101 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The eastern Ohio region surrounding Martins Ferry features several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, including Barkcamp State Park and Hidden Hollow Campground at Fernwood State Forest. Most camping areas accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several parks like Grand Vue Park and Tomlinson Run State Park also offering cabin rentals. The area's campgrounds typically provide basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities, while some locations like Sally Buffalo Park and Austin Lake RV Park feature full hookup options for recreational vehicles.
Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with many facilities operating from April through October. Barkcamp State Park remains open year-round but with limited winter services. Road conditions generally accommodate standard vehicles, though some forest service roads may require higher clearance during wet periods. As one visitor noted, "Tucked away in southeastern Ohio is a gem of a park for camping, hiking and horse camping. Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court." Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, particularly at Fernwood State Forest where visitors report limited connectivity. Most campgrounds require reservations during peak summer months, with holiday weekends often booking months in advance.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw in the region, with several parks situated on lakes or rivers. Atwood Lake Park Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its lakeside sites and modern facilities. A camper described it as "a true gem in a beautiful area of eastern Ohio" with "many sites on cul de sacs directly on the lake with docks and fishing areas adjacent to the campsites." The terrain throughout the region features rolling hills and wooded areas, providing scenic settings but sometimes limiting level camping spots. Visitors frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere at smaller campgrounds like Jefferson Lake State Park, while noting that larger facilities such as Salt Fork State Park can become crowded and noisy during summer weekends. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with deer sightings common at dawn and dusk.
"This was a nice place to stop for a few days on my drive west into Ohio. I knew nothing about the campground prior to this visit."
"I grew up in the Ohio valley and I love living here."
from $35 - $150 / night
Check Availability"Very well kept, completely free 1st come campground just outside the very small town of Bloomingdale, OH. Pit toilets and no source of safe, clean water anymore."
"The campground is situated near shooting ranges so the gunfire lasts late into the evening and begins early in the morning disrupting the serenity a bit. The best part - it's free!"
"A cute restaurant is close by along with restrooms and showers that are also brand new. Firewood is for sale at the main office for $20 and they deliver to you."
"so not fiddling around with a Fob or keycard!"
from $15 - $225 / night
Check Availability"All and All great place to camp, good things; 1) lots of deer, turkeys, racoons, owls etc. 2) close to a farmer's market Jankowski's great place to get fresh food, 3) once you have level camp, all good"
"This location is pretty great, especially since it's very close to Pittsburgh. You can go canoeing, hiking, swimming, and camping! There is even a nice snack bar during the summer!"
from $18 - $128 / night
Check Availability"There are 3 trails you can take right within the campground. The downside is no cell service for Verizon."
"Small camp loop is great for little kids to bike around. There is no playground at the campground which would have been nice. There is NO Verizon service at the campground. "
from $20 - $82 / night
Check Availability"Had a great spot by the lake right off the back of our camper. Make sure you have a good tow vehicle as there is a steep hill at the entrance/exit of the camp ground."
"There are several ponds around the campground for fishing and bird watching. Be sure to keep an eye our for deer as you come into the park!"
"Bathhouse is heated with showers that have a fiberglass tub surround, not concrete. Nice hiking trails that connect through the campground. "
"There are trails and fishing so plenty to do. Fairly sparse in April but a lot of people still driving and walking by. Alcohol prohibited"
from $28 - $40 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability"It’s nothing much, there isn’t much in the way of activity save a few trails."
"Gun range nearby."
"Adjacent to the lake. Multiple amenities close by. Plenty of activities for the family. Great family owned campground."
"Kart friendly and great spots all along the main strip, lake side and creek side."
from $70 - $250 / night
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ScoutThere’s no electricity and no where in walking distance and the internet isn’t great, and at night u hear raccoons in the trash cans. If you come here bring a portable phone charger. There’s really nothing here, and the bathrooms are disgusting
ScoutWe just bought our first RV and couldn’t ask for a better first time experience!!! Lori and Fred were absolutely awesome. Great clean facilities and pool. Lots of new upgrades and updates. Gorgeous creek and pond and an absolutely amazing set of neighbors! I loved it there and will absolutely be going back!
GuideWe found site F26 at the far end of the loop. Short paved pad with electric very near a simple clean bathroom with flush toilets. Sites are treeless and fairly close together but the sites in our mini loop all backed up to the woods. Surprised to encounter mosquitoes in October. Overall the campground is huge with 5 separate loops that are spread far apart. The check in station is a significant distance from the first loop A and more than a mile from loop F so if you don’t have reservations, go to the website to find out which sites are available then drive around to make your selection -then call or go online to register. $45.50 for electric only site includes booking fee.
