BECKLEY W.Va. (WVDN) – Beckley is offering a new camping experience nestled in the area of the New River Gorge National Park, which is drawing outdoor enthusiasts to southern West Virginia, where a growing interest in nature-based travel is helping to reshape rural tourism. Owners John Mize and his wife, Janet Mize, are excited for their new “glamping” venture.
“We wanted to make a short-term rental and eventually we decided that we wanted it to be a couple’s retreat. So, you know, that’s kind of what we did. And we didn’t want to do the ordinary run of the mill domes. There’s a lot of domes in the area. They’re really cold in the winter. They’re really hot in the summer. They’re just not very comfortable,” said Mize.
Country Domes, LLC, is a family-run short-term rental featuring a geodesic dome accommodation that recently opened in the Beckley area. The property combines the scenic solitude of the Appalachian Mountains with the comforts of modern lodging, offering guests a unique way to enjoy the outdoors without “roughing” it.
Set against a backdrop of rolling hills, wooded trails and open skies, the dome-shaped structure features insulated walls, heating and cooling systems and a private bathroom and kitchenette. The dome provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest, making it a cozy but immersive base for hiking, fishing or simply relaxing under the stars.
Mize says, “I mean, we just we just opened business in May. It’s a project that we’ve been working on for two and a half years, maybe a little longer.” The bookings are already nearly full through October, according to Mize.
Guests have access to a fire pit, picnic area and nearby trail systems. There are no pets or children, as Mize wants to keep the Dome experience for couples. There are also additional packages one can purchase to make their stay more romantic and personal. The dome is near many local attractions, including the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, the Greenbrier River Trail and the town of Lewisburg.
While traditional camping remains popular in the Mountain State, this dome-style glamping has become a rising trend. According to the U.S. Travel Association, travelers are increasingly looking for authentic outdoor experiences paired with high-quality amenities. For rural communities in West Virginia, this trend presents an opportunity to boost local economies and support sustainable tourism.
West Virginia welcomed more than 15 million visitors in 2023, many of whom were drawn to its parks, rivers and remote cabin stays. In Greenbrier County alone, tourists spent nearly $400 million in 2022, according to state tourism data. Much of that revenue is tied to outdoor recreation and overnight lodging.
The team behind Country Domes says they are committed to environmentally conscious development. The dome was built with minimal land disruption and encourages guests to follow “Leave No Trace” principles. Plans are underway to add more amenities and more domes in the future.
“We wanted to really put some money into it, make it luxurious, make it nice and cater to just two people, having them be able to come out and relax and reconnect, get away from the hustle and bustle life and work, just focus on each other and just make it a romantic experience.”
Country Domes is currently open for reservations. Rates vary by season. For more information or to book a stay, visit countrydomes.com or follow CountryDomes, LLC on social media.
