Rippling Waters Campground

rippling waters campground photos

For us West Virginians, finding a peaceful retreat that's "easy to get to and not too far from home" is a true blessing. We cherish our state's rugged beauty and the tranquility it offers, and when it comes to camping, a place that feels like a natural extension of our own welcoming communities is always a top choice. Rippling Waters Campground, nestled in Kenna, is precisely that kind of gem – a beautiful, relaxing haven that beckons us to unwind and reconnect with nature without venturing too far off the beaten path.

This isn't just any campground; it's a place with a rich history, operating since 1978 and originally founded with the goal of providing a wholesome, family-oriented environment. It's a testament to timeless values and genuine hospitality, evident in the "super friendly and helpful" staff who go the extra mile to make visitors feel right at home. Whether you're pulling in with a large RV, seeking the comfort of a cabin, or embracing the traditional charm of tent camping, Rippling Waters offers a serene atmosphere that encourages relaxation and exploration.

Many of us are looking for a quiet escape, a place where the sounds of nature replace the everyday hustle, and Rippling Waters delivers on this promise. Visitors consistently highlight its "serene atmosphere" and note that if you're "looking for quiet, this is the place!" While you'll feel pleasantly secluded, you're still within reach of popular West Virginia attractions like Charleston and the awe-inspiring New River Gorge Bridge, making it an ideal base for both relaxation and adventure. It’s a truly West Virginian experience, where kindness and nature converge.

Rippling Waters Campground is conveniently located at 2771 Middle Fork Rd, Kenna, WV 25248, USA. This address places it in a prime position within West Virginia, offering a sense of peaceful seclusion while remaining highly accessible for us locals. The campground is situated approximately 4 miles off I-77 (Exit 116, Haines Branch Road), making it remarkably easy to reach for travelers coming from various parts of the state or beyond. You take a left at the stop sign onto RT 21 North for about a mile, then turn right just after crossing a bridge onto Middle Fork Road, and the campground office driveway is on the left after approximately 3 miles, following a small pond.

This accessibility is a significant advantage for West Virginians looking for a quick and straightforward escape. Whether you're driving an RV, pulling a travel trailer, or heading out in a family car, the route to Rippling Waters is generally manageable. While some reviews mention the county road into the park can be "curving and a little narrow in places," it's consistently described as paved and navigable, even for big rigs, with the advice to "just take it easy and watch for oncoming traffic." The slight winding approach only adds to the feeling of entering a tranquil retreat, removing you from the immediate bustle of the interstate.

Beyond its immediate surroundings, Rippling Waters Campground serves as an excellent central point for exploring other parts of West Virginia. It's conveniently located about 20 miles from Charleston, the state capital, offering opportunities for city exploration, dining, and cultural attractions. Furthermore, its location allows for day trips to magnificent natural wonders such as the New River Gorge Bridge, an iconic West Virginia landmark, and other beautiful waterfalls scattered throughout the region. For those with a taste for the unique, even a trek out to the Mothman Museum is within reach, demonstrating the variety of experiences accessible from this Kenna basecamp.

Rippling Waters Campground provides a wide array of services designed to accommodate various camping styles and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests. Their goal is to offer a wholesome, family-oriented place to enjoy nature and quality time with loved ones.

• Diverse Campsite Options:

  • Camper/RV Spaces: They offer spacious pull-through and back-in RV sites, all equipped with full hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp electric, water, and sewer). These sites are available at affordable prices, with options for overnight, weekly, and monthly stays. Each spot accommodates one rig and up to three personal vehicles.

  • Deluxe Cabins: Two deluxe cabins are available, accommodating up to 4 people each with one full-size and one queen-size bed. Both cabins overlook a 7-acre lake, providing scenic views. These cabins include amenities like kitchens, offering a more comfortable, glamping-style experience.

  • Rustic Cabins: For a closer-to-nature stay with more shelter than a tent, there are 17 rustic cabins. These are furnished with three bunk beds and a single bed, comfortably fitting 4-7 people. They are ideal for backpackers, hikers, or travelers seeking a basic shelter.

  • Tent Camping: Nestled in the "Sleepy Hollow" section, a few tent camping spots are available for traditional campers. These are conveniently located within steps of the office and a bathhouse.

  • Group Lodges: For larger gatherings, Rippling Waters offers Warner Lodge (fitting up to 36 people) and McCormick Lodge (fitting up to 18 people). Both lodges are equipped with full kitchens, bathrooms, and dorm-style sleeping areas, perfect for group events, family reunions, or retreats.

