Best Campgrounds near Gallipolis, OH

Gallipolis, Ohio sits along the Ohio River, with camping options ranging from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent areas. The Gallia County Junior Fairgrounds provides year-round camping with full hookups for RVs in an open field setting. Nearby, Krodel Park Campground offers both RV and tent camping with waterfront access from April through October. Several campgrounds in the area feature cabin accommodations, including Farver Acres and Kountry Resort Campground, which operates seasonally from April to October. Timbre Ridge Lake provides boat-in primitive camping with minimal amenities for those seeking a more secluded experience.

Road conditions and facility availability vary significantly by season across the region. Most developed campgrounds operate from spring through fall, with limited winter options outside of fairgrounds camping. As one camper noted, "Our stay at this incredible campground was nothing short of magical. With three spacious gravel sites nestled in a quiet, serene setting, it truly felt like our own private escape from the world." Water access points can become crowded during summer months, particularly at state parks and public recreation areas. Vault toilets are common at primitive sites, though maintenance schedules may be inconsistent. Cell service tends to be spotty in rural areas and wildlife management zones, with better coverage at campgrounds closer to Gallipolis proper.

Campers frequently mention the area's natural surroundings as a highlight of their experience. The Ohio River provides scenic views and recreation opportunities at several campgrounds. Wildlife sightings are common, particularly at more remote locations like Chief Cornstalk Wildlife Management Area, though facilities there are described as minimal and "not well kept" according to reviews. Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds - fairground camping tends to be utilitarian but convenient for overnight stops, while sites like Farver Acres offer more privacy and seclusion. Water pressure and hookup quality receive positive mentions at several RV parks, though bathroom cleanliness and maintenance emerge as common concerns in reviews of public facilities. Train noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those closer to rail lines near the river.

Best Camping Sites Near Gallipolis, Ohio (102)

    1. Krodel Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Point Pleasant, WV
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 675-1068

    $30 - $35 / night

    "It is minutes away from downtown Point Pleasant. I had spent the afternoon exploring the town and didn't feel like driving further."

    "Overall, I was looking for something close to downtown Point Pleasant and this was a good fit. There is no wifi and cell service was a little spotty (I had 1-3 bars at times for cell service)."

    2. Gallia County Junior Fairgrounds

    3 Reviews
    Gallipolis, OH
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 446-4120

    3. Farver Acres

    2 Reviews
    Gallipolis, OH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 208-3966

    $20 - $60 / night

    "The natural surroundings are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude."

    4. Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    109 Reviews
    South Bloomingville, OH
    47 miles
    Website

    $29 - $46 / night

    "There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."

    "If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."

    5. Huntington / Fox Fire KOA

    19 Reviews
    Ona, WV
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 743-5622

    "This is a very cozy park tucked in between US60 and I64. We are in site 14 and its not quite level, but they were generous with gravel so the drainage is good! No parking in puddles!"

    "I arrived after dark so I didn’t get a good look at the place but the entrance is well marked. The family restrooms are very nice and comfortable."

    6. Kountry Resort Campground

    5 Reviews
    West Columbia, OH
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 992-6488

    $20 - $80 / night

    "This campground has been around since the 1800s. It has a lot of permanent residents and we had a lot of fun checking out the different set ups.

    There are a lot of amenities but they need updated."

    7. Forked Run State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Long Bottom, OH
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 378-6206

    "We live close to this park and frequent there, sometimes just day trips. Tent camping is great and just like most places there are a few sites that are the best."

    "I discovered this park in 2019 while on a history road trip to Marietta, Ohio and Blanerhasset Island.  "

    8. Chief Cornstalk Wildlife Management Area

    1 Review
    Point Pleasant, WV
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 675-4380

    9. Timbre Ridge Lake

    1 Review
    Patriot, OH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 534-6500

    10. Lake Hope State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    New Plymouth, OH
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 596-5253

    "Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave...but..."

    "Lake Hope has plenty of recreational opportunities for everyone and the campground is close by! The campground is quiet and well kept."

