The Matamoras, Ohio area sits at the junction of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers in the Appalachian foothills, creating varied terrain for camping experiences. Most campgrounds in this region range from 650-1,100 feet in elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping options remain available at several locations with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Salt Fork State Park Campground offers diverse fishing opportunities at its 2,952-acre lake. "The lake is pretty beautiful. The trails are well marked and the horse trails go on for miles and miles," notes Annie V. who stayed at the park.
Hiking near historic sites: Explore Forked Run State Park's network of trails that connect to the Ohio River. "There are plenty to do with fishing and hiking. A lot of people in the area mainly go for swimming or to play frisbee golf," explains Andrew S. who found the park's location convenient.
Zip lining adventures: Grand Vue Park features high-flying activities for thrill seekers. According to a visitor, "GrandVue has many things to do including games, climbing, and of course those huge zip lines (the longest over 2000 feet)." The park combines outdoor adventure with comfortable glamping in Matamoras, Ohio region.
Disc golf courses: Several parks offer disc golf options for all skill levels. "There is a frisbee golf course. Overall, this part of the park is beautiful," reports Megan M. who visited Forked Run State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Shadow Lake RV Resort provides generous site spacing. "The sites are pretty spread out, which is very nice. There is a big equestrian camping area, which is cool," says a visitor who appreciated the layout at Hook Lake Campground.
Local food options: Nearby towns offer dining opportunities when you need a break from camp cooking. "The best part is the Vue Bar and Grill, the food is surprisingly good. Cooked well and is large portions," David D. mentioned about his experience at Grand Vue Park.
Free camping opportunities: Some areas still offer no-cost camping. "This is a free campsite that was part of the AEP reclamation lands... We did talk to a ranger while we were at the campground. He gave me an Ohio State Park envelope to fill in. Notice, the payment area is X out. It is still free at the moment," explains Kenpocentaur K. about Hook Lake.
Accessible water recreation: Many campgrounds feature direct water access. "On the way to McConnelsville there is a Miner's Memorial Park. This would be something you would want to check out to see the massive bucket," adds Kenpocentaur K. about the areas surrounding Hook Lake.
What you should know
Limited services at primitive sites: Be prepared for basic facilities at some locations. "No water hook ups, but a place to fill your tank behind water fountains. Camping is deserted pretty much on weekdays and on weekends the same people camp in the same spots a lot, probably because most spots are not level," Sandra S. warns about Forked Run State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds have active wildlife that requires precautions. "The raccoons were a little too close for comfort in the evening make sure you lock your food and trash in your car at night," advises Devin C. from their experience at Hook Lake.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "Make sure you fill in the new registration envelopes as you can see here cell phone coverage is limited to Verizon. T-Mobile and AT&T had no coverage. Even with Verizon there were several spots where I did not get coverage," notes Kenpocentaur K. about Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Seasonal facility changes: Some parks reduce services during off-season. "The campground had no water hookups, about 90% of the sites were not level (and....I mean by A LOT)," reports Connor M. about their November visit to Barkcamp State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly beaches: Several parks have designated swimming areas for children. "Our family loves to camp at this local campground, super clean bathrooms and pool with kids area is so much fun. We had the best time when we camped at there for the fair, it was right next to the campground," shares Donna R. about their stay at Lone Pine Campground.
Check youth fishing rules: Some parks have age-specific regulations. "At the campground children up to the age of 15 are allowed to fish. Adults need to go elsewhere to fish," notes Kenpocentaur K. about Hook Lake's policies.
Consider glamping options for comfort: Luxury camping provides amenities for easier family trips. "This yurt is 100% Bigfoot themed and has all the essentials including a shower house with laundry, a creek, and an amazing bed," describes a visitor to Bigfoot Ridge in the Matamoras glamping region.
Explore educational opportunities: The area offers history and nature learning. "Salt Fork State Park of Ohio is for individual, couples or group camping. Trails that lead along shore line to old stone house built in early days of Ohio. Caves to be explored that are easy to access," JH T. explains about the educational aspects of Salt Fork.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling needs: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "We were one of the only people in the campground, so we ended up just moving to one of the more level campgrounds...a lot of the RV spots are unlevel up a hill, so backing in would be a hassle," warns Connor M. about their experience at Barkcamp State Park Campground.
Electricity options vary: Research amperage availability before arrival. "50amp, 30amp hookups at all sites," notes mgaston551 about Grand Vue Park's electrical capabilities.
Seasonal RV considerations: Some campgrounds close water hookups during cold months. "It's a cute campground, but a lot of the RV spots are unlevel up a hill, so backing in would be a hassle. Wouldn't stay here again," Connor M. shares about their November experience.
Look for pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access. "We usually stay about a week to attend conventions or go antiquing. Nice wide pull thrus," Butch A. appreciates about Spring Valley Campground.
