activities, and a welcoming environment. The mention of "nice views" and "lots of wildlife" confirms that campers are truly immersed in the beauty of West Virginia.

The commitment to being "well managed" and providing "hot and neat" bathrooms addresses key concerns for many campers, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free stay. Riverside Campground is an ideal choice for West Virginians looking for a blend of natural beauty, convenient access to outdoor pursuits, and reliable amenities, making it a perfect spot for repeat visits to their beloved Mountain State.

Location and Accessibility

Riverside Campground is ideally situated at 720 Riverside Campground Rd, Marlinton, WV 24954, USA. This location places it within Watoga State Park, West Virginia's largest state park, in the heart of Pocahontas County. This region is a renowned hub for outdoor recreation and natural beauty, often called the "Birthplace of Rivers."

The campground's name, Riverside, is quite literal, indicating its proximity to a body of water, likely the Greenbrier River or one of the park's lakes, offering direct access for fishing and other water activities. Its integration within Watoga State Park means campers benefit from the park's extensive 10,000+ acres of woodlands, hiking trails, and various recreational facilities.

For West Virginia locals, accessibility to Riverside Campground is quite convenient. Marlinton, the nearest town, offers essential services, dining, and shops. The park is reachable via well-maintained state routes, allowing for a comfortable drive from different parts of West Virginia. The address itself, with "Riverside Campground Rd," suggests a direct and easy approach once you are in the vicinity of Watoga State Park.

A key highlight of its location is its exceptional connectivity to the Greenbrier River Trail. This 78-mile rail trail, famous for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, is readily accessible from the campground, making it a prime spot for trail enthusiasts. Additionally, the wider Pocahontas County area is rich with attractions such as the historic Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, the serene Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory at Green Bank. Riverside Campground serves as an excellent central base for exploring these unique natural wonders and cultural landmarks, combining a peaceful camping experience with the convenience of nearby adventures.

Services Offered

Camping Units: Offers 50 units, suitable for both RVs and tents.
Electric Hookups: 38 of the 50 units provide electric hookups (50 amp capacity), catering to various RV sizes.
Water Hookups: Available at electric sites.
Sewer Hookups: Not explicitly stated for every site, but central bathhouse implies facilities for waste management.
Central Bathhouse: Features hot and neat restrooms and showers.
Coin-Operated Laundry Facilities: Convenient on-site laundry for campers.
Dish-Washing Stations: Equipped with hot water for ease of cleaning.
Picnic Tables: Provided at each campsite.
Grills/Fire Rings: Available at sites for outdoor cooking and campfires.
Lake Access: Opportunities for fishing at a nearby lake (within Watoga State Park).
Trail Access: Close proximity and direct access to the Greenbrier River Trail for biking and hiking.
Pet-Friendly: Welcomes pets (though specific rules should be confirmed upon booking, as general state park rules might apply).
Reservations: Campsites can be reserved online, by phone, or at the campground office.
Maximum Stay: 14-night maximum stay limit.
Staff Assistance: The campground is described as "well managed," implying helpful staff.
Wildlife Viewing: Abundant wildlife in the area, offering opportunities for observation.
Scenic Views: Provides picturesque views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Features / Highlights

Excellent Campground Management: Consistently praised for being well-managed and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Clean and Modern Facilities: Features hot and neat bathrooms, along with convenient coin-operated laundry and dish-washing stations.
Direct Access to Outdoor Activities: Prime location for fishing at the lake and immediate access to the Greenbrier River Trail for biking and hiking.
Scenic Views & Abundant Wildlife: Offers beautiful natural surroundings and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Versatile Site Options: Caters to both RVs (with electric hookups) and tent campers.
Part of Watoga State Park: Benefits from being located within West Virginia's largest state park, providing access to its vast recreational offerings and amenities (e.g., full-service restaurant, various trails).
Spacious & Comfortable Sites: Reviewers highlight the "nice size" of the camping sites.
Convenient Reservation System: Easy to reserve sites online, by phone, or in person.
Seasonal Operation: Open from spring through fall, weather permitting, allowing for camping during prime outdoor seasons.
Friendly Atmosphere: Implied by positive customer reviews about helpful people.

