Best Campgrounds near Otway, OH

The rolling hills surrounding Otway, Ohio feature several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, offering diverse camping experiences from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV accommodations. Shawnee State Park Campground, located about 15 miles southwest of Otway near West Portsmouth, provides year-round camping with electric hookups, showers, and access to hiking trails through the 1,160-acre park. Sandy Springs Campground in Stout offers riverfront camping along the Ohio River with highly-rated facilities including private bathrooms with showers. The region also includes Pike Lake State Park to the north and several family-oriented resorts like Long's Retreat Family Resort, which operates seasonally from April through October.

Camping in this area requires preparation, particularly regarding cell service limitations. As one camper noted, "Shawnee State Park was totally without any phone signal. Definitely get a map because the whole park offers a lot of outdoor opportunities." Most state park campgrounds provide basic amenities including drinking water, electric hookups, and shower facilities, though quality varies by location. Winter camping is available at several parks, with Paint Creek State Park offering heated bathrooms with showers during colder months. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer and fall when the region's colorful foliage attracts more visitors. Many campgrounds have camp stores selling firewood and basic supplies, though quality of store-bought firewood has been inconsistent according to visitor reports.

Riverside camping experiences receive particularly high ratings from visitors to the area. Sandy Springs Campground consistently earns five-star reviews for its Ohio River views, with one camper noting, "It's nice to sit outside and watch the river and barges traveling up and down." Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds, with some state parks drawing criticism for crowded conditions. A visitor to Paint Creek observed, "This campground was huge, with very few trees and small lots very close together." By contrast, Shawnee State Park receives praise for privacy between sites despite their proximity. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with deer, raccoons, and wild turkey commonly spotted. Families appreciate the recreational amenities at many parks, including beaches, boat rentals, fishing access, and hiking trails.

Best Camping Sites Near Otway, Ohio (88)

    1. Shawnee State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Friendship, OH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 858-6652

    $24 / night

    "Right on the border of Kentucky, in Ohio, you are in the small town almost South.

    Beautiful countryside, fortunately I was on Rt 125 when I lost all clue where the park entrance was."

    "There are plenty of trails for the hikers, and 2 lakes if you're the boating/swimming type. Lots of elevation for Ohio."

    2. Sandy Springs Campground

    33 Reviews
    Stout, OH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 640-7858

    $35 - $125 / night

    "The campground offers something for everyone: playground equipment, basketball hoop and various balls, access to the river for fishing, and absolutely stunning views of the Ohio as well as the surrounding"

    "We actually walked down boat ramp (which they have) and went swimming in the Ohio River! It’s nice to sit outside and watch the river and barges traveling up and down."

    3. Long's Retreat Family Resort

    13 Reviews
    Sinking Spring, OH
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 588-3725

    "We have been going here for the last 6 summers with a big group (nearly 30 kids with us). Everyone always has such a great time and it is the highlight of all the kids summers."

    4. Pike Lake State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    Latham, OH
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 493-2212

    "Ranger Review: Morsel Spork at Pike Lake State Park

    Campground Review:

    We stayed at site 67 next to the camp host. The camp site was nicely shaded with a small creek behind it."

    "The lake is smaller, but nice beach area and pedal boats are fun. We hiked the Greenbriar and CCC Trails. They are not too challenging but beautiful."

    5. Turkey Creek Campground — Shawnee State Park

    1 Review
    Friendship, OH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 858-4561

    $19 - $50 / night

    "General: It was a little confusing as the campground was called the Turkey Creek Campground, but it is located on Roosevelt Lake, not Turkey Creek Lake, which is a few miles further down the road."

    6. Shawnee State Park-Ohio River Campground

    2 Reviews
    Friendship, OH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 858-6681

    $60 / night

    "These are located away from the RV's; therefore, the campground was very quiet and peaceful.

    Nearby was a marina, fishing access, and an archery range. The surrounding hills are pretty."

    "There are great walking paths and biking/ scooter options. Our site was closer to the main road than any other but it was still a few hundred yards away."

    7. Lazy Village Campground & RV Park

    1 Review
    Friendship, OH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 858-2409

    $40 / night

    "This is a really cool campground because it’s situated on an old racetrack. Check out the website for details on the full hookup sites."

    8. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 286-4411

    $20 - $120 / night

    "Water was running over the edges of cliffs and boulders throughout the park into the river that flows through the park."

    "Lots to do within walking distance of the campground too."

    9. Paint Creek State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Paint Creek Lake, OH
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 981-7061

    "Cute, charming Ohio State Park. Enjoy 4 lovely hiking trails that showcase the parks features by taking you through the woods and fields. Fish is offered and their is boat dock ."

    "An excellent disc golf course, hiking and beautiful lake views. Just past the town of Bainbridge, Ohio is Seip Mound to explore and hike the trails."

    10. Rocky Fork State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Hillsboro, OH
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 393-4284

    "The camp grounds we stayed in was nearly full and had every conceivable form of camping from tents to full size motor coaches."

    "Camp sites available next to the lake. Beautiful lake for kayaking, boating and swimming. Only downfall is that you have to drive a few miles to get to the beach."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 88 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Otway, OH

340 Reviews of 88 Otway Campgrounds



Guide to Otway

Camping near Otway, Ohio, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring Caves: Many campers enjoy the hiking trails and caves at Carter Caves State Resort Park. One visitor mentioned, "There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds. The caves themselves are quite the treat."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Rocky Fork State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A camper noted, "Beautiful lake for kayaking, boating and swimming."
  • Family Activities: Sandy Springs Campground is great for families. One reviewer said, "The campsite is totally geared towards family fun! The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at various campgrounds. One visitor at Paint Creek State Park Campground said, "The park was peaceful and pleasing as the employees and volunteers obviously take pride in their efforts."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A camper at Greenbo Lake State Resort Park mentioned, "The owners go out of their way to make sure that you are ok or if you need anything."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius said, "It's a simple place, they have showers and restrooms. The hiking trails are scenic and pretty."

What you should know:

  • Site Sizes Vary: Some campgrounds have sites that may not fit larger RVs. A visitor at Pike Lake State Park Campground noted, "Some sites too small for our 20’ trailer and truck."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. A camper at Shawnee State Park Campground mentioned, "The only thing about the showers is there is no bench inside the stall."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Rocky Fork State Park Campground said, "The park was very loud and more of a party crowd at least the weekend we were there."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Sandy Springs Campground that offer activities for kids. One parent shared, "My kids were busy nonstop with planned fun activities!"
  • Check Site Proximity: Make sure to pick a site that’s not too close to others if you want some peace. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park noted, "We were lucky enough to get a site with no immediate neighbors."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Greenbo Lake State Resort Park mentioned, "There is also a pool available at a discounted rate for campers."

Tips from RVers:

  • Plan for Hookup Needs: Check if your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Paint Creek State Park Campground said, "The hookups are very far from the site."
  • Be Prepared for Terrain: Some sites may have steep grades. A visitor at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius noted, "Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others."
  • Check for Amenities: Make sure to verify what amenities are available. A camper at Rocky Fork State Park Campground mentioned, "Bath houses were best we've seen so far, lots of shower stalls and clean."

Camping near Otway, Ohio, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to check the specifics of each campground to make the most of your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Otway, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, Otway, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 88 campgrounds and RV parks near Otway, OH and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Otway, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Otway, OH is Shawnee State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 19 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Otway, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Otway, OH.

What parks are near Otway, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Otway, OH that allow camping, notably Paint Creek Lake and Grayson Lake.