Wetzel County 4H Camp, New Martinsville, WV

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of New Martinsville, West Virginia, the Wetzel County 4-H Camp stands as a cornerstone of community activity and a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For generations of West Virginians, 4-H camps have been synonymous with learning, growth, and memorable experiences, and our local facility here in Wetzel County carries on that proud tradition. It’s a place where the spirit of community thrives, where agricultural heritage is celebrated, and where the beauty of our state can be enjoyed by everyone.

More than just a campground, the Wetzel County 4-H Camp serves as a vital hub for local events, from lively fairs and rodeos to family reunions and church camps. This versatility makes it a unique and cherished asset for residents throughout West Virginia. Whether you're looking to park your RV for a peaceful retreat, attend an exciting community event, or simply enjoy the expansive outdoor space, the Wetzel County 4-H Camp offers a welcoming environment for all. It's truly a place where "Almost Heaven" comes alive through shared experiences and a deep connection to our West Virginia roots.

Location and Accessibility

The Wetzel County 4-H Camp is conveniently situated at WV-7, New Martinsville, WV 26155, USA. This prime location places it just 2.7 miles east of New Martinsville on Route 7 East, making it highly accessible for residents of Wetzel County and surrounding areas. Its proximity to New Martinsville means that while visitors can enjoy the tranquility of a rural setting, they are never far from local amenities, including shopping and dining options.

The 40-acre property is easily reachable by vehicle, with well-maintained roads leading directly to the camp entrance. For those attending events like the annual Town and Country Days Fair, the camp's ample parking and clear signage ensure a smooth arrival. The site's layout is designed to accommodate various activities, from large public gatherings to individual camping stays, with clear pathways and designated areas. The flat, open fields provide easy movement for visitors of all ages and abilities, and recent improvements, including ADA-compliant viewing areas, further enhance accessibility for everyone to enjoy the diverse events hosted here.

Services Offered

RV Camping Sites: The Wetzel County 4-H Camp boasts 84 30-amp RV camping sites. These sites are equipped with water and electrical hook-ups, ensuring a comfortable stay for RV enthusiasts. All spots have access to dumping facilities, making it convenient for longer visits. The rental fee for a 30-amp site is $25 per night. There are also 50-amp sites available for $18/day, $108/week, and $432/month.
Restrooms and Shower House: Modern restroom facilities and a dedicated shower house are available on-site, providing essential amenities for campers.
Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation.
Event Facilities: The camp features various facilities for hosting events, including three picnic shelters (two smaller ones seating approximately 50 people, and one large one seating 130), a stage for concerts and community activities, and recreational fields.
Mollohan Conference and Training Center: An 8,000-square-foot facility designed for a wide range of activities. It includes a 5,500-square-foot banquet and assembly hall, ideal for wedding receptions, parties, and large group training. An 800-square-foot conference room and a 600-square-foot commercial kitchen are also part of this center. The center is heated and air-conditioned for year-round use.
Fishing Access: The property is located next to Big Fishing Creek, offering opportunities for fishing and boating. A kayak launch and a fishing platform are also available.
Recreational Fields: Expansive open recreational fields provide plenty of space for youth activities, sports, and general outdoor enjoyment.
Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RV campers.

Features / Highlights

Community Hub: The Wetzel County 4-H Camp is a vibrant center for the local community, hosting a wide array of annual events. These include the beloved Town and Country Days Fair, County 4-H Camp, Family Reunions, Wedding Receptions, National Wild Turkey Federation Banquets, Church Camps, Car Shows, Autumnfest, Horse Camps, and Achievement and Award Banquets. This diverse calendar ensures there's always something happening for locals to enjoy.
Town and Country Days Fair: A major highlight, this annual fair brings together locals and visitors for a week of fun, featuring livestock and farming events, quilting demonstrations, carnival rides and games, various contests, live bands, and popular attractions like the Mud Bog and Demolition Derby.
Rodeo and Fair Activities: As noted in customer reviews, the camp is a popular venue for events like rodeos, which add to the excitement and variety of offerings throughout the year.
Accessible Outdoor Recreation: Beyond organized events, the camp provides ample space for informal outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy walking or hiking on various trails, utilizing the kayak launch, or fishing from the dedicated platform.
Family-Friendly Environment: The camp is designed to be a welcoming place for families, with open spaces for children to play and a safe environment for community gatherings.
Historical Significance: The 40-acre property was purchased in 1937 specifically for developing a 4-H Campground, reflecting a long-standing commitment to youth development and community engagement in Wetzel County.
Continuous Improvement: The Wetzel County Commission, which owns and operates the grounds, is dedicated to ongoing improvements. Recent upgrades include the replacement of bleachers with new aluminum seating and the addition of a concrete area designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities, adhering to ADA guidelines, significantly increasing seating capacity for spectators.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a publicly owned and operated facility under the Wetzel County Commission and closely affiliated with the West Virginia University Extension Service, the Wetzel County 4-H Camp primarily offers competitive and transparent rental fees rather than ongoing promotional discounts typically found at private commercial campgrounds.