• Clean Bathroom Facilities: The campground provides clean facilities, including a larger bathroom near the entrance and smaller single-use rooms (with sink, toilet, and shower) scattered around the grounds for convenience. Reviews highlight their cleanliness and upkeep.

• Outdoor Recreation:

  • 7-Acre Lake: A beautiful lake is available for fishing (catch and release only), containing catfish, bass, bluegill, crappie, and carp. It's also a scenic spot to simply enjoy the view.

  • Swimming Pool: A sparkling swimming pool is on-site for family fun, complete with lounge chairs and a covered pavilion. While an old pool location was mentioned by past visitors, a current pool is operational and well-maintained.

  • Hiking Trails: 150 acres of the campground are wooded and ready to explore, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature.

  • Planned Activities (Upcoming): Future plans include adding activities such as kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boating, stand-up paddleboarding on White Swan Lake, putt-putt/mini-golf, disc-golf, field archery, a shooting range, pickleball, horseshoe, cornhole, a multi-sport field, and an outdoor gym. While some may be currently available, many are listed as future additions related to membership benefits.

• Friendly and Helpful Staff: A consistent highlight in reviews, the staff are described as very friendly, hospitable, and helpful, even going above and beyond (like showing old pool locations). They work to accommodate guest needs, including finding spots with better internet reception.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground, but they must be on a leash at all times, and pet waste must be properly picked up and disposed of. Pets are generally not permitted in amenity areas, buildings, or rental cabins.

• Camp Store: A small camp store is available, offering a few essential items for convenience.

• Connectivity (Limited/Variable): While some visitors found spots with better internet reception for remote work, other reviews indicate that Wi-Fi and cell service can be limited or hit-and-miss, especially in cabins. This implies a focus on natural escape over constant connectivity for many areas.

• Event Facilities: Beyond camping, Rippling Waters also offers large event facilities, including a conference/convention center and a barn-style building suitable for weddings, family reunions, and other group gatherings.

Rippling Waters Campground offers a compelling array of features that make it a highly attractive destination for us West Virginians seeking a peaceful and enriching outdoor experience:

• Serene and Peaceful Atmosphere: The most consistently highlighted feature is its quiet, relaxing, and serene environment. This "beautiful retreat" is praised for its ability to help visitors unwind and refresh, providing a true escape from the noise and demands of daily life. For those seeking quiet, this campground delivers.

• Friendly and Accommodating Staff: The staff at Rippling Waters consistently receive high praise for being "super friendly and helpful." Their hospitality, willingness to assist with special requests (like finding better internet reception for remote work), and general welcoming demeanor significantly enhance the guest experience, making visitors feel truly at home.

• Spacious Sites and Privacy: The park encompasses a large area, and reviewers note that the RV sites, in particular, are spacious, with some even described as "long driveways" that lead to the lake. This layout ensures that campers do not feel crowded, offering a good degree of privacy and room to spread out.

• On-Site Lake for Fishing: The presence of a 7-acre lake for catch-and-release fishing (stocked with catfish, bass, bluegill, crappie, and carp) is a major draw. It provides a relaxing activity right on the premises, perfect for all ages, and adds to the picturesque scenery.

• Diverse Accommodation Options: From full hook-up RV sites (including spacious pull-thrus) and traditional tent spots to charming deluxe and rustic cabins, and even large group lodges, Rippling Waters caters to a wide variety of camping preferences and group sizes. This versatility makes it accessible for solo travelers, families, and large gatherings.

• Clean Facilities: While some facilities might be "a little dated," reviews consistently emphasize their cleanliness. The well-maintained grounds and restrooms contribute significantly to a comfortable and pleasant stay for all guests.

• Proximity to Key West Virginia Attractions: Despite its secluded feel, Rippling Waters is strategically located near major West Virginia points of interest. It's a convenient base for day trips to Charleston for urban exploration and cultural sites, and to the awe-inspiring New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding natural areas for world-class outdoor adventures like hiking and sightseeing.

• Pet-Friendly Environment: The campground welcomes pets (with leash and cleanup requirements), allowing West Virginians to bring their beloved furry companions along for their outdoor adventures, making it a true family destination.

Rippling Waters Campground offers competitive rates for its diverse range of accommodations, from RV sites to cabins and group lodges. While specific, ongoing promotional "special offers" beyond their standard pricing structure are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, it's always recommended for us West Virginians to inquire directly about any current deals or discounts when planning a stay. As a non-profit organization focused on providing a wholesome experience, they may have flexible offerings or programs.

