RV parks near Long Bottom, Ohio offer varying levels of access to the Hocking and Ohio Rivers with seasonal availability affecting campsite conditions. The region's hilly Appalachian terrain creates distinct microclimates where riverfront camping areas can experience morning fog and cooler temperatures than inland sites. Most campgrounds maintain gravel sites that may require additional preparation during spring's typically wetter months.
What to do
Riverside kayaking trips: Riversedge Campground provides kayak rentals with upstream drop-off service, allowing campers to enjoy a downstream paddle back to their campsite. "If you decide to rent a kayak they will even drop you off upstream to start your trip. Kelli is a wonderful host and she is very attentive to your needs."
Hiking across varied terrain: Riversedge Campground recently expanded their recreation options with additional land for trail exploration. "They just purchased 62 acres for hiking across the road," reports a visitor who appreciated these new outdoor activity options beyond water sports.
Small town exploration: Ashland RV Park provides convenient access to local culture in nearby Marietta. According to one camper, it's "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."
What campers like
River views: Hocking River RV Park attracts visitors specifically for its waterfront setting. One camper shared, "So beautiful! Perfect right on the river... decent shower houses... peaceful little campground." Another mentioned, "The river is small and is perfect to have a fire right next to."
Quieter camping experience: Blennerhassett RV Park offers straightforward check-in procedures that appeal to travelers seeking minimal hassle. "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."
Water recreation opportunities: Multiple campers appreciate the region's access to water activities, with one noting at Hocking River RV Park, "We also just went up the highway a little to a rafting rental place called murrys landing to raft down the river. It is one of my favorite places to camp!!"
What you should know
Site sizing considerations: RV sites vary considerably in size and arrangement throughout the region. At Hocking River RV Park, "Sites 26 and 27 are real small and private. Big enough for a pop up. Water filling and black water dump. Electric. Close to river."
Proximity to transportation routes: Highway and railroad noise affects some campgrounds in the area. One camper at Hocking River RV Park noted, "Right on the river, which is interesting, but it's also right alongside State Route 33, so you hear freeway traffic constantly. Trucks and motorcycles woke me up all night, AND there is a train track right across the river."
Seasonal facility conditions: Bathroom facilities can become strained during peak usage periods. A visitor observed, "Flush toilets, which worked fine Friday and Saturday, but all of the women's toilets were clogged by Sunday morning, and the shower house needs to be hosed down- covered in dead bugs."
Tips for camping with families
Limited on-site recreation: Some campgrounds lack designated play areas for children. One family mentioned, "No playground which made camping with kids very uneventful for them. You're right off the highway though but a good drive to any of the attractions."
River access challenges: Many riverfront sites have steep embankments limiting water access. A camper noted, "Figured we'd bring some swim suits since it's on the river but there really wasn't any way to the river as the bank was about 5 feet up."
Special departure treats: Riversedge Campground offers a unique family-friendly touch with morning refreshments on departure day. "On our last day she brought us warm cinnamon rolls and coffee. We enjoyed them by our fire as we watched the mist gently float over the water."
Tips from RVers
Site placement and terrain: RV sites often require adjustments for stabilization, as noted at Harris RV Park: "Tight spots, but pretty level. The owner, Max, is amazing. He met us with a welcome packet in a reusable bag."
Fire ring location variations: Some RV parks separate camping spots from fire ring areas for safety reasons. One RVer explained, "Fire rings are not near RV but behind across the road on the river."
Affordable riverfront options: Harris RV Park provides budget-friendly full hookup sites on the Ohio River. "Did I mention we're right on the Ohio River with full hookup for $25 a night?! Full hookup alone is worth more than 25 bucks. Cash or Check only."
