Jefferson Lake State Park Campground sits about 30 miles northeast of St. Clairsville, Ohio in rolling foothills terrain. The area features a mix of open meadows and wooded lots with elevations ranging from 1,000-1,300 feet. Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though facilities like showers and water systems close during winter months at many locations.
What to do
Hiking trails and natural exploration: At Beaver Creek State Park Campground, visitors access multiple trail systems. "Direct access to the North Country National Scenic Trail and trails through main park," notes Tracy H. The park offers historical sites too, with one camper mentioning, "The pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)."
Fishing opportunities: Several parks in the region provide water access. "Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!!" shares Mike T. about Beaver Creek. At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, campers can enjoy "lovely hiking trails around the lake and spillway," according to Teri A.
Equestrian activities: For those seeking horse campgrounds near St. Clairsville, Ohio, Kinderhook Horse Trail offers dedicated equestrian facilities. "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road," reports Joe B. The trails appear "well maintained" with various terrain options for riders of different skill levels.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at certain campgrounds. At Fernwood State Forest Hidden Hollow Campground, Donald F. notes, "No problem getting 40' skoolie in and parked in mostly level spots. Camp fire rings and picnic tables at most sites." Another camper appreciated "a very well maintenance campsite most have fire pits a lot of level ground for tent camping."
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to towns, several parks maintain peaceful settings. A camper at Jefferson Lake describes it as a "Quiet little campground. Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court." Another mentions, "Perfect for our little Scamp trailer. Only 5 big electric sites, no showers or potable water. As a result it was so peaceful!"
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost sites in the region. Hidden Hollow provides free camping with registration. "Self-register with cards located at pit latrine building. 14 days every 30," explains Donald F. Another camper notes it's "a very well maintenance campsite... must register when you arrive at the box attached to the bathroom building can't beat it for FREE."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many parks have basic amenities only. Canton-East Sparta KOA offers more services but campers should verify availability. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, "The bathroom was clean, but the 'non-flush' toilet was just gross," mentions one reviewer. Jefferson Lake has "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground."
Water restrictions: Water access varies significantly. At Beaver Creek, a reviewer warns, "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!"
Traffic and noise considerations: Proximity to roads affects some campgrounds. Hidden Hollow campers mention, "All through the night there were sketchy cars and trucks in and out of the campground. The noise level was high all throughout the night." Another notes a nearby "gun range 5 mins away or so" with audible shooting until late evening.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, Kinderhook Trailhead offers basic facilities in a natural setting. For more amenities, Beaver Creek provides family-friendly options: "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal sightings. One camper reports, "Just driving in saw turkeys and 'turkets' and two 6 point bucks" at a regional park. Evening wildlife viewing can also be memorable: "We laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!"
Insect preparation: Parents should pack appropriate protection. At Kinderhook, a camper noted "A lot of insects, humid and dense deciduous forest surrounding the trailhead." Another mentioned, "There were a lot of bees, yellow jackets" at one of the horse campgrounds near St. Clairsville.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Fernwood State Forest, a reviewer warns, "We got lucky and landed a level site, but most of the sites are extremely unlevel." For those with smaller rigs, Jefferson Lake works well: "Perfect for our little Scamp trailer. Only 5 big electric sites."
Limited hookups: Most parks offer minimal services. "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets," notes a Jefferson Lake camper. Another mentions, "Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord. All water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded."
Supply planning: Services are limited near many campgrounds. One camper advises, "Not very many restaurants or grocery nearby. Better make sure you have what you need before you travel." This makes advance meal planning and supply gathering essential before heading to horse campgrounds near St. Clairsville.