ScoutThe park is beautiful, unlevel shade sites; is challenging to get the trailer level. unfortunately, the bathhouses are neglected, dark and full of mildew inside the showers. The park really needs to upgrade the bathhouses. The park itself is very nice and offers a lot of opportunities for outdoor exploration and hiking.
GuideThis is more a campground for RVs then tents or even roof top tents. Place is clean and the sites 90% of them are in the open. Very little shade. Travis runs the place and very nice and accommodating. Fire wood is 20 dollars for a massive amount.
ScoutSpent three nights there in August Mid-week. Was pretty quiet but was clean and nicely taken care of. No mosquitos or bugs at night. Nice walking paths. Pool, hot tub, outdoor showers all very nice.
ScoutVery quiet and private. Beautiful views, fishing, and picnic areas are clean.
ScoutA little too close together for my comfort. But very nice and relaxing area. And definitely more spread a part than commercial campgrounds.
RangerWe were there 3 night. With no kids. More of a tent camping campground. Not two many spots could fit bigger campers.
Campsites near Martins Ferry, Ohio range from 800 to 1,200 feet in elevation across rolling Appalachian foothills. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter dropping to 20-30°F. Local campgrounds typically receive 40 inches of annual precipitation, making spring camping occasionally muddy along forest roads.
Horseback riding trails: At Barkcamp State Park Campground, equestrian camping is available with dedicated facilities. "This is set up with a whole section for horse camping with tie outs and trailer/truck sites. Lots of bridle trails and a really quiet park," notes one visitor. The trails accommodate horses, hikers, and snowmobiles.
Kayaking and fishing: The region offers several options for water activities. "There are a handful of sites on cul de sacs directly on the lake with docks and fishing areas adjacent to the campsites," according to campers at nearby locations. At Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins, "Kayaks, paddle boards, jumps, slides" provide entertainment for families.
Mushroom foraging: Some state forests in the area are known for seasonal mushroom hunting. "Went down to pick some Morrell and shantrels mushrooms, they were everywhere, many of the mushrooms didn't even require us to leave the path!" reports a visitor to Ryerson Station State Park Campground.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost sites. "Self-register with cards located at pit latrine building. 14 days every 30. No problem getting 40' skoolie in and parked in mostly level spots. Camp fire rings and picnic tables at most sites," shares a camper at Hidden Hollow Campground — Fernwood State Forest.
Privacy at select sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded options. "Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road / cul-de-sac," notes a visitor at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground regarding tent site 40.
Fall foliage viewing: The region's deciduous forests provide seasonal color displays. "Trees are everywhere and wonderful during the fall season. We had a big night of rain and with the wind it dried up pretty quickly," reports a camper about the Electric Site 37 area.
Variable site conditions: Levelness varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "Most of the RV spots are unlevel up a hill, so backing in would be a hassle," warns a camper about one location. Another notes, "A lot of un-level sites. Horse camp was going on in the back section as well."
Seasonal limitations: Water access changes seasonally at many campgrounds. "Water - have to go up to entrance as the water spouts are still shut off," reports a fall visitor at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground. Another camper notes, "The campground had no water hookups" during November camping.
Cell reception gaps: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "Very quiet, not to crowded... No Verizon service at the campground. We walked up to the amphitheater and were able to get out a few texts but no looking at the radar," explains a camper at Ryerson Station State Park.
Swimming options: Several parks offer water recreation. "Many area's with grills set up, but Holiday, it fills up fast. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes," advises a visitor to Barkcamp State Park. Another campground's visitor notes, "Has a playground in every section, well equipped cabins, a swimming area with inflatables."
Playground access: Many campsites feature recreation areas for children. "There is a playground down near the pool area, basic but nice," reports a camper. However, some campgrounds lack these amenities: "There is no playground at the campground which would have been nice."
Educational opportunities: At Grand Vue Park, "The Shuttle driver ended up telling us about this super cute breakfast place called Bob's Lunch! It was so good super well priced it was a hidden gem and the shuttle bus even took us on a tour of moundsville!"
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. At Austin Lake, "Be advised it will seem a little sketchy getting in. The road dead-ends into the campground and it is all downhill getting there. Take your time and all will be just fine. Our rig is 39' & 16K. 4wd low helps, not cause you need 4wd just for the lower gears."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground and season. "50 amp and nice hiking trails," notes a Barkcamp State Park visitor. For RV camping at Zion Retreat & RV Park, "All sites are full hookups. The other 7 campers here this weekend all appear to be longer term/seasonal."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide sanitary dumping facilities. When available, their configuration can impact convenience. "Dump station- 2 way and potable water on the other side of it. The only place to drop your trash too," explains a camper describing facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Martins Ferry, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Martins Ferry, OH is Barkcamp State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
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