Smith's Landing Campground

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Ohio River in Chester, West Virginia, Smith's Landing Campground offers a unique and intimate camping experience for locals seeking a peaceful riverside retreat. While it may be described as a "small" campground, its appeal lies in its stunning views, convenient location, and the exceptional hospitality provided by its managers. For West Virginia residents, particularly those in the northern panhandle or working on projects in the vicinity, Smith's Landing provides a welcoming and practical base for short visits or extended stays.

The essence of Smith's Landing Campground, as highlighted by numerous appreciative visitors, is its laid-back atmosphere and the accommodating nature of its hosts, Gladys and George. Reviewers consistently praise them as "great people" who are "very reasonably priced" and go out of their way to be "very helpful." This personalized approach creates a friendly and almost "Mayberry"-like community feel, making campers feel right at home, whether they are on a quick stopover or setting up for a longer duration while working nearby. It's this genuine warmth and helpfulness that truly defines the experience at Smith's Landing.

This descriptive article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Smith's Landing Campground, highlighting its advantageous location, the essential services it provides, its charming features, and why it stands out as an excellent choice for West Virginians looking to enjoy riverside tranquility or seeking convenient accommodation for work. From its scenic outlooks to its accommodating management, Smith's Landing Campground offers a distinct and welcoming option for your next adventure in the Mountain State.

Smith's Landing Campground boasts a prime riverside location at 163 Ferry Rd, Chester, WV 26034, USA. This address places it directly on the banks of the majestic Ohio River, offering campers unparalleled views and direct access to the waterfront. Chester itself is a small, friendly town in the northernmost tip of West Virginia, easily accessible from various points in the state and neighboring Pennsylvania and Ohio.

The campground's proximity to major routes makes it a convenient stop for West Virginia residents. While Ferry Road provides direct access to the campground, its connection to the broader road network ensures a straightforward journey. For those working in the area, such as at the Beaver Valley Power Station, its location is particularly advantageous, as noted by a long-term guest who always stays there when working at "Beaver Valley for Nuclear outage right on the Ohio River." This highlights its practicality as a lodging option for traveling professionals.

Being situated in Chester means campers at Smith's Landing also benefit from local conveniences. As one reviewer mentioned, there’s a "grocery store at the top of the hill," indicating that essential supplies are easily within reach. This blend of serene riverside camping with convenient access to local amenities creates a balanced experience, allowing campers to enjoy the tranquility of the river while still having necessities close by. Its location directly on the Ohio River also offers unique opportunities for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the river's activity from your campsite.

Smith's Landing Campground offers fundamental services designed to provide a comfortable and reasonably priced stay, particularly appealing to those seeking a no-frills, practical camping experience. While it's noted as "small" with "older utilities," the focus is on providing reliable essentials and excellent customer service. Based on available information and customer reviews, here are the services you can expect:

• RV Sites with Electrical Hookups: The campground provides sites with "30 amp service," indicating that electrical hookups are available for RVs. This allows campers to power their vehicles and appliances, ensuring a degree of comfort. While 30 amp is standard, it's suitable for most RVs, especially older models or those not requiring high power consumption.
• Water Hookups: Given the provision of electricity and a focus on RVs, it's highly probable that water hookups are also available at the sites, allowing campers to connect directly to a fresh water supply.
• Sewer Hookups: While not explicitly detailed for every site, the presence of "a few full timers" and "units stored there" suggests that some sites likely offer sewer hookups for extended stays, providing the convenience of direct wastewater disposal. Campers should inquire about full hookup availability when booking.
• Accommodating Management: Gladys and George are consistently praised for being "great people" and "very helpful in accommodating us." This indicates a high level of personalized customer service, where managers are willing to assist campers with their needs and make their stay as comfortable as possible.
• Grass Sites: The campground features "grass sites," providing a natural and comfortable surface for setting up your RV or tent. This offers a more rustic feel compared to paved lots.
• Long-Term Stays / Full-Timers Welcome: The presence of "a few full timers in it and what appears to be units stored there" strongly suggests that Smith's Landing accommodates long-term residents and offers options for seasonal or annual stays, making it an excellent choice for those working in the area or seeking an extended riverside living experience.
• No Shower Facilities: A key piece of information from reviews is "there are no showers there." Campers should be aware of this and plan accordingly, either by utilizing their RV's facilities or making alternative arrangements.