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Recent Reviews near Gallipolis, OH

498 Reviews of 102 Gallipolis Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Kanawha State Forest

    Beautiful surroundings

    Had an overnight stay here on our way to Red River Gorge. This was a nice stop. Fairly quiet with the exception of an annoying dog that barked incessantly and the campers across from us that had to jump in their car and drive full speed to nowhere every 20 minutes. All night long…. Pick up your firewood elsewhere unless you prefer absurdly small bundles at $8.49 per. We had site 31. Some sites are on the small side. Big rigs beware. All in all, a good spot to rest and enjoy some tree therapy.

  • Aly M.
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Blennerhassett RV Park

    Friendly campground

    The owner was great. I called when I was on my way, he gave me a space number, and I was able to go straight to it. Weekly and monthly pricing is great too.

  • Alex A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Baileys Trail Tent Camping

    Peaceful Stay

    Wonderful little location. We drove for about 3 hours to get from where we are. Nice wide open space surrounded by woods. There were other campers but very friendly and had plenty of space to ourselves. Very nice bathroom/shower compared to what we expected. Will visit again.

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Great site, not a lot to do.

    Primitive Site 22 was fantastic, tucked away from everyone and quiet. Greenbo just doesn't have a lot to do if you arent boating. And that's okay. We just wanted a lazy trip anyway.

  • Adriyel P.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Ashland Huntington West KOA

    Good Basic KOA

    Plenty of spots, including pull thrus. More affordable than some of the nearby state “resort” parks, though without much in the way of shade or scenery. Staff is very kind, helpful, and understanding. Perfect for an overnight.

  • A
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Saint Albans Roadside Park

    Sweet spot!

    Wonderful overnight stop. Free electricity (30 amp). 3 spots available, first come first serve, no reservation. 2 nights max.

  • Tom B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Nice campground

    Been going to Greenbo since I was a kid in the 70s.  Facilities are well maintained and clean. The campground has been recently paved. Plenty of full service sites with sewer, but lots of other shady sites without sewer. Was there July 13-16, 2025 -- VERY HOT. Staff are friendly and just excellent. The operating hours of marina and other activities are out of date/wrong on the parks.ky.gov web site, just call the park for hours.

    Oh, if you want firewood, the campground office is at the marina. Go there, pay for the firewood, and it will be delivered to your site while you go enjoy the park.

    Mini golf is in good shape, get clubs and balls at marina. Be prepared, the course is hard, but in a fun way.

    Very bike friendly.

  • Angelo V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2025

    Kanawha State Forest

    A missed opportunity

    I made the rookie mistake of picking a place at the edge of how far I could travel in a day and didnt get in till after quiet hours. I stayed at site 42 near the back. It was a nice plot with electric, water, picnic table, and campfire right with flip over grill. I didnt get to ise more than the electric due to getting in so late. Lessons learned!

    After you get off the high way expect narrow twists and turns to reach the park, the park itself isnt nearly as bad as the stretch between highway and park enterence.

    There is a central bathroom/house with 2 toilets/showers, all disability friendly(I can only speak for the mens side).

    Dont expect to have signal. Im on tmobile and I had an occasional bar. Starlink worked allright if ai aimed it properly through the trees. The area over the road were fairly open.

    Campsites are all close together and you will be able to see 5+ neighbors from any site in this narrow valley camp ground

  • Bob B.
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Oak Hill Campground

    One-Night Adventure: Our Shakedown Trip in the New Travel Trailer

    Campsite Review for Site 6 – Gateway to Wayne National Forest

    Our recent camping trip at this campground was an excellent way to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Wayne National Forest. The serene forest setting provided a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor adventure, with the campground offering all the basics needed for a comfortable stay.

    We stayed at Site 6 in our travel trailer, enjoying the ease of a pull-through site. Although the water and electric hookups are on the opposite side unless you drive through the loop the wrong way, this setup has an unexpected benefit—it faces directly toward the woods. This orientation allowed us to savor the tranquility of the forest, adding a layer of privacy and a more intimate connection with nature.

    While the sites are decently sized, they are closely positioned with minimal separation, which might limit privacy in other areas. However, the majestic surroundings of Wayne National Forest more than make up for this. The proximity to hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and the peaceful ambiance of the trees create an immersive experience that’s hard to beat.

    All in all, this campground is a fantastic base for exploring Wayne National Forest. The combination of basic amenities, convenient access, and the enchanting forest environment makes it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.


