Camping sites near St. Clairsville, Ohio encompass varied terrain across the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,300 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through February. Many campgrounds in this area feature uneven terrain with sites situated on hillsides requiring careful leveling for RVs.
What to do
Horseback trails access: At Barkcamp State Park Campground, equestrian campers can enjoy dedicated facilities. "This is set up with a whole section for horse camping with tie outs and trailer/truck sites. Lots of bridle trails and a really quiet park," notes Andrea F., who also mentions the "nice dam and beach area."
Adventure park activities: Grand Vue Park offers multiple recreational activities beyond camping. According to David D., "There is many other things to do there as well. They have an adventure park but we didn't make it there." Another visitor mentions "many things to do including games, climbing, and of course those huge zip lines (the longest over 2000 feet)."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes in the region provide fishing options. At Hidden Hollow Campground, Justin T. explains it's "minutes away" from fishing spots. Donald F. adds that their 40-foot school bus conversion had "no problem" getting in and finding "mostly level spots" with "camp fire rings and picnic tables at most sites."
What campers like
Affordability: Free camping options exist within 30 minutes of St. Clairsville. According to Joshua B., at Ronsheim Campground, "It's nothing much, there isn't much in the way of activity save a few trails. However if you like adding trails to your list or you're fine with driving a little bit to Harrison or Salt Fork, they aren't far away at all. The overall reason I gave 5 stars though, is because it's free."
Scenic water views: Lakeside camping positions are highly valued at several campgrounds. Kathryn P. notes 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."
Modern facilities: Some campgrounds feature updated amenities. At Salt Fork State Park Campground, Jacqueline F. reports, "The paid sites are pretty close together and unless you find a spot close to the showers, it's quite the commute." Ralph P. adds, "This park is very well groomed and most of the trails within the park had been cleared of vegetation so there was no fighting through the weeds."
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Many campsites in this region feature sloped terrain. At Tappan Lake Park Campground, mgaston551 observes that Section 5 has "Sites are new, clean, full hookups, with plenty of paved surfaces to park. Camper sites are level and the hookups are new and easy to use." In contrast, Bobby C. states that at Barkcamp State Park "most of the site are on a hill...there are a handful flatter spaces."
Seasonal operations: Winter camping options are limited. Connor M. reports that during November at Barkcamp State Park Campground, "The campground had no water hookups, about 90% of the sites were not level (and....I mean by A LOT)." Darrel and Mary W. suggest seasonal timing affects experience: "Love this place, especially early spring and into late fall.... loop B is the boom!"
Cell service limitations: Several areas have limited connectivity. Linda G. mentions "no Verizon cell service" at Ronsheim Campground. At Clendening Lake Marina & Campground, Ashley E. warns, "There is no cell service up there so be prepared, we lost it for about 20 minutes before the camp site. We have sprint."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer child-oriented activities. Lindsay W. says Barkcamp State Park is a "Great place to take kids for cookout and swimming/boating. Many area's with grills set up, but Holliday, it fills up fast. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes. No longer has changing rooms unless u wanna change in a porta potty!"
Educational experiences: Several campgrounds provide learning opportunities. At Salt Fork State Park Campground, Shelly S. notes historical features: "There is a stone house to view as well as a cave. We explored both and thought they were both interesting."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer animal sightings. At Zion Retreat & RV Park, Kathryn P. advises visitors to "keep an eye our for deer as you come into the park! We had to stop a few times for them to move out of the driveway."
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RV campers should research site dimensions and conditions. At Clendening Lake Marina & Campground, Laura M. advises, "Make sure you ask for a level spot if you are in a shorty van…some are quite steep." Jim F. recommends Tappan Lake's Section 5 as "the bomb!! We stayed in the 5-520-531 section. Sites are new, clean, full hookups, with plenty of paved surfaces to park."
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies by campground and season. At Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, Larry M. describes "sight 32 f loop. It is sunny so pick your spots. Clean rr's with good showers but a bit old."
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entrance routes. At Grand Vue Park, mgaston551 notes it has "a paved main road running through. The lots are gravel and somewhat level." Connor M. warns that at Barkcamp State Park, "a lot of the RV spots are unlevel up a hill, so backing in would be a hassle."
