Camping options around Martins Ferry, Ohio include several family-oriented campgrounds nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The Ohio Valley terrain features significant elevation changes between 600-1,200 feet, creating both scenic camping opportunities and challenging access roads. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer months average 75-85°F with moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Lake activities: Austin Lake RV Park offers multiple water recreation options beyond standard swimming. "Has a playground in every section, well equipped cabins, a swimming area with inflatables, kayak, pontoon, and paddle boarding rentals, a bumper boat area, small lake where you can fish and boat," notes Linda R. about the Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins.
Wildlife viewing: The heavily wooded campgrounds provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We see deer almost every evening. There are a couple hiking trails nearby (Piatt Park and Raven's Rock) which have incredible rock formations in the gorges," reports Darla, who camped at Shadow Lake RV Resort during October.
Fishing: Multiple stocked ponds and small lakes allow for fishing without requiring a boat. "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! We had to stop a few times for them to move out of the driveway," shares Kathryn P. about her experience at Zion Retreat & RV Park.
What campers like
Scenic hilltop settings: The eastern Ohio landscape provides elevated camping with panoramic views. "The views are amazing! If you love peace and quiet this is the place for you. All sites are amongst the very tall trees," writes Kathryn P. about her stay at Zion Retreat & RV Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the region prioritize cleanliness and upkeep. "Great: The pool & concession stand, beautifully maintained lawns and gravel campsites, modern hookups, good shower/laundry facilities, nice fire rings with built in grills, trash pickup service," reports Heath T. about Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort.
Family-oriented activities: Structured activities keep children engaged throughout the day. "TONS of stuff to do here. Very big campground, all kinds of sites. Reserve early for Holiday Weekends as it fills up. Lots of seasonals. Inflatable slides and such in the lake, hiking trials, playgrounds, all sorts of stuff," explains Mathew H. from his experience at Austin Lake RV Park.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service throughout the Ohio Valley can be unreliable or non-existent. "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier. Be advised it will seem a little sketchy getting in. The road dead-ends into the campground and it is all downhill getting there," warns Mathew H. about Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort.
Additional activity fees: Some campgrounds charge for amenities beyond the site fee. "Austin lake offers plenty of fun with the lake. Kayaking, inflatables, beach, but almost anything you want to do will cost you an additional charge. Need to use the bathhouse? Better take quarters...bc the showers are coin operated," cautions Terra B.
Steep entrance roads: The hilly terrain creates challenging access points to several campgrounds. "Make sure you have a good tow vehicle as there is a steep hill at the entrance/exit of the camp ground," advises Robert T. about Zion Retreat & RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak benefits: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides a quieter experience with less crowding. "We came to Shadow Lake in October to camp for the month. To get here, you must drive through the rolling hills of Southern Ohio, which is absolutely gorgeous in October! The campground is beautiful and peaceful, especially at this time of year as most of the campers have either gone south, closed up or pulled out for the season," shares Darla about her fall stay.
Public vs. private considerations: Some campgrounds allow day-use visitors which affects privacy and amenity availability. "The Park is not exclusive Campers it is open to the public for a small fee! Super loud PA system throughout the whole park that wakes you up at 8am every morning like you are in prison!" warns Owen I. about Austin Lake RV Park.
Pre-booking activities: Popular summer weekend activities often fill up quickly and require advance planning. "Kayaks, paddle boards, jumps, slides. Name they had a blast!! I even enjoyed the overhead speaker announcements. Added an old time feel to the campground," notes tom S. about the structured activities at Austin Lake.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: Many RV parks in the region operate only during specific months. "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 every thing was snowy and muddy I could tell this is a very well taken care of place," reports Blaine V. about Shadow Lake RV Resort.
Site spacing: RV sites at several campgrounds have limited separation between neighbors. "The sites are a bit close, think KOA close. This might be a turnoff if the campground was full. The weekend we stayed there were 8 total campers, lots of empty sites between campers," observes Kathryn P. about the spacing at Zion Retreat & RV Park.
Downhill access challenges: The elevation changes require proper vehicle capability for safe navigation. "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," advises Mathew H. regarding accessing Austin Lake RV Park.
