Tomlinson Run State Park

Hello, fellow West Virginians! Are you dreaming of a peaceful escape into nature, where the trails are inviting, the water is cool, and the stars shine bright? Look no further than Tomlinson Run State Park Campground in New Cumberland, WV. Nestled in the extreme tip of West Virginia's scenic northern panhandle, Tomlinson Run State Park is a beloved gem, offering a wide array of recreational opportunities and diverse camping experiences that cater to every type of outdoor enthusiast. For almost 20 years, visitors have cherished the "peaceful and relaxing" atmosphere of this park, making it a long-standing favorite for many local campers.

Tomlinson Run State Park truly embodies the "Almost Heaven" spirit of West Virginia. It’s a place where you can find both rugged wilderness and well-developed recreational areas, providing the perfect balance for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer the classic experience of pitching a tent, the comfort of an RV with electrical hookups, or the unique charm of a yurt or camper cabin, this park offers a variety of ways to make your stay memorable. Visitors consistently praise the "excellent, easy, well marked trails," the "nice spots" for camping that are "far apart from each other," and the generally "clean and friendly" environment, despite some older facilities. It’s more than just a campground; it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor activities, from fishing in stocked ponds to enjoying a dip in the swimming pool.

This article is crafted specifically for you, our local West Virginia users, to give you a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Tomlinson Run State Park Campground. We'll delve into its precise location and accessibility, detail the extensive services and features you can expect, and provide all the essential contact information you’ll need to plan your perfect getaway. Our aim is to highlight why this cherished state park campground is a top-notch choice for your next outdoor adventure in the Northern Panhandle, inviting you to discover or rediscover all the natural beauty and recreational opportunities it holds.

Tomlinson Run State Park Campground is located at WV-8, New Cumberland, WV 26047, USA. This places it strategically in Hancock County, at the northernmost tip of West Virginia's panhandle. Its position offers exceptional accessibility for residents throughout West Virginia, particularly those in the northern counties, and is also convenient for visitors from neighboring Ohio and Pennsylvania.

The park's address on WV-8, a state highway, indicates straightforward road access, which is a significant benefit for campers towing RVs or trailers. You won't have to navigate challenging backroads to reach this destination. Once inside the park, clear signage guides visitors to the campground area, boat rentals, and other facilities. The park itself spans 1,398 acres, offering a diverse landscape that includes heavily forested hills and overhanging cliffs, while still maintaining developed areas for recreation and camping.

Its proximity to communities like New Cumberland, Weirton, and Chester means that essential services, supplies, and dining options are within a reasonable driving distance. This balance of natural seclusion with practical accessibility makes Tomlinson Run an ideal choice for both short weekend getaways and longer, more immersive camping trips. Whether you're coming from Wheeling, Morgantown, or even across the state line, the journey to Tomlinson Run State Park is designed to be as easy and enjoyable as the stay itself, allowing you to quickly settle in and start exploring.

• Campsites: Tomlinson Run State Park Campground offers 54 campsites, designed to accommodate both tents and trailers.
• Electric Hookups: 33 of the 54 campsites provide electrical hookups (30-amp and/or 50-amp), catering to RVs and trailers requiring power.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: All campsites come equipped with a picnic table and a grill with a fire ring, essential for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Bathhouses: The campground features two bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers, ensuring comfort and convenience for campers. Reviews note them as "always clean."
• Laundry Facility: A laundry facility is available, which is a significant convenience for longer stays.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is provided for RV waste disposal.
• Contact Station and Convenience Store: There's a contact station for check-ins and information, as well as a convenience store within the campground for basic supplies and camping necessities.
• Camper Cabins: Three furnished camper cabins are available for rent (April-October). Two have electricity only, while a third includes a sink with water, electric, fire ring, and picnic table.
• Yurts: Four yurts are available for a unique camping experience (April-October). These circular structures are furnished with bunk beds, a cooler, propane stove, lantern, cookware, picnic table, and fire ring.
• Group Camp: An organized group camp is available for larger groups, featuring 10 cabins that sleep 10, a counselor's quarters for 12, a fully equipped kitchen, dining hall, and recreation building.
• Boat Rentals: Rowboats and paddle boats are available for rent at the concession stand on Tomlinson Run Lake. Kayak rentals are also offered.
• Fishing: The park's main lake and three stocked ponds offer excellent fishing opportunities for species like bass, catfish, bluegill, and trout. A West Virginia fishing license is required.
• Swimming Pool: A large swimming pool with a 182-foot figure-eight waterslide, bathhouse, and snack bar is open seasonally (Memorial Day to Labor Day).

