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.