Guide to Gallipolis

Camping sites near Gallipolis, Ohio range from primitive boat-in locations to full-hookup RV parks. The region sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with the Ohio River creating a natural border between Ohio and West Virginia. Local campgrounds typically experience hot, humid summers with highs in the mid-80s and mild winters, though most camping facilities close from November through March.

What to do

Boating and fishing at Timbre Ridge Lake: The secluded Timbre Ridge Lake offers primitive boat-in camping opportunities with basic amenities. One camper noted, "We spent one night of dispersal camping here. It was a beautiful area with a vault toilet. We felt safe enough to leave our windows only screened."

Explore historic sites: Visit the Hope Furnace near Lake Hope State Park to see remnants of Ohio's iron-producing past. A short drive from the campground allows you to visit the Moonville Tunnel. As one visitor explained, "The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike. Unfortunately, it is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers...still cool nonetheless."

Walking trails: The Lake Hope State Park Campground offers excellent hiking options. A reviewer shared, "Trails are superb...tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn. The terrain is undulating but very doable."

What campers like

Secluded camping options: Farver Acres provides a private camping experience with only three sites. A camper remarked, "We didn't see another person for four full days — it was such a rare and welcome break from traditional campgrounds. The wildlife here is abundant and delightful."

Full hookups at affordable rates: The Gallia County Junior Fairgrounds offers practical amenities for travelers. One reviewer noted, "Just a big campground with full hook up," while another mentioned, "Sites are close together in rows. No obstructing foliage. Each site has electric, water and sewer."

Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature lakes or river access. At Krodel Park, a camper observed, "Nice lake and splash pool for the kids. Paved 1 mile path around the lake," while another mentioned, "There is a park with a trail that you can walk or bike around."

What you should know

Primitive facilities at some locations: At Chief Cornstalk Wildlife Management Area, facilities are minimal. A camper reported, "There is an out house that looks like something from an 80's horror movie... There is a sistern hand water pump (I didn't test it). There is a place to put trash but no dump station for refuse."

Limited connectivity: Many campgrounds in the region have spotty cell service. At Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, a visitor noted, "There is no wifi and cell service was a little spotty (I had 1-3 bars at times for cell service)."

Cash-only policies: Several campgrounds don't accept credit cards. At Krodel Park, a camper mentioned, "Cash only or check is also a bit inconvenient and archaic in 2025," while another stated, "They only accept cash or check and you pay when you get there."

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available near Gallipolis, Ohio?

Several campgrounds are available within driving distance of Gallipolis, Ohio. Gallia County Junior Fairgrounds is located near Gallipolis and offers drive-in access with water, toilets, and accommodations for larger RVs. Forked Run State Park Campground is another nearby option with beautiful surroundings and good facilities for camping. Other options in the region include Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, Krodel Park Campground near Point Pleasant, and Kountry Resort Campground near Racine. For those willing to travel a bit further, Lake Hope State Park and Tar Hollow State Park provide additional camping opportunities with various amenities.

Can I find tent camping options near Gallipolis?

Yes, there are several tent camping options near Gallipolis. Tar Hollow State Park Campground offers a dedicated tent-only area at their North Ridge Campground, providing a secluded experience where you'll feel immersed in nature. The campground features pit latrines and requires visitors to check in at the Camp General Store for permits. Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area is another good option, with Iron Ridge Campground offering some tent sites that sit below the road for added privacy. Additionally, Timbre Ridge Lake provides boat-in tent camping for a more remote experience, while Zaleski State Forest offers primitive camping opportunities for hikers looking for a genuine backcountry experience.

Are there RV rental services in Gallipolis, Ohio?

While there aren't dedicated RV rental services based directly in Gallipolis, Ohio, visitors can find options in the broader region. Hocking Hills State Park Campground is RV-friendly and a popular destination that might have connections to rental services in the area. Krodel Park Campground near Point Pleasant is another big-rig-friendly location that caters to RV campers. For those seeking rentals, checking with regional RV dealers, nationwide rental companies like Cruise America or RVshare, or inquiring with local campgrounds about recommended rental services would be most effective. Many visitors arrange RV rentals in larger nearby cities and drive to Gallipolis.