• Diverse Camping Options: Tomlinson Run excels in providing a range of accommodations, from traditional tent and RV sites to unique yurts and comfortable camper cabins, catering to various preferences and group sizes.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts well-marked hiking trails, including the Beech Trail, Laurel Trail, White Oak Trail, Poe Trail, Bigfoot Trail, and Maple Trail, catering to different skill levels and offering scenic views of forests, cliffs, and waterways.
• Lake and Ponds for Water Activities: Tomlinson Run Lake (30 acres) and several stocked ponds offer excellent opportunities for boating (electric motors only), fishing, and enjoying the water.
• Family-Friendly Recreation: Beyond camping, the park offers a swimming pool with a waterslide, miniature golf, basketball and volleyball courts, disc golf, and playgrounds, ensuring plenty of entertainment for all ages.
• Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: Many long-time campers praise the park for its consistent tranquility and relaxing environment, noting the campsites are "far apart from each other," enhancing privacy.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite some facilities showing age, overall reviews indicate clean bathhouses and a well-kept park, with staff generally being "nice and friendly" and not overly intrusive.
• Natural Beauty: The park is divided into developed and wilderness sections, featuring heavily forested hills, overhanging cliffs of sandstone and shale, and a profusion of wildflowers, making it a beautiful setting for nature observation.
• Pet-Friendly Trails: Dogs on leashes are welcome on the park's hiking trails, allowing furry family members to join in the outdoor adventures.

As a West Virginia State Park, Tomlinson Run State Park Campground operates under the standard rate and reservation policies set by the West Virginia Division of Parks and Recreation. While direct "promotions" in the commercial sense are less common, state parks often have consistent pricing structures and seasonal variations.

However, it's worth noting that West Virginia State Parks occasionally offer specific discounts or packages. For instance, a "Veterans Salute Discount" offering 10% off is sometimes available with a valid military ID. For specific information on rates for campsites, cabins, yurts, or group camps, and any potential seasonal offers, it is highly recommended to visit the official West Virginia State Parks website for Tomlinson Run or contact the park directly. Online reservation systems typically provide transparent pricing and availability. Be sure to check for any special packages that might combine camping with other park activities like miniature golf or boat rentals, particularly during peak seasons.

To learn more about Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, check availability, or make a reservation, please use the following contact details:

• Phone: (304) 564-3651
• Mobile Phone: +1 304-564-3651
• Address: WV-8, New Cumberland, WV 26047, USA

It is always advisable to call the park office directly or visit the official West Virginia State Parks website to confirm specific site details, pet policies for certain areas, current operating hours for facilities (like the pool or boat rentals), and any park alerts or operational changes before your visit. Reservations for campsites, cabins, and yurts are strongly encouraged, especially during peak seasons and holidays, to ensure you secure your preferred spot.

For West Virginians, Tomlinson Run State Park Campground is an outstanding and highly suitable destination for a diverse range of outdoor adventures. Its appeal for locals is multifaceted, combining convenience, a wide array of activities, and a welcoming atmosphere right here in our own "Almost Heaven."

Firstly, its location in the northern panhandle makes it easily accessible for many residents, offering a straightforward drive for a weekend escape or a longer vacation without extensive travel. This convenience allows more time to be spent enjoying the park rather than on the road. Secondly, the sheer variety of camping options – from traditional tent and RV sites with electric hookups to the unique experience of yurts and the comfort of cabins – ensures that every family, group, or solo adventurer can find accommodations that perfectly fit their needs and preferences. This versatility is a major draw for the local community.

Beyond just a place to sleep, Tomlinson Run State Park is a vibrant recreational hub. The well-marked trails are perfect for hiking and exploring the diverse landscape, while Tomlinson Run Lake and the stocked ponds offer fantastic opportunities for fishing and boating. The seasonal swimming pool with its exciting waterslide, miniature golf, and disc golf courses provide ample entertainment, especially for families with children. Despite some facilities being "run down" according to one older review, the overall consensus points to a clean, well-maintained park with friendly staff, creating a peaceful and enjoyable environment. For West Virginians seeking a reliable, amenity-rich, and beautiful state park experience to connect with nature, engage in outdoor activities, and create lasting memories, Tomlinson Run State Park Campground stands out as an exceptional local treasure. It’s a place where generations have camped and will continue to enjoy the tranquility and adventure it offers.