Fishing the Ohio River is the main draw at Leith Run Recreation Area, a US Forest Service campground in Wayne National Forest that sits close enough to the water to watch barges pass from the riverbank. Sites vary between open and forested terrain, and the campground runs from early April through late October. RVs up to 90 feet can be accommodated with electric and water hookups, and a dump station is on-site. Tent sites exist but require a walk in from the parking area. The campground skews heavily toward RV use, and site spacing is tight, so expect noise from neighbors. Firewood is available roughly 10 minutes away. Anglers and RV campers exploring camping near Wayne National Forest will find this a functional, well-maintained base along the river.
Description
Overview
Leith Run Campground provides a beautiful location on the Ohio River, where grassy campsites and picnic areas make for a comfortable getaway in the Wayne National Forest. The campground is equipped with modern conveniences like flush toilets and electricity.
Recreation
The campground provides access to the mighty Ohio River and the Willow Island Pool, where canoeing, kayaking, swimming and fishing are popular activities. A backwater estuary lies alongside the campground. A paved trail and a boardwalk with a gazebo offer not only wildlife viewing opportunities, but also an opportunity to access the estuary and surrounding wetlands area, where fishing is a favorite pastime. Anglers may catch bass, catfish and other species. Leith Run offers hiking opportunities, group picnic shelters and a playground for kids. A trailhead for the Scenic River Trail, which climbs to a bluff above the river, is available in the campground.
Facilities
Leith Run offers single-family campsites (accommodating up to eight individuals) and group picnic shelters, most of which are accessible. Picnic tables, campfire rings, grills and electric hookups are provided, as are accessible flush toilets, showers and drinking water. A dump station is on-site. An adjacent picnic area, complete with shelters, is equipped with tables, electricity and grills. It also offers a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, scenic overlooks and a playground.
Natural Features
The campground is located on the north banks of the beautiful Ohio River, just miles from the Ohio-West Virginia border, near the town of Newport, Ohio. A scenic hardwood-pine forest covers the campground, which has many waterfront sites.
Nearby Attractions
The Covered Bridge Scenic Byway passes by the campground and provides a romantic view of the countryside, complete with forested hills, open pastures and four 19th century covered bridges. Legend has it that it's a tradition for visitors passing over the covered bridges to hold their breath and make a wish.
Fee Info
There is a $5 electric hookup fee. The total fee of family electric site is composed of $15 basic camping fee and $5 electric fee.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Leith Run will re-open on August 5th, 2026 with limited services. Sites 1-18 are cleared and ready for camping. The bathhouse is open and fully functioning. All trails in the campground and area, including the gazebo trail, will continue to be closed due to storm damage. Be aware that continued clean-up efforts will be occurring at the campground and on adjacent trails. This will include the use of chainsaws and heavy machinery. Thank you for your understanding while we continue repairs.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsWayne National Forest Leith Run Recreation Area is located in Ohio near St. Marys
Public CampgroundDirections
From Marietta, Ohio, travel approximately 21 miles on Highway 7 to the campground.
Address
44400 STATE ROUTE 7
New matamoras, OH 45767
Coordinates
39.4457056 N
81.1512 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/14/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/14/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