Promotions or Special Offers

As part of Watoga State Park, Riverside Campground's promotions are typically aligned with those offered by West Virginia State Parks. While specific, limited-time deals can vary, state parks often provide consistent discounts that West Virginia locals can utilize.

Common promotions and discounts available through West Virginia State Parks (which would apply to Riverside Campground) include:

Veterans Salute Discount: Often offers 10% off campsites for veterans and active-duty military personnel (using a code like VETS10 when reserving online and presenting valid ID at check-in).
Senior Discount: Typically provides 10% off lodging (which includes campsites) for senior citizens aged 60 and older (using a code like SENIOR10 and presenting valid ID at check-in).
Hatfield-McCoy Trails Permit Holders Discount: Sometimes offers discounts on lodging for those holding HMTRAILS permits.
Government Rates: Available for state and federal employees on official business.

It is always recommended to visit the official West Virginia State Parks website (wvstateparks.com) or contact Riverside Campground directly for the most current pricing, seasonal specials, and eligibility requirements for any discounts. Given its popularity and status within a state park, booking in advance, especially for weekends or during peak seasons (spring through fall), is highly advisable to secure your preferred site.

Contact Information

To learn more about Riverside Campground, inquire about availability, or make a reservation, you can reach them through the following contact details, which are associated with Watoga State Park:

Address: 720 Riverside Campground Rd, Marlinton, WV 24954, USA (This is the specific campground address).

Primary Park Address: 4800 Watoga Park Rd., Marlinton, WV 24954 (This is the general address for Watoga State Park, which oversees Riverside Campground).

Phone: (304) 799-4087

Mobile Phone: +1 304-799-4087

Email: watogasp@wv.gov (This email is for Watoga State Park).

Website: Visit the West Virginia State Parks website for Watoga State Park (wvstateparks.com/park/watoga-state-park/) for reservations and comprehensive park information.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For West Virginia locals, Riverside Campground in Marlinton offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing camping destination, perfectly blending natural beauty with reliable amenities and abundant recreational opportunities. Its strong connection to Watoga State Park and the Greenbrier River Trail makes it a prime choice for residents looking for an authentic and comfortable outdoor experience close to home.

Firstly, the campground's reputation for being "well managed" with "hot and neat" bathrooms directly addresses common concerns for campers, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay regardless of whether you're in an RV or a tent. This level of maintenance and care provides a worry-free environment, allowing locals to fully relax and enjoy their time in nature. The convenience of coin-operated laundry and dish-washing stations further enhances the practical appeal, especially for longer stays.

Secondly, the prime location offers unparalleled access to a diverse range of outdoor activities that embody the "Wild, Wonderful West Virginia" spirit. Being able to go "fishing at the lake and biking at the trail" directly from your campsite is a significant draw. The Greenbrier River Trail, a local gem, is a stone's throw away, providing endless miles for cycling, hiking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Greenbrier River. For fishing enthusiasts, the readily available lake access is a major bonus.

Furthermore, as part of Watoga State Park, campers at Riverside benefit from the vast resources of West Virginia's largest state park, including extensive hiking trails, abundant wildlife, and the serene beauty of Pocahontas County. This proximity to a major state park means a diverse array of experiences are always within reach, from tranquil nature walks to more adventurous excursions. The "nice views" and "lots of wildlife" create an immersive natural experience that makes every moment in the campground special.

In conclusion, Riverside Campground is an ideal choice for West Virginia locals seeking a well-rounded and reliable camping experience. It combines the serene beauty of the mountains and rivers with well-maintained facilities and immediate access to prime outdoor activities. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, individuals can find peace, and all can truly appreciate the natural treasures of their home state, making it a perfect and convenient getaway.