141 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options around Clifton, Ohio include both free and fee-based sites within the Jesse Owens State Park area and several state parks within driving distance. Several campgrounds offer waterfront camping, particularly near the Muskingum River, with most providing basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The area features a mix of RV-friendly locations with full hookups like Ashland RV Park and Wolf Run State Park Campground, as well as more primitive tent camping areas within the Jesse Owens State Park system.
Access to camping varies significantly throughout the region, with some sites requiring reservations while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Many of the Jesse Owens State Park campgrounds offer free camping for up to 14-day stays. "This was an AEP ReCreation campsite. It has recently been purchased by the State of Ohio," noted one camper about Maple Grove Campground, highlighting the transition of these lands from AEP (American Electric Power) reclaimed mining areas to state park status. Cell phone coverage can be limited throughout the area, with Verizon typically providing the best service. Roads are generally well-maintained, though visitors should be prepared for gravel roads leading to more remote campgrounds.
The campgrounds within the Jesse Owens State Park system receive positive reviews for their peaceful settings and value. Several campers appreciate the free camping opportunities and natural surroundings. Tent sites at Riversedge Campground along the water's edge are particularly popular, with one visitor sharing, "Our tent was right on the river and Kelli was the best host ever!" Water access is a common highlight among reviewers, with fishing, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities available at several locations. While amenities vary widely between campgrounds, most provide basic facilities like vault toilets and trash disposal. The more developed campgrounds offer additional amenities including electric hookups, shower facilities, and drinking water.
"Great smaller park, (1,000+acre) with easy access to the interstate. My Grandsons Love that the water is clearer than most lakes here in Ohio!!"
"Lots of Ohio farmland countryside though. There is a nice size lake in the middle of Wolf Run so everything is based around it. Watch the traffic when driving from one area to another."
from $25 - $45 / night
Check Availability"It's not listed on maps, but it is right across the way from hook lake, there is an access road you'll go on that will take you there. It's right off 83 in McConnellsville, outside Caldwell, ohio."
"Very secluded, perfect for those nature lovers looking to get away from it all. No cell service and very little light pollution at night so perfect for looking at stars."
"Very close to the nice little downtown Marietta, Ohio but still very rural location. Large sites. Great staff. Absolutely love this place. Slow pace and quiet."
"The highway traffic can be a little loud in the morning if you're on that side of the property, but who wants to sleep when there are trails to hit!"
"Hook Lake AEP is I think the second largest of the campground areas, outside McConnellsville, Oh. Hook Lake campsites are spread throughout the woodland loop above the lake recreation area."
"We did buy wood from a private home in a near by town. Great deal. $10 for a whole wheel barrow full of wood. Quality wood (dry and well cut). "
"Wayne National Forest shares the area with Burr Oak State Park near Glouster, Oh. Wayne National Forest is split into three areas in southeastern Ohio."
"The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike. There is a bathroom across the road and access to water at the entrance of the site. Showers are 15 minutes walk or a quick drive away."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability"It has recently been purchased by the State of Ohio. The ReCreation AEP campsites has an outstanding FB (Facebook) page."
"Maple Grove AEP is located outside McConnellsville, Oh and was ReCreated by American Energy Power. The campsite is clean, basic and free with permit."
"We were camping there as volunteers with the Buckeye Trail Association to assist with trail cleanup. The Buckeye Trail is easily accessible from the campground for hiking."
"I showed up at 1am and drove around looking for a spot, settling for the one that was closest to the entrance, and much more private."
"Just outside the towns of Zanesville and Cumberland where you can find Ohio's famed Wilds there's heat opportunity for free camping."
"How special is that:) I also liked this campsite as you could be by the cattails, grassy area, pine tree area, on a small island behind the covered bridge."
from $25 / night
Check Availability"We chose rivers edge for our annual father son getaway and we were not disappointed. The tent sites are right next to the water and there is a beach and dock nearby also."
from $30 - $60 / night
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RangerThis campground is located near major roads and within a quick trip to Hocking Hills State Park. Tents spots are located near the lake and provide pine tree shaded cover. Bathrooms are private and very clean!
GuideNice for one night stop
GuideWe thoroughly enjoyed this camp spot right on the river. LOTS of different birds. And it was so quiet!
ScoutIve camped here a few times in the kast few years and have really enjoyed it. They just put in a spigot to get water from. There is vault toilets. They cut down some brush to make a few trails that you can hike. This campground is surrounded by other free campgrounds in Jesse Owen's state Park but this is the only one that gets cell service. You are allowed to run generator.
