Tomlinson Run State Park Campground sits at the northern tip of West Virginia, offering campers a wooded hilltop location just 3 miles from the Ohio River. The park's campground spans multiple loops with 54 sites, situated at approximately 1,100 feet elevation, providing a cooler summer retreat than the valley below. The camping area remains open seasonally from April 1 through October 31, with most sites featuring electric hookups.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Tomlinson Run State Park features a small lake where campers can fish without leaving the park grounds. "The park maintains well-marked paths suitable for walking pets on leashes. Water access is available for pets at the nearby lake area," notes one reviewer.
Swimming and boating: Raccoon Creek State Park, just 30 minutes from New Cumberland, offers more extensive water recreation. "A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun. The hiking trails are in excellent condition and the park keeps them clear of fallen debris," shares Jim L., who frequently visits with his dog.
Trail exploration: Beaver Creek State Park provides varied hiking terrain with historical sites. "There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc). Really historical area to check out and hike around," explains Shay D.
Target practice: For those interested in sport shooting, Hidden Hollow Campground at Fernwood State Forest has a nearby range. "Gun range 5 mins away or so," reports Jaysha L., adding "Picnic Tables, Fire pits, paved" sites are standard amenities.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Different campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. "This is the kind of place that has some really great sits and some not so great," explains Kevin C. about Tomlinson Run State Park, noting that while some sites lack privacy, others provide more separation.
Lake access: Guilford Lake State Park Campground is appreciated for its waterfront sites. "The camp sites on the water are very spacious, but the ones on the inside of the loop, not so much," reports Kevin C., also mentioning that "They have a playground, a basketball court, and their own beach for the campers."
Budget-friendly options: Free camping is available at Hidden Hollow Campground. "Very well kept, completely free 1st come campground just outside the very small town of Bloomingdale, OH. Pit toilets and no source of safe, clean water anymore," notes Joe W., adding it provides a "Very quiet, close to nature experience."
Family activities: Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins receives high marks for its recreational amenities. "TONS of stuff to do here. Very big campground, all kinds of sites," writes Mathew H., explaining there are "Inflatable slides and such in the lake, hiking trials, playgrounds, all sorts of stuff."
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, site choice impacts your experience. "Most of the camp sites have electricity, but most aren't level. It's the kind of place that has some really great sits and some not so great," explains Kevin C.
Seasonal considerations: Jefferson Lake State Park Campground has important seasonal restrictions. "Perfect for our little Scamp trailer. Only 5 big electric sites, no showers or potable water," reports Teri A., adding "But lately there has been no swimming because of blue green algae."
Alcohol regulations: Some parks prohibit alcohol consumption. "Alcohol prohibited," states Lauren M. about Tomlinson Run, where the policy is actively enforced. At Hidden Hollow, no such restriction exists.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "No service at all, no matter the carrier," warns Mathew H. about Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins, which is important for those needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: Many dog friendly campgrounds near New Cumberland welcome four-legged family members. At Raccoon Creek State Park, one camper shares, "Long holiday weekend trip. Love this park. Designated pet areas, flush toilets and shower house available. Plenty of trails."
Activity planning: Austin Lake offers diverse recreation. "Great camp ground! Lake and scenery was beautiful! Very clean and friendly help! Very kid oriented!" notes Shawn L., emphasizing its suitability for families with children.
Accessible facilities: Tomlinson Run State Park provides clean, maintained bathroom facilities. "Nice simple, small campground sites are for everyone, RV to tent, older bathhouses but clean. Swimming pool and lake for fishing and boating!" reports David A.
Nature exploration: Beaver Creek offers educational opportunities. "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop," shares Jay R. about their winter adventure.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some sites. "Most of the camp sites have electricity, but most aren't level," warns Kevin C. about Tomlinson Run State Park, suggesting RVers bring leveling blocks.
Water availability: Restrictions exist at some campgrounds. "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!" advises Bounding Around about Beaver Creek State Park.
Access considerations: Some parks have road restrictions. "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RVs/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!" cautions Bounding Around about accessing Beaver Creek State Park.
Dump station access: Jefferson Lake has limited facilities. "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," explains Eddie, highlighting infrastructure limitations.