The campgrounds surrounding Martins Ferry, Ohio sit within the Appalachian foothills where elevation ranges from 700-1,200 feet. The region's mixed hardwood forests create natural buffers between camping areas, while seasonal variations significantly impact accessibility. Water-based recreation centers around several human-made lakes and reservoirs with particular fishing restrictions that differ from other Ohio regions.
What to do
Fishing and boating opportunities: Clendening Lake offers excellent fishing conditions with specific motor restrictions. "This lake is amazing fishing spot with 9.9 hp boat restrictions. The locals are very nice," notes a visitor to Clendening Lake Marina & Campground. The marina provides convenient boat launches with rentals available for those without equipment.
Horseback trails: At Barkcamp State Park Campground, equestrian camping sets it apart from other area parks. "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," reports one camper. The park maintains separate trails designated for horses, humans, and seasonal snowmobiles.
Historical exploration: The region contains numerous historical structures accessible from campsites. "Trails that lead along shore line to old stone house built in early days of Ohio. Caves to be explored that are easy to access," mentions a visitor to Salt Fork State Park Campground. These sites provide context about early Appalachian settlers and regional development.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention site spacing as a positive feature. "The sites are pretty spread out, which is very nice. There is a big equestrian camping area, which is cool," writes a visitor to Barkcamp State Park. The natural wooded settings create barriers between neighboring sites.
Lake views: Waterfront sites receive particular praise for their direct lake access. At Atwood Lake Park Campground, "Grab a lake front spot and just hang out there! The park is in excellent condition and the facilities are just as clean and comfortable." Many sites offer water views with short walks to docks and swimming areas.
Wildlife viewing: The region's forests support diverse wildlife populations viewable from campsites. "We see deer almost every evening. There are a couple hiking trails nearby which have incredible rock formations in the gorges," writes a camper at Shadow Lake RV Resort. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Several campgrounds reduce services during colder months. "We stayed here November 21, 2020. The campground had no water hookups, about 90% of the sites were not level (and....I mean by A LOT)," reports a camper at Barkcamp State Park. Call ahead for winter camping to verify available services.
Site leveling challenges: The region's hilly terrain creates leveling difficulties at many campsites. "A lot of un level sites" and "Not great when it rains, grounds flood quickly" are common observations about sites throughout the region's campgrounds.
Cell reception gaps: Limited connectivity affects many glamping options near Martins Ferry. "There is no cell service up there so be prepared, we lost it for about 20 minutes before the camp site," notes a visitor to Clendening Lake. Some locations offer limited WiFi near main buildings to compensate.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple swimming areas cater specifically to children. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, "Its a quiet little campground. Very pretty area. The hiking trails are very well kept," with "swimming, fishing, movie nites, gamerooms…fun for the whole family."
Playground facilities: Most campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for different age groups. "Kids love the playgrounds and being able to bike or scoot all around," mentions a visitor to Atwood Lake Park. The paved roads throughout these areas create safe zones for bicycling.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and interpretive programs operate during peak season. "Oglebay comes out and has star gazing when it's in season," notes a visitor to Barkcamp State Park, highlighting astronomy programs that introduce children to night sky observation.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service differs significantly between campgrounds. At Grand Vue Park, "A gated campground with a paved main road running through. The lots are gravel and somewhat level," with "50amp, 30amp hookups at all sites." Verify your specific electrical requirements when booking.
Site selection for large rigs: The region's terrain limits accessibility for larger vehicles. "We ended up just moving to one of the more level campgrounds... It's a cute campground, but a lot of the RV spots are unlevel up a hill, so backing in would be a hassle," cautions a visitor about Barkcamp State Park's site configuration.
Campsite surface types: Surface materials vary widely across glamping in Martins Ferry area. "The sites have large concrete pads with full hookups," notes a visitor to Atwood Lake Park, while others describe gravel or natural surfaces that may become problematic during wet weather.