Smith's Landing Campground, despite its small size and older infrastructure, boasts several distinct features and highlights that make it a charming and practical choice for specific types of campers. These attributes contribute to its unique appeal, particularly for those who prioritize location and a relaxed atmosphere:

• Great Views of the Ohio River: This is arguably the most significant highlight. Campers enjoy "Great views of the river and next door Marina," offering picturesque scenery, opportunities for river watching, and a tranquil backdrop for their stay.
• Exceptional Hospitality from Management: Gladys and George are consistently praised as "great people" and "very helpful in accommodating us." This friendly and accommodating management style is a major draw, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all guests.
• Direct Proximity to a Marina: Being "next door Marina" adds another layer of appeal for boaters or those who enjoy marina activity, potentially offering easy access for launching or docking boats.
• Practical for Long-Term Stays and Traveling Professionals: The campground is noted for having "a few full timers in it" and being suitable for those working nearby, such as at "Beaver Valley for Nuclear outage." This highlights its utility as a convenient and stable lodging option for extended periods, especially for those in transient jobs.
• Quiet, Non-Commercial Atmosphere: The "small" nature of the campground and its focus on more permanent or working residents likely contributes to a quieter, less touristy atmosphere. This can be a benefit for those seeking genuine peace and a break from busy resort-style campgrounds.
• Reasonably Priced: A reviewer explicitly mentions "very reasonably priced," making it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers or those needing cost-effective long-term accommodation.
• **"Mayberry"-like Community Feel:** One reviewer described it as "almost like a Mayberry," suggesting a friendly, close-knit, and safe community vibe, which can be very appealing for those looking for a sense of belonging during their stay.

Given the nature of Smith's Landing Campground, with its focus on practical accommodations and long-term stays for individuals like those working on specific projects, publicly advertised promotions in the traditional sense might be less common than at large recreational campgrounds. However, its "very reasonably priced" nature is already a significant draw.

For West Virginia locals or those planning to stay for an extended period, it is highly recommended to directly inquire about any potential long-term rates, weekly discounts, or monthly specials that might be available. Campgrounds catering to "full timers" or those on job assignments often have flexible pricing structures that become more economical with longer commitments. The accommodating nature of Gladys and George also suggests they may be open to discussing options that fit your specific needs or duration of stay.

The best and most reliable way to learn about any current offers or pricing advantages at Smith's Landing Campground is to contact them directly using the provided phone numbers. A friendly conversation can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information, helping you secure the best value for your riverside stay in Chester, WV.

To inquire about availability, rates, or any specific needs for your stay at Smith's Landing Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 163 Ferry Rd, Chester, WV 26034, USA

Phone: (304) 552-2918

Mobile Phone: +1 304-552-2918

It is always advisable to call ahead, especially if you are planning an extended stay or require specific site features. Gladys and George, the helpful managers, will be able to provide the most current information and assist you in arranging your visit to their welcoming riverside campground in Chester, WV.

For West Virginia residents, particularly those in the northern panhandle or individuals seeking a convenient and no-frills lodging solution for work or extended stays, Smith's Landing Campground in Chester offers a unique and highly suitable option. While it's noted as a "small" campground with "older utilities" and "no showers," its strengths lie in its prime location, affordability, and, most importantly, the genuine warmth of its management.

The primary appeal for locals is the breathtaking views of the Ohio River and the adjacent marina, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for any stay. This natural beauty, combined with its "very reasonably priced" rates, makes it an attractive choice for those on a budget or simply seeking good value without unnecessary frills. For West Virginians working on projects in the area, such as at Beaver Valley, its location directly on the Ohio River offers unparalleled convenience, allowing for short commutes and a stable base.

What truly elevates Smith's Landing is the exceptional hospitality of Gladys and George. They are consistently praised as "great people" and "very helpful in accommodating us," fostering an "almost like a Mayberry" community feel. This personal touch and willingness to assist make visitors feel truly welcomed and comfortable, transforming a simple stay into a pleasant and memorable experience, akin to visiting friends.

While the absence of showers means campers need to be self-sufficient or make alternative arrangements, this is often a minor trade-off for the affordability, riverside views, and accommodating atmosphere. For those seeking a quiet, unpretentious, and friendly place to park their RV or set up camp for a few days or even longer, Smith's Landing Campground provides a charming and practical solution right here in West Virginia.

Smith's Landing Campground

163 Ferry Rd, Chester, WV 26034, USA