Eastern Ohio's rolling hills provide a diverse camping landscape near Beallsville, with elevations ranging from 900-1,300 feet. The region features mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple, and hickory trees. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, while summer averages 70-85°F with moderate humidity compared to other parts of Ohio.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: At Barkcamp State Park Campground, visitors can participate in organized astronomy events. "Oglebay comes out and has star gazing when it's in season. Clean and quiet," notes camper Fred R.
Putt-putt golf: The park offers a golf course, though some visitors note it needs maintenance. "They have a putt putt course but it's really dated and not kept up. This didn't bother us but some might use it," according to Andrea F. at Barkcamp.
Kayaking on smaller lakes: Clendening Lake Marina & Campground provides calm waters ideal for beginners. "The lake is amazing fishing spot with 9.9 hp boat restrictions. the locals are very nice," reports Tanner G. The marina offers well-designed kayak launches for easy water access.
Horseback riding: Multiple campgrounds in the region accommodate equestrians. "The camp is set up with a whole section for horse camping with tie outs and trailer/truck sites. Lots of bridle trails and a really quiet park," shares Andrea F. about Barkcamp State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: At Zion Retreat & RV Park, campers appreciate the spacing. "All sites are amongst the very tall trees. There are several ponds around the campground for fishing and bird watching," writes Kathryn P.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Beallsville host abundant deer populations. "Be sure to keep an eye out for deer as you come into the park! We had to stop a few times for them to move out of the driveway," reports Kathryn P. at Zion Retreat.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Beallsville, Ohio, Bigfoot Ridge offers themed accommodations just across the West Virginia border. "This yurt is 100% Bigfoot themed and has all the essentials including a shower house with laundry, a creek, and an amazing bed," says Bethany R.
Winter camping access: Unlike some seasonal operations, several campgrounds remain open year-round. "This park is very well groomed and most of the trails within the park had been cleared of vegetation so there was no fighting through the weeds," notes Ralph P. about Salt Fork State Park Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception can be spotty or nonexistent in many areas. "There is no cell service up there so be prepared, we lost it for about 20 minutes before the camp site," warns Ashley E. about Clendening Lake Marina.
Uneven terrain at campsites: Many campgrounds feature hillside locations with significant slopes. "We stayed here November 21, 2020... The campground had no water hookups, about 90% of the sites were not level (and....I mean by A LOT)," reports Connor M. about Salt Fork State Park.
Seasonal facility closures: Winter campers should verify which amenities remain available. "Showers closed but vault toilets available. They did have a mandatory two night stay, which they should reconsider for this time of year," notes Laura M. about Clendening Lake during March.
Weekend crowding: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "This park is very well groomed and most of the trails within the park had been cleared of vegetation so there was no fighting through the weeds. We were there Columbus weekend and it was hopping but everyone quieted by 10," reports Ralph P. about Salt Fork State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach alternatives: Tappan Lake Park Campground provides water recreation, though some caution about conditions. "The beach probably could have been better because of the Canadian goose 💩 all over (to be fair though I only stopped there once and it could have been cleaned up after I checked it out)," notes mgaston551.
Indoor recreation options: Some campgrounds offer weather-proof facilities. "2 pools, indoor and out- both of which were very clean and well maintained," reports Laura B. about Rocky Fork Ranch, providing alternatives when outdoor activities aren't possible.
General store access: Pack essentials as shopping options can be limited. "Make sure you don't forget anything or need gas, not much around," warns Aloma O. regarding Tappan Lake Park Campground.
Local ice cream stops: Find family treats nearby to enhance your camping trip. "If you go I recommend stopping up the road at the Deersville General Store for some great tasting ice cream," suggests mgaston551 about Tappan Lake.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement issues: At Tappan Lake, mgaston551 notes: "The lots in section 5 were all concrete full hookup sites and pretty much level. Water pressure was good and had no issues with the power."
Access road conditions: Interior roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "Roads in the campground are very rough with large potholes," warns Dave B. about Spring Valley Campground.
Winter camping considerations: Off-season camping requires preparation. "Wish they still had cable. Nice wide pull thrus," mentions Butch A. regarding Spring Valley Campground, where year-round camping is available.
TV reception limitations: Entertainment options may be restricted. "I will say if you are a tv watcher you may be out of luck here as no reception was found on any stations," reports mgaston551 about Tappan Lake Park Campground.