GuideSites are small - especially the ones with power. Bathrooms are dirty and very worn out. Only 1 of 3 of the mens showers were working. Lots of spiders in the bathrooms and the stall doors don't latch effectively. Camp store (and access to ice) was closed for 'remodel'.
ScoutIt rained a lot (not the park's fault) so it was pretty muddy the whole time I was there. I switched from site 7 (next to the bathhouse) to site 8 midway through, and both were fine and relatively quiet. It was busy and the bathhouse was kind of gross, but I guess that comes with the territory.
ScoutVery, very nice and quiet. Very well laid out, very friendly for big rigs. Pull-thru campsites are for up to 66 ft.
RangerNot our favorite. Very small campground. Good hiking trails. Decent beach. Very hilly. Shower house was kinda gross.
RangerWe were there 3 night. With no kids. More of a tent camping campground. Not two many spots could fit bigger campers.
Campsites near Clifton, Ohio range from free dispersed sites to developed campgrounds across a mix of terrain. The area's rolling hills and woodland settings create natural seclusion for campers, with elevations generally between 600-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience wider temperature swings requiring more adaptable gear.
Kayaking on calm waters: Hook Lake Campground offers easy access to peaceful paddling. "We chose a site on a hill that I was able to get my 40+ rig into, I was all by myself with a great view," notes James D., highlighting the scenic paddling opportunities.
Stargazing without light pollution: The remote locations of many campsites make for exceptional night sky viewing. At Sand Hollow Campground, one camper reported, "Very secluded, perfect for those nature lovers looking to get away from it all. No cell service and very little light pollution at night so perfect for looking at stars."
Hiking the Buckeye Trail: Multiple campgrounds provide access to this historic trail system. "The Buckeye Trail is easily accessible from the campground for hiking," notes a Shannon G. about Bicentennial Campground, adding that the trail offers good terrain for day hikes of varying difficulties.
Private waterfront sites: Campers consistently highlight the value of water-adjacent camping spots. At Riversedge Campground, Ken P. shares, "The tent sites are right next to the water and there is a beach and dock nearby also."
Spacious camping areas: Many sites offer ample room for group camping. "The campsites were large. We had 5 people in 3 tents, and a pretty good size trailer with 5 kayaks loaded and still had more than enough room for everyone," says Derek C. about his experience at Sand Hollow.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's lakes attract diverse birds and animals. "The campground has a beautiful lake you fish or kayak on and there are a ton of birds so bring your binoculars," advises a camper about Bicentennial Campground.
Vault toilets condition varies: Facilities at dispersed sites receive minimal maintenance. "The downfall is the cleanliness of the facilities. Bathrooms and showerhouses are somewhat neglected," notes Hannah B. about Wolf Run State Park.
Water availability limitations: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. "The water station was broken at our site so we had to travel to another location to get more. No service and no electric hookup," reports Kelly L. about her stay at one campground.
Seasonal insect activity: Bugs can be problematic during warmer months. "I went for an overnight camping getaway...As I was going to put my canoe into the water, I noticed some really nasty stuff in the water...and then I noticed a lot of flies all around that particular area," shares Joey Z. about his experience.
Fishing access for kids: Sawmill Campground offers special fishing opportunities. "At the campground children up to the age of 15 are allowed to fish. Adults need to go elsewhere to fish," explains one reviewer about nearby restrictions.
Playground amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Has a playarea for kids with basketball court," mentions cyndy F. about recreation options at Wolf Run State Park.
Shallow water exploration: Several sites feature kid-friendly water access. "Plenty of shallow water for the kids to play in if they wanted to go exploring," notes a camper about Sawmill Campground, highlighting the natural play opportunities.
Site selection for vehicle size: Many campgrounds have variable site conditions. "Would advise to visually check the sites, due to terrain which is rolling," recommends Jay B. about Wolf Run State Park Campground.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. "Some of the electric sites were very small or had a very bad dip on the pad. Choose your site wisely," advises Shannon G. from her experience at Burr Oak.
Dump station access: Limited facilities exist for waste disposal. "They do have a place to empty your grey water, but no black water tank," notes Kelly L., adding important information for self-contained RV campers planning extended stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Clifton, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Clifton, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 141 campgrounds and RV parks near Clifton, OH and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Clifton, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clifton, OH is Wolf Run State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 19 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Clifton, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Clifton, OH.
What parks are near Clifton, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 parks near Clifton, OH that allow camping, notably Wayne National Forest and Dillon Lake.
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