The Wayne National Forest across the Ohio border offers primitive tent campsites near Harrisville, West Virginia, most within a 30-45 minute drive. This region features low, wooded hills with elevation changes between 600-900 feet. Winter camping can see temperatures drop into the 20s, while summer months typically reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Fishing at creek access points: Hune Bridge Campground provides direct access to fishing spots with a historic covered bridge nearby. A camper noted, "Adorable little campground, with a historic covered bridge and lovely creek in the backyard" and mentioned that "The creeks are also great for fishing and float trips."
Hiking on established trails: The Lamping Homestead Recreation Area connects directly to the North Country Trail for day hiking. As one visitor explains, "The area is great for hiking, with the North Country Trail going right by the campground, cycling through the rolling hills of the backroads, and canoeing on the Little Muskingum River."
Horseback riding: The Kinderhook Trailhead serves as an equestrian access point with camping allowed. A camper observed, "With it being an equestrian trail, there were a lot of horses and trailers throughout the day. Before sunset, everyone cleared out and only campers remained."
What campers like
Affordability of sites: Most tent sites in the area are free or very low cost. At Hune Bridge Campground, a camper confirmed, "It is completely FREE, and you can stay for up to 14 days."
Basic campsite setups: The simplicity appeals to many visitors seeking no-frills camping. One camper described Kinderhook Trailhead as a "Unique Dispersed Camping" location, noting that "we pulled in and there was one couple setup at a designated site (picnic table and fire pit)."
Natural quietude: Camping areas become particularly peaceful after day visitors leave. At Lane Farm Campground, a visitor described it as "A cute little place, just 4 campsites and a vault toilet that is relatively clean and well-stocked."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent areas have minimal or no amenities. At Conaway Run State Lake, a camper stated, "Pretty rustic. Porta potties are all that is available. No running water so you have to bring your own."
Water availability: Bring sufficient water supplies as potable water is unavailable at most sites. Lane Farm users advised, "No drinking water is available and the creeks are quite muddy, so come prepared with water!"
Campground closures: Always check current status before traveling. One visitor to Wayne National Forest Haught Run Campground reported, "Completely closed...nope, nada, nothing there anymore! Bummer, but check out Hune Bridge Campground, just down the road."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across camping areas. At Lane Farm, campers noted, "There is no phone service within 4-5 miles of the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Drive-in site selection: Choose accessible sites for easier setup with children. One visitor to Lane Farm Campground shared, "Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern pole. It's designed for tent camping, but Hamlet (our small camper) fit fine with some strategic parking."
Community gathering spaces: Utilize group areas at certain campgrounds for family activities. At Lamping Homestead, "The group picnic area is great for bigger families or groups, with a campfire ring, grills and a covered picnic area."
Town proximity: Know the distance to supplies before setting up. Near Lamping Homestead, "The closest town is Woodsfield, OH, about 13 miles from this campground and has most of the supplies you may need."
Tips from RVers
Small RV considerations: Most sites accommodate tent camping primarily with limited RV options. One visitor to Hune Bridge noted, "This is a great drive in campsite perfect for family and friends to get into the woods for a bit."
Strategic parking requirements: Position carefully at sites not designed for vehicles. A Lane Farm camper explained that their "small camper fit fine with some strategic parking."
Supply planning: Stock up on essentials before arrival due to distance from services. The town of Marietta is referenced as "just 5 miles away, and has all the things you need" from Lane Farm, but many other campgrounds are more remote.
