Camping options near St. Marys, West Virginia range from lakeside sites to riverside retreats across southeastern Ohio and western West Virginia. The region sits at elevations between 580-800 feet with rolling hills and river valleys creating varied camping terrain. Cell service can be spotty in valleys while higher elevation campgrounds typically offer better connectivity.
What to do
Kayaking on the Muskingum River: The Muskingum River provides excellent paddling opportunities near Riversedge Campground. "They rent kayaks and canoes so if you have time take a trip down the river," notes Eric S., who enjoyed camping right on the river.
Hiking nearby gorges: The southern Ohio hill country offers unique geological features. "There are a couple hiking trails nearby (Piatt Park and Raven's Rock) which have incredible rock formations in the gorges," reports a camper at Shadow Lake RV Resort.
Biking on converted rail trails: The 72-mile North Bend Trail runs near Cokeley Campground in North Bend State Park. "Fantastic biking on the 72 mile North bend trail which is an abandoned rail way with multiple tunnels including one that is a quarter long and haunted," writes David D.
Lake activities at Wolf Run: Wolf Run State Park offers multiple water recreation options. One visitor mentioned, "We didn't try the trails due to the weather but if you are just looking to chill at the site with a great view this will do the trick."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain their facilities well despite age. At Wolf Run State Park Campground, a camper noted, "The showers are older but well kept up. No bugs, we even watch them broom the outside windows and doors knocking down all webs."
Attentive hosts: Personal touches from campground hosts enhance stays. At Riversedge Campground, Ken P. shared, "At the end of your stay Kelli sends you on your way with coffee and fresh cinnamon rolls."
Riverside camping spots: Sites along waterways are particularly popular. "Our tent was right on the river and Kelli was the best host ever! On our last day she brought us warm cinnamon rolls and coffee. We enjoyed them by our fire as we watched the mist gently float over the river," reported Eric S. about Riversedge Campground.
Privacy and quiet: Many campers appreciate the peaceful nature of the area. At Wolf Run State Park, a visitor commented, "We had the whole back section to ourself! Not a soul on site but a few boats out fishing."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several rv parks near St. Marys, West Virginia have difficult approach roads. "Do not follow GPS to get to North Bend SP(Cokeley or River Run) Call the park office directly. GPS took us up some nasty horse-shoe hills!" warns Kim M.
Variable site conditions: Campsite terrain varies significantly. At Wolf Run State Park Campground, Jay B. advises, "Would advise to visually check the sites, due to terrain which is rolling."
Trail conditions: Trail maintenance differs across parks. "We hiked following their trail but had to turn around as a bridge was closed," reports Shannon G. about Wolf Run State Park.
Payment policies: Some smaller rv parks near St. Marys have specific payment requirements. At Harris RV Park, a reviewer notes, "Cash or Check only."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation areas: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play spaces. "Has a playarea for kids with basketball court," mentions a camper at Wolf Run State Park.
Easy water access: Choose sites with convenient water access for children. At Riversedge Campground, Ken P. shares, "The tent sites are right next to the water and there is a beach and dock nearby also."
Fall activities: Autumn camping offers unique experiences. "We got engaged on the lake view site in early fall and also spent Halloween weekend there! It definitely adds a spook factor if you are camping that time of year," notes Rachel H. about Wolf Run.
Consider off-peak timing: Some campgrounds become very quiet during shoulder seasons. "We came to Shadow Lake in October to camp for the month... the campground is beautiful and peaceful, especially at this time of year as most of the campers have either gone south, closed up or pulled out for the season."
Tips from RVers
Big rig routing: RV campers should call ahead for routing advice. At Cokeley Campground, James P. recommends, "Come in via Harrisville as the way in via Cairo has very bad roads."
Dump station quality: Not all campgrounds have equal dump facilities. "Dump station is very well done and easily accessible with any RV configuration," notes a reviewer about Cokeley Campground.
Level site selection: Check site grades before booking. At Ashland RV Park, Keith O. notes, "Large open campground minutes from downtown Marrietta OH," making it convenient for supply runs.
Tight site spacing: Some campgrounds have limited maneuvering room. At Harris RV Park, one camper mentioned, "Tight spots, but pretty level. The owner, Max, is amazing. He met us with a welcome packet in a reusable bag."