Their website does highlight a unique "Become a Member" program that provides significant value and can be considered a form of special offer or loyalty program. For an annual fee of $399.00, membership includes:

• Day passes to the campground for you and your family to enjoy facilities (fishing, picnicking, hiking) even if not camping overnight.

• A $5.00 discount on tent camping rates and van camping spots.

• Access to the swimming pool.

• Eligibility for upcoming activities such as kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boating, and stand-up paddleboarding on White Swan Lake.

• Access to upcoming game and sporting areas, including putt-putt/mini-golf, disc-golf, field archery, a shooting range, pickleball, horseshoe, cornhole, a multi-sport field, and an outdoor gym.

• Eligibility for a 5% to 10% discount at participating local eateries and shops in the Ripley area.

In terms of standard rates (as of the last available information):

• Overnight RV sites (full hookup): $55.00/night

• Weekly RV sites: $255.00/week

• Monthly RV sites: $735.00/month

• Deluxe Cabins: $130.00 Sunday - Thursday, $155.00 Friday & Saturday, $825.00/week, $1,900.00/month

• Rustic Cabins: $65.00/day

• Tent Camping: $40.00/day

• Group Lodges: Warner Lodge ($525/day for 36 people), McCormick Lodge ($425/day for 18 people)

It’s always advisable to contact Rippling Waters Campground directly to confirm current rates, inquire about availability, and ask about any unadvertised specials or discounts that might be available for your specific travel dates or group size. Given their friendly approach, they are likely to be helpful in finding the best fit for your needs.

Planning your serene retreat to Rippling Waters Campground is made easy by their direct and accessible contact information. The friendly and helpful staff are ready to assist you with reservations, answer any questions you may have, and ensure your stay is as pleasant as possible.

Address: 2771 Middle Fork Rd, Kenna, WV 25248, USA

Phone: (304) 988-2607

Mobile Phone: +1 304-988-2607

For the most immediate and personalized assistance, calling Rippling Waters Campground directly by phone is highly recommended. This allows you to speak with a team member who can provide real-time availability for RV sites, cabins, or lodges, discuss specific site features, and clarify any park policies or amenities. They can also offer precise directions and advice on navigating the local roads to the campground.

Additionally, for those who prefer written communication, the campground also lists an email address: ripplingwaterscamp@gmail.com. This can be useful for non-urgent inquiries, sending follow-up questions, or for receiving confirmation details after a phone reservation.

It's always a good idea to confirm your reservation and any specific requests or needs you might have well in advance, especially during peak seasons or for larger group bookings. The team at Rippling Waters Campground is dedicated to ensuring a smooth booking process and a welcoming experience from the moment you get in touch.

For us West Virginians, Rippling Waters Campground offers an almost ideal blend of what we seek in an outdoor escape: peace, genuine hospitality, and convenient access to the natural beauty and unique attractions that define our state. It's perfectly suitable for locals because it provides a familiar, welcoming environment that truly feels like "home away from home."

The overwhelming sense of "quiet" and "serene atmosphere" is a major draw. We often seek a retreat from the noise of daily life, and Rippling Waters delivers a genuinely relaxing environment where you can unwind amidst the sounds of nature. This peaceful setting, combined with the spacious, uncrowded sites, ensures a true sense of privacy that many other campgrounds simply can't offer. It’s the perfect place to truly decompress and recharge your spirit.

The "super friendly and helpful" staff deeply resonates with our West Virginia values. We appreciate good, honest hospitality, and the willingness of the team to go above and beyond, even indulging visitors with nostalgic trips to old landmarks, speaks volumes about their commitment to guest satisfaction. This personal touch makes a significant difference, fostering a comfortable and trusting atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.

Furthermore, its accessibility from major routes like I-77 means it’s "easy to get to and not too far from home," making it a practical choice for weekend getaways or longer vacations without extensive travel. Yet, despite this convenience, you still feel beautifully secluded. The proximity to our vibrant capital, Charleston, and the awe-inspiring New River Gorge Bridge means we can seamlessly combine peaceful camping with exploration of our state's iconic cultural and natural landmarks, making the most of our leisure time.

Whether you're an RVer, a tent camper, or prefer the comfort of a cabin, Rippling Waters caters to diverse needs, making it accessible for families, couples, or individuals. The potential for future amenities and the existing on-site lake for fishing only add to its appeal. For West Virginians looking for a tranquil, friendly, and genuinely restorative outdoor experience right here in our beautiful state, Rippling Waters Campground is an undeniable gem.

Rippling Waters Campground

2771 Middle Fork Rd, Kenna, WV 25248, USA