Affordable Camping Rates: The daily fee for a 30-amp RV site is $25, while 50-amp sites are $18/day, with weekly ($108) and monthly ($432) rates also available, making it an economical option for both short and extended stays.
Event Rental Fees: Rental fees for the Mollohan Center are $150 per day for the banquet hall and $50 per day for the conference room. Shelters can be rented for $25 to $35 per day. These rates are designed to be affordable for community groups, families, and organizations.
Seasonal Closures for 4-H Activities: It is important to note that the campgrounds are typically closed to the general public during peak 4-H summer camp sessions, usually from June 1st through August 26th. This ensures dedicated space for youth programming, a core mission of 4-H. Visitors planning a trip should always verify availability during these times.
Fair-Specific Information: During major events like the Town and Country Days Fair, admission fees may apply. For instance, in previous years, daily admissions were $8 for Monday-Thursday and $9 for Friday-Saturday, with special offers like free admission for senior citizens (65 and up) during specific hours on Thursdays. Details for these events are typically announced closer to the event dates through local media and the Wetzel County Commission or fair organizers.

For the most current information on availability, rates, and any specific event-related offers, it is always best to contact the Wetzel County WVU Extension Office directly.

Contact Information

Address: WV-7, New Martinsville, WV 26155, USA
Phone (Wetzel County WVU Extension Office - for reservations and general inquiries): (304) 455-0934
Mobile Phone (Event Coordinator - Lori Wykert): (304) 266-1607
Email (Event Coordinator - Lori Wykert): lwykert@wetzelwv.com
Fax: (304) 455-0935
Website: For more information on facilities, events, and booking, refer to the Wetzel County Commission website, particularly the 4-H Campground Layout section at wetzelwv.com/about-3-3, and the Wetzel County WVU Extension Office website at wetzel.ext.wvu.edu.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For those of us who call West Virginia home, the Wetzel County 4-H Camp is far more than just a place to park an RV; it’s a living, breathing part of our community fabric. It offers a unique blend of accessible outdoor recreation and vibrant local events, making it an ideal spot for West Virginians seeking both relaxation and engagement.

The reviews, while mixed in sentiment regarding specific incidents, underscore the camp's role as a major local venue. The comment "Was nice little fair, went to watch rodeo" highlights its appeal as a central gathering place for community events like the Town and Country Days Fair. These events are deeply ingrained in our local culture, providing entertainment, celebrating our agricultural heritage, and fostering a strong sense of community. For families, the opportunity to attend a hometown fair or rodeo, just a short drive away, is invaluable for creating cherished memories.

Beyond the large-scale events, the camp offers practical benefits for everyday use. Its RV camping sites with full hook-ups provide a convenient and affordable option for a local "staycation" or for friends and family visiting from out of town. The presence of Big Fishing Creek, complete with a kayak launch and fishing platform, speaks to the inherent West Virginia love for the outdoors. It’s a perfect spot for a casual afternoon of fishing or a peaceful paddle.

While the negative review about the truck incident points to the challenges of managing large, busy events and ensuring clear communication, it also implicitly acknowledges the camp's significant role in hosting such large-scale gatherings. The Wetzel County Commission’s ongoing commitment to improving the facilities, including ADA-compliant bleachers, demonstrates a dedication to ensuring the camp remains a welcoming and functional space for all residents. This continuous investment ensures that the Wetzel County 4-H Camp will continue to be a suitable, accessible, and beloved destination for locals to camp, celebrate, and connect for many years to come.