Newport, Ohio sits on the edge of Wayne National Forest in the southeastern part of the state, at an elevation around 650 feet. This area features rolling terrain with deciduous forest and access to the Ohio River. Seasonal temperature swings can be significant, with summer highs regularly reaching the mid-80s and winter lows dropping into the 20s.
What to do
Biking the North Bend Rail Trail: The 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail passes near River Run Campground, offering excellent cycling opportunities. "This humble campground is located on the 'Haunted' North Bend Rail to Trail. It was easy check in with a friendly staff. Great place to stay with plenty of room to enjoy yourself," notes William B.
Paddling opportunities: The region offers multiple waterways for canoeing and kayaking. "I paddled on the North Bend Lake which was extremely peaceful and beautiful, with the colors of fall surrounding me on all sides. I brought my own kayak, but they had boats for rent," shares Jennifer B., who visited Cokeley Campground.
Trail exploration: Wayne National Forest provides multiple hiking options around Newport. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Nice trails. Seem to be well maintained," reports Joe B. The Paw Paw trail is particularly recommended as "very smooth, dry and wide."
What campers like
River access: Waterfront sites are popular at several campgrounds. At River Run Campground, Julie C. states, "We were at site 13, right on the water. Check-in was easy and the staff was very friendly! Plenty of ice and firewood at the store and a cute little gift shop."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "North Bend State Park is about 10 miles south on Rt 16 off of Rt 50...east of Parkersburg, WV. Winding down to River Run, deer in abundance were lining the the roadway, so use care," writes Dave V.
Affordable camping: Budget-conscious pet owners appreciate the value. "Did I mention we're right on the Ohio River with full hookup for $25 a night?! Full hookup alone is worth more than 25 bucks," shares Clean Slate D. about Harris RV Park, a pet-friendly option near Newport.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all campsites are created equal in this region. At Mountwood Park Family Campground, Seána B. advises, "FYI. Most of the sites seemed small so it might be best for smaller setups. Also I did not see any pull through sites."
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "The primitive tent sites ($20 nightly) are less than desirable and more of an afterthought...and I'm being gracious. There is patchy tall grass, dirt and rocks with no leveled areas," notes Dave V. about Mountwood Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping conditions significantly. "We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool, and with the ice cream store nearby. There wasn't easy river access from the campground but we climbed down the hill with no problem," reports Jeremiah S.
Security awareness: Some dispersed camping locations require extra vigilance. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, Jack H. cautions, "The site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit. I've had two cars drive in after sunset who have just sat around for a bit then left."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Hune Bridge Campground offers family-friendly features. "Adorable little campground, with a historic covered bridge and lovely creek in the backyard. There are 4 campsites and a vault toilet that is relatively clean and well-stocked," writes Shari G.
Swimming options: During hot summer months, some campgrounds provide cooling options. "We had a wonderful time. The Park is great and we have stayed at lodge 4 times before but this was first camping trip. We stayed during historic heat wave but kept cool in the river, the pool," notes Jeremiah S.
Playground access: Several facilities include play areas for children. River Run Campground "would be good for kids because they have playgrounds, mini-golf and an outdoor swimming pool," according to Jennifer B.
Site recommendations: When booking at River Run Campground, consider specific sites. Jeremiah S. recommends: "Nice spacing at our site in particular. I would also recommend sites 10, 11, 17, 19, 13, and 14."
Tips from RVers
Approach routes: When traveling to North Bend State Park with an RV, plan your route carefully. "Come in via Harrisville as the way in via Cairo has very bad roads," advises James P. about Cokeley Campground.
RV site availability: At Ashland RV Park, "Large open campground minutes from downtown Marietta OH owner and Staff are very friendly and easy going! Clean, nice newer bath house. With laundry large shelter house," reports Keith O.
Hookup information: For full-service camping, options exist. "While an RV park, you can also tent camp with the amenities, making it really nice. Electrical hookups and water at your site, plus clean bathrooms and a shower house on the property," Jackie D. notes about Ashland RV Park.
Level sites: Cokeley Campground offers well-maintained RV sites. "Nice deep sites. Cokeley is W/E. Restrooms/showers are clean. Laundry on site. Most of the sites are not shaded, ours had partial shade," shares Kim M.
