Tent camping options around Steubenville, Ohio extend across the Ohio-Pennsylvania border through rolling Appalachian foothills. Situated where the Ohio River creates a natural boundary between states, campers find diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 83°F and winter lows around 22°F, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season.
What to do
River activities: Campers at Dravo's Landing Campground have direct access to the Youghiogheny River. "This campsite is a nice reward for west-bound riders on the GAP trail, and a nice easy introduction to bikepacking camping for the east-bound," notes Shari G., who recommends bringing earplugs due to train noise.
Biking excursions: The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail connects multiple campgrounds. The GAP Trail Campground caters exclusively to cyclists with premium amenities. One visitor described it as "more like a Spa than a Campground" with "a covered seating, dining, and cooking area" just a short walk from town restaurants.
Nature exploration: Take advantage of seasonal activities like spring wildflower hikes, summer fishing, and fall foliage viewing. The cannabis-friendly Laurel Highlands Hemp Farm offers unique programming including "Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," according to reviewer Ashley F.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise well-maintained sites. At Pioneer Trails Tree Farm Campground, Frederick B. noted during his bicycle tour across the US that he found "clean bathroom, office to charge electronics and a campsite with firepit was great. Nice and quiet here also."
Unique settings: Pioneer Trails Tree Farm offers camping among Christmas trees, creating distinctive experiences. Andrew O. shares that "The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids," though he wished "toilet access was a little closer for the women."
Communal spaces: Group camping areas with fire pits and picnic tables enhance social experiences. Sarah Q. from Dravo's Landing recalls, "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars."
What you should know
Wildlife precautions: Secure food properly at riverfront campsites. "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" warns Sarah Q. about her stay at Dravo's Landing.
Train noise: Many campgrounds along the GAP trail experience regular train traffic. "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up," explains Shari G., emphasizing the importance of quality earplugs.
Reservation requirements: Call ahead to confirm availability and services. At Twin Hills Campground, advance reservations are required year-round, and electric hookups are available for tent campers wanting additional amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Choose sites with built-in activities for children. At Pioneer Trails Tree Farm, families can explore the tree farm itself, with Andrew O. noting how "the trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids."
Space considerations: Dravo's Landing accommodates large groups with multiple picnic tables and fire pits. Sarah Q. mentioned her group of 14 had "plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars."
Bathroom access: Check bathroom proximity when camping with young children. Andrew O. at Pioneer Trails wished "toilet access was a little closer for the women," suggesting families select sites closer to facilities.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Steubenville have few RV-specific amenities. At Dravo's Landing, while RVs are permitted, Lauren C. notes it's primarily a "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River," better suited for tent camping.
Alternative accommodations: Consider Laurel Highlands Hemp Farm for glamping options including a yurt with a bed for those wanting camping comfort without an RV. Ashley F. describes the location as offering "one yurt with a bed" that "overlooks the Laurel Highlands Hemp field, and surrounding mountains."
Access challenges: Many camping areas require walk-in or hike-in access unsuitable for RVs. The GAP Trail Campground specifically restricts access to cyclists, making it inappropriate for RV camping regardless of vehicle size.
