Hillbilly Rentals Resort & Campground

Located at 2192 Jerry W Hwy in Wilkinson, West Virginia, Hillbilly Rentals Resort & Campground presents itself as a comprehensive hub for enthusiasts of outdoor recreation. Functioning as more than just a campground, it operates as a multifaceted travel agency, offering lodging, a convenience store, and, most notably, UTV rentals for the nearby trail systems. The business aims to provide a complete package for those seeking adventure travel, particularly riders looking to access the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. However, customer experiences paint a complex picture, revealing areas of exceptional service alongside significant operational concerns that warrant careful consideration from potential visitors.

Praised for Service and Prime Location

A recurring theme in positive feedback is the commendable level of customer service, often attributed to its family-run nature. Several patrons have shared stories of the owners, Shawnda and Summer, going to great lengths to accommodate guests. In one notable instance, a traveler who encountered a booking issue with another establishment late at night called Hillbilly Rentals, and the owner graciously stayed late to ensure they were settled in. This flexibility and personal touch are frequently highlighted. Another guest who experienced a minor mechanical issue with a rented side-by-side reported that the staff promptly swapped the vehicle without hassle, allowing their group's off-road adventures to continue uninterrupted. This responsiveness in resolving problems on the spot is a significant asset.

The strategic location is another major selling point. Situated just 2.5 miles from the Bearwallow Trail Head, it offers nearly direct access to a network of popular trails, which is a crucial factor for riders planning their trips. This proximity minimizes travel time and maximizes time on the trails, a detail highly valued within the off-roading community. The convenience of having lodging, a store, and rentals in one place simplifies the entire process of holiday planning for visitors.

Accommodations and On-Site Amenities

Hillbilly Rentals offers a variety of lodging options, including camper rentals and full hookup RV sites. For RV travelers, the availability of 50-amp service is a specific feature that has been praised as being hard to find in the area. The rental campers are often described as clean and well-equipped, providing everything needed for a comfortable stay, including creekside settings with picnic tables, firepits, and grills.

Perhaps the most consistently praised feature is the bathhouse. Multiple visitors have described it as exceptionally clean, modern, and recently renovated. Terms like "super nice" and "cleanest bathhouse" are common, with specific mentions of high-pressure waterfall shower heads and continuous hot water. For a campground, where bathhouse quality can be very inconsistent, this stands out as a significant positive and a clear focus of investment for the owners.

Significant Concerns Regarding Rentals and Maintenance

Despite the positive aspects, a number of serious issues have been reported by customers, creating a stark contrast in experiences. These concerns primarily fall into two categories: disputes over UTV rentals and deposits, and inconsistent property maintenance and safety.

UTV Rental and Deposit Disputes

The most alarming feedback involves the UTV rental process, specifically concerning security deposits. One customer detailed a highly problematic experience where, after renting a UTV, only a fraction of their $1,000 deposit was returned. The justification provided by the business was that both rear tires were found to have punctures. Critically, this damage was allegedly discovered two days *after* the vehicle had been returned. The renter insisted the vehicle was in fine mechanical order upon return. This practice of inspecting vehicles long after the customer has left raises serious questions about fairness and transparency. The same customer was also charged a $50 cleaning fee despite claiming to have returned the UTV cleaner than it was at pickup, where the passenger seat was reportedly muddy.

This incident directly contradicts another review that praised the business for having "No hidden fees, gimmicks, for rentals." This discrepancy suggests that while some transactions may be smooth, there is a potential risk for significant financial disputes. For any tour operator, clear and immediate post-rental inspection protocols are essential for building trust. Potential renters should be aware of these reported issues and would be well-advised to insist on a joint inspection of the vehicle upon return and to thoroughly document its condition with photos before and after use to protect themselves from similar claims.

Inconsistent Upkeep and Safety Hazards

The second major area of concern is the inconsistency in property maintenance, which seems to fluctuate dramatically, especially during busy periods. While some guests laud the cleanliness of the facilities, others report serious neglect. One visitor staying over a busy Labor Day weekend noted that the bathrooms were not serviced a single time during their three-night stay. They described two stalls being out of toilet paper and another remaining clogged with feces for the entire duration of their visit. This experience is a world away from the glowing reviews of the "cleanest bathhouse," indicating that operational standards may falter under pressure.

Beyond cleanliness, potential safety hazards have also been cited. A guest staying at campsite 6 reported that the electrical pole had visible evidence of a previous fire, causing them to be uneasy about its stability and safety. They also noted the presence of nails and other sharp objects scattered around the base of the pole, creating a risk for vehicle tires. Minor in-unit maintenance issues, such as a broken Keurig coffee maker that went unfixed and dead bugs in a camper shower, have also been mentioned, contributing to a sense that attention to detail can be lacking.

Conclusion: A Destination with Both High Praise and High Caution

Hillbilly Rentals Resort & Campground is a business of dualities. On one hand, it offers a prime location for outdoor recreation, backed by a family-run team that has proven to be incredibly accommodating and helpful in critical moments. The quality of its bathhouse facilities and the convenience of its on-site services provide a strong foundation for a positive experience. On the other hand, the severe issues reported regarding UTV rental deposits and inconsistent, sometimes hazardous, site maintenance are significant red flags that cannot be ignored.

For potential customers, the decision to book here may depend on their tolerance for risk and their primary activities. If renting a high-value UTV, it is imperative to be proactive about documenting the vehicle's condition and clarifying the deposit return procedure in writing. For those camping, especially during peak season, it may be wise to inquire about specific site conditions and be prepared for potential inconsistencies in facility upkeep. Ultimately, this business offers the potential for a fantastic base camp for adventure travel, but it also carries documented risks that require visitors to be vigilant and well-informed before committing to their travel arrangements.