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

497 Reviews of 102 Gallipolis Campgrounds



Guide to Gallipolis

Camping near Gallipolis, Ohio, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hocking Hills State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, “Beautiful area with great hikes and views close by,” making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Caving: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you can discover various caves. A visitor shared, “The caves themselves are quite the treat,” highlighting the unique experiences available.
  • Fishing and Boating: Grayson Lake State Park Campground offers fishing and boat rentals. One happy camper said, “You can fish, rent boats and kayaks,” making it a perfect spot for water activities.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers at Sandy Springs Campground rave about the views. One review stated, “Backing your camper up to the view of the Ohio River is so calming.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy Carter Caves State Resort Park. A reviewer noted, “Great facilities, hiking, caving etc. We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough.”
  • Quiet and Relaxing: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment at Burr Oak State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “Burr Oak campgrounds is so relaxing and quiet.”

What you should know:

  • Site Proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Lake Hope State Park Campground remarked, “The sites were very sloped and the RV sites were pretty close together.”
  • Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Forked Run State Park Campground, may need maintenance. A visitor noted, “Campground in need of an update and targeted maintenance.”
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A camper at Kanawha State Forest mentioned, “No cell service on either Verizon or ATT anywhere.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Choose campgrounds with plenty of activities. At Carter Caves State Resort Park, one family said, “We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough to do all the things we wanted to.”
  • Check Site Layout: Look for sites that offer space for kids to play. A camper at Grayson Lake State Park Campground noted, “It has 2 playgrounds and plenty of grassy area for kids to play.”
  • Bring Entertainment: Make sure to pack games or outdoor toys. A visitor at Sandy Springs Campground mentioned, “The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family!”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Ensure your RV fits the site before booking. A camper at Forked Run State Park Campground advised, “Ensure your rig can fit into your selected site prior to booking as sites can be small and hilly.”
  • Be Prepared for Slopes: Some sites may be sloped, making it tricky to park. A visitor at Lake Hope State Park Campground mentioned, “The sites were very sloped.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Campers at Burr Oak State Park Campground suggested bringing extra cords and hoses, as hookups can be far from some sites.

Camping near Gallipolis, Ohio, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be sure to plan ahead and know what to expect!

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.