Newport, Ohio sits along the Ohio River with terrain characterized by heavily forested hills and river valleys. The area gets approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush vegetation throughout the Wayne National Forest region. Camping options range from primitive sites with vault toilets to full-hookup RV parks, with most dispersed camping sites located on uneven terrain that can become muddy after rainfall.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: North Bend State Park contains numerous trail options for cyclists. A visitor noted, "Nice property, good acces. Would camp here again" at Hune Bridge Campground, which provides nearby access to forest trails.
Rail trail exploration: The North Bend Rail Trail offers 72 miles of converted railway path. "This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail. It was easy check in with a friendly staff. Great place to stay with plenty of room to enjoy yourself," shared a camper about River Run Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The 50-acre lake at Mountwood Park offers good fishing spots. "There is a nice 50 acre lake...for short paddles or fishing (no swimming permitted)," reported a camper who stayed at Mountwood Park Family Campground.
Paddling access: The Ohio River and smaller tributaries provide multiple paddling options. "We had a wonderful time. The Park is great... We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river," explained a camper from River Run Campground.
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Sites along the water receive high marks for relaxation and views. A visitor at River Run Campground shared, "We were at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! Plenty of ice and firewood at the store and a cute little gift shop."
Affordable options: Free and low-cost camping provides budget-friendly access. A reviewer of Lane Farm Campground noted, "It is completely FREE, though, and you can stay for up to 14 days. There are quite a few small campgrounds in the area just like this one."
History features: Historical elements add interest to the camping experience. At Kinderhook Trailhead, "There is a covered bridge, but it's closed and full of local yocal graffiti," reported one camper about Hune Bridge area.
Cell coverage: Many sites have surprisingly good connectivity. "Perfect AT&T and Sprint cell service" was noted at Kinderhook Trailhead by a visitor who appreciated staying connected.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds close during winter months. As one camper noted about Leith Run Recreation Area, "Talked to a National Forest Ranger and was told that this campground flooded in February 2018 and it will be quite some time before they can open it up again. Check their website for details."
Variable terrain: Many tent sites are on uneven ground. A camper at Mountwood Park Family Campground observed, "The primitive tent sites are less than desirable and more of an afterthought...There is patchy tall grass, dirt and rocks with no leveled areas."
Local traffic patterns: Some campgrounds experience irregular visitor patterns. At Lane Farm Campground, "We have noticed that people stop by or drive through in the evening. Sometimes they stay for a couple of minutes and other times for just a couple of hours."
Flooding risk: Seasonal water levels affect campground accessibility. "This campground flooded in February 2018 and it will be quite some time before they can open it up again," reported a visitor regarding Leith Run Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Mountwood Park Family Campground, "River Run also has a nice playground for the kids," noted a reviewer comparing different areas of the park.
Swimming options: Seasonal pools provide relief during summer heat. "The huge 'L' shaped outdoor pool...is seasonal and with college age lifeguards that exit for school early, it was closed mid-August," mentioned a visitor at Mountwood Park.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at several campgrounds. "Winding down to River Run, deer in abundance were lining the roadway, so use care," advised a camper about access routes.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are quieter than others for families. "Kind of noisy at night since it seems like this is primarily an RV park and very tight knit, community like," warned a visitor at Leith Run Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Cokeley Campground offers good electrical options. "There are two campgrounds in North Bend State Park...one is Cokely and the other is River Run. Neither are easy to get to when you have a big rig! We picked Cokely Campground as it has 50 amp power and water hook-ups."
Navigation challenges: GPS directions can lead RVs on difficult routes. "Do not follow GPS to get to North Bend SP(Cokeley or River Run) Call the park office directly. 304)643-2931. GPS took us up some nasty horse-shoe hills!" warned an RVer.
Site spacing: Some parks offer more room between RVs than others. At Ashland RV Park, "Large open campground minutes from downtown Marrietta OH... Clean, nice newer bath house. With laundry large shelter house."
Budget options: Affordable full-hookup sites exist in the area. "Small privately owned campground about 15 min off I-77. Right on the Ohio River. Tight spots, but pretty level. The owner, Max, is amazing... Did I mention we're right on the Ohio River with full hookup for $25 a night?!" shared a visitor about Harris RV Park.
