Camping sites near Ravenswood, West Virginia sit primarily in river valley terrain with elevations ranging from 570 to 850 feet above sea level. The region's humid continental climate brings distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Cellular service fluctuates dramatically between Ohio River sites and inland locations, with many campers reporting one-bar reception or complete dead zones in hollows and ravines.
What to do
Disc golf at lakeside courses: Forked Run State Park Campground features a dedicated disc golf course alongside its lake. "There is plenty to do with fishing and hiking. A lot of people in the area mainly go for swimming or to play frisbee golf," writes Andrew S. The course winds through wooded sections near the water.
Hummingbird viewing programs: Lake Hope State Park Campground hosts special bird viewing events. "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. They pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!" reports Chris C. These programs typically run mid-summer through early fall.
Explore historic iron production sites: History buffs can visit Hope Furnace near Lake Hope, which showcases Ohio's industrial past. "As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," notes Dave V. The furnace ruins stand just outside the campground entrance and feature interpretive signage.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: During non-peak times, several campgrounds near Ravenswood offer exceptional solitude. "Each time I have stayed at Lake Hope State Park, I have marveled at why there are only a few stray campers in a state park of 190 sites. Granted...I am usually camping during the week...but its a ghost town," writes Dave V.
Freshwater jellies: Forked Run State Park Campground features a lake with unusual wildlife. "What makes the lake unique at Forked Run is that it contains dime sized fresh water jelly fish. These type aren't able to sting you," explains Andrew S. These rare creatures are typically visible during warmer months.
Local river towns: Small communities along the Ohio River provide diversion for campers. "We did a couple day trips down to Pomeroy, which is a nice little river town with ice cream, playgrounds, and shops less than five miles from the campground," shares Jeremiah S. about staying at Kountry Resort Campground.
What you should know
Facility conditions vary widely: Many campgrounds in the area have aging infrastructure. "This park campground is nice, but lost in time. Outhouses are gross. Usable, but gross. No water hook ups, but a place to fill your tank behind water fountains," Sandra S. notes about Forked Run State Park.
Uneven terrain at most sites: Expect sloping campsites throughout the region. "Camp sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4" off ground to get close to level. Site around is sloped in all directions," reports Daniel about Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Limited cell connectivity: Most campgrounds have poor reception. "There is no Wi-Fi or cable and the cell signal with Verizon was one bar at best," writes Larry about Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds. Many campgrounds recommend downloading maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with swimming beaches: Several lakeside options include dedicated swim areas. "Lake Hope gave me a new way to experience an area I grew very close to and appreciate but cannot stand the swarms of people. It was a great quiet and spacious campground with solid amenities and its own nearby sites," writes Lori L.
Consider splash pools and playgrounds: Krodel Park Campground offers family-friendly recreation. "Nice lake and splash pool for the kids. Paved 1 mile path around the lake," notes Patricia C. The paved trail makes for easy walking with strollers or young bikers.
Water recreation rentals: Several campgrounds offer equipment for water activities. "I'm a tent camper and a hiker, but my family and I even spent some time at the lake and rented a paddle board and a water bike which was so much fun!" shares Anne P. about Lake Hope State Park.
Tips from RVers
Access road cautions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "The road isn't nearly as bad as some have said. It has place for caution but isn't scary," Larry notes about the drive to Rippling Waters Church of God Campgrounds. Most larger rigs can navigate the roads with care.
Payment options: Prepare for traditional payment methods. "They only accept cash or check and you pay when you get there. I wasn't assigned a reservation number but the owner said assured me I had a spot booked and it's just her and her husband that work there," Karen explains about Krodel Park Campground.
Site length variations: Statts Mills Campground offers limited access for larger units. "The entrance does not accommodate an RV or a large camper even though the owner said it did," warns Brenda M. When booking, confirm exact measurements for rigs over 25 feet.
