Southern Ohio's Marietta region offers multiple RV campgrounds surrounded by rolling hills and situated along the Ohio River. Campgrounds in this area range from small, privately operated locations to larger resorts with extensive amenities. Winter stays are possible at select locations, with Shadow Lake RV Resort among those offering year-round camping options.
What to do
Kayaking on the Ohio River: Riversedge Campground provides kayak rentals with upstream drop-off service for convenient river paddling. "They rent kayaks and canoes so if you have time take a trip down the river," notes camper Eric S.
Hiking nearby trail systems: Woodsy terrain surrounds many campgrounds with dedicated hiking opportunities. "They just purchased 62 acres for hiking across the road," mentions Ken P. about Riversedge Campground's expanded outdoor recreation options.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Shadow Lake RV Resort features multiple ponds throughout its 100-acre property, providing fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. The resort's layout allows for wildlife viewing as well, with one camper noting, "We see deer almost every evening."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Tent sites along the water allow for direct river access and scenic views. "Our tent was right on the river... We enjoyed [cinnamon rolls] by our fire as we watched the mist gently float over the water," according to Eric S. who stayed at Riversedge.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. At Riversedge, campers appreciate that "the shower house was clean and freshly painted" while another camper notes the sites themselves are "well maintained."
Helpful management: Stockport RV Park receives praise for its personable owners. "George and Dwight are awesome people, a pleasure doing business," writes James M. This sentiment is echoed at other parks, with Riversedge campers noting the host "makes you feel more than welcome" and brings "warm cinnamon rolls and coffee" to departing guests.
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Some smaller operations have specific payment requirements. "Cash or Check only" notes a reviewer about Harris RV Park, a detail important for travelers accustomed to using credit cards.
Cell service reliability: ATT service provides approximately 2 bars of LTE in most camping areas near Marietta, sufficient for basic connectivity but potentially limiting for bandwidth-heavy applications.
Site variations: Campgrounds in the area range from basic to well-appointed. "Tight spots, but pretty level," notes one Harris RV Park camper, while describing their location "right on the Ohio River with full hookup for $25 a night."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Riversedge Campground offers water recreation options beyond just fishing. "The tent sites are right next to the water and there is a beach and dock nearby also," notes Ken P., making it suitable for families with children who enjoy swimming.
Budget-friendly options: Ashland RV Park accommodates tent campers with electrical hookups and water at individual sites, providing a more economical option for families not requiring full RV services. "While an RV park, you can also tent camp with the amenities, making it really nice," explains Jackie D.
Seasonal planning: Fall provides exceptional views in the region with less crowding. "To get here, you must drive through the rolling hills of Southern Ohio, which is absolutely gorgeous in October," shares one Shadow Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Parking challenges: Hilly terrain throughout the region creates leveling issues at various locations. One camper notes parking pads may be sloped, requiring additional equipment or adjustment for comfortable overnight stays.
Convenient locations: Blennerhassett RV Park offers straightforward check-in procedures for travelers needing a quick overnight stay. "I called when I was on my way, he gave me a space number, and I was able to go straight to it," reports Aly M.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires selecting appropriate facilities. One Shadow Lake visitor explains, "I stayed here in the worse month possible for camping in ohio but the owner made it a great experience. They are very accommodating. Even though everything was snowy and muddy I could tell this is a very well taken care of place."
