The St. Clairsville area offers camping options amid the Appalachian foothills in eastern Ohio, where elevations range from 900-1300 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with heavy rainfall possible during spring and early summer. Most campgrounds in this area open seasonally from May through October, with limited winter camping availability.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins features a small lake where visitors can fish without leaving the campground. "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.
Water activities: The lake at Austin Lake provides numerous water-based recreation options during summer months. "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.
Nature observation: Shadow Lake RV Resort offers wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its extensive property. "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," shares Darla in her review of the campground.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the quiet setting at Zion Retreat & RV Park. "The views are amazing! If you love peace and quiet this is the place for you. All sites are amongst the very tall trees. There are several ponds around the campground for fishing and bird watching," according to Kathryn P.
Fall foliage: The rolling hills around Shadow Lake RV Resort showcase spectacular autumn colors. "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," reports Darla.
Lakefront camping: Waterfront sites are particularly valued at some rv campgrounds near St. Clairsville, Ohio. "Had a great spot by the lake right off the back of our camper," notes Robert T. about his experience at Zion Retreat & RV Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to several campgrounds can present challenges for larger RVs. "The road dead-ends into the campground and it is all downhill getting there. 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. about Austin Lake RV Park.
Additional costs: Budget accordingly for extra fees at some facilities. "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 because the showers are coin operated," warns Terra B.
Cell service limitations: Prepare for limited connectivity at many St. Clairsville area RV parks. "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier," reports Mathew H. about Austin Lake RV Park, which may require advance planning for navigation and communication needs.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Family-friendly campgrounds in the region often provide varied recreation options. "A little out of the way but worth the drive. Has a playground in every section, well equipped cabins, a swimming area with inflatables, kayak, pontoon, and paddle boarding rentals, a bumper boat area," reports Linda R. about Austin Lake.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting local animals at Shadow Lake RV Resort. "There are several ponds located on the property and trails meander along and around the 100 acre property. We see deer almost every evening," notes Darla.
Public announcements: Some campgrounds use broadcast systems for activities. "Owner meets you at the gate, very nice guy to talk to. Staff was all very friendly and helpful. Tons of stuff to do with the kids. They loved the lake and everything there was to do on it. Kayaks, paddle boards, jumps, slides. I even enjoyed the overhead speaker announcements. Added an old time feel to the campground," explains tom S.
Tips from RVers
Entrance challenges: RVers should prepare for steep entrance roads at some St. Clairsville area campgrounds. "Make sure you have a good tow vehicle as there is a steep hill at the entrance/exit of the camp ground," cautions Robert T. about Zion Retreat & RV Park.
Off-season advantages: Some RV parks offer better experiences during shoulder seasons. "We came to Shadow Lake in October to camp for the month. 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.
Site spacing considerations: Site proximity varies between RV parks in the region. "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," explains Kathryn P. about Zion Retreat.
