Deer hunters fill sites come November, and on summer weeknights the loop can be nearly empty. Bicentennial Campground sits on AEP-managed land outside Caldwell, Ohio, where a small lake draws anglers and kayakers and a network of trails connects directly to the Buckeye Trail. It's free, first-come-first-served, and requires a downloadable permit before arrival.
Sites vary considerably. Some sit on a hill with open exposure and generous space, while waterfront lots like site 5 sit closer together near the pond. Shade is inconsistent: a few sites have good tree cover, others have none at all. There is no electric hookup at any site, so generators or battery setups are necessary for anyone who needs power. Vault toilets are on-site, though reviews note inconsistent upkeep and occasional litter. Picnic tables and individual trash cans are provided at each site, and water pumps are present, though their seasonal availability has varied across visits.
Cell service is essentially nonexistent here, even with a signal booster. Roads into the campground are drive-in accessible and reported in good condition, including the route from I-70, with sites accommodating RVs up to 35 feet. The pond comes alive at night with frogs and insects, and birding is a draw during the day. One reviewer described it as "a nice refuge for an overnight," which captures the practical appeal well. Campers wanting more options in the area can also check out Big Muskie Campground — Jesse Owens State Park or browse places to camp around Cumberland. If free camping with lake access and trail connectivity is what you're after, Bicentennial is worth the permit download.
Description
This Campground is quiet and secluded, A beautiful place to unplug and take in the scenery.
Reservation Info
No reservation needed
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBicentennial Campground is located in Ohio near Cumberland
Address
10766 Lincoln Highway
Caldwell, OH 43724
Coordinates
39.7708452 N
81.64406054 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Bicentennial Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 41 min from Parkersburg, WV
- 1 hr 5 min from Wheeling, WV
- 1 hr 34 min from Weirton, WV
















