Camping opportunities around Williamstown, West Virginia include sites within a 30-mile radius in southeastern Ohio and western West Virginia. The region sits along the Ohio River valley with elevations ranging from 600-1200 feet and a humid continental climate. Summer temperatures average 80-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring 60-70°F temperatures and occasional rainfall.
What to do
Lake activities: Burr Oak State Park Campground offers kayaking, boating, and swimming options. The lake is a focal point for recreation during warmer months. "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach," notes Larissa C., who adds that "the lodge has been remodeled and is absolutely beautiful and the food at the restaurant is delicious."
Trail exploration: Hiking paths with varying difficulty levels exist throughout the region. Lake Hope State Park Campground provides "superb trails with tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn. The terrain is undulating but very doable," according to Dave V., who describes the trails as essential to the park experience.
Fishing options: Several lakes permit fishing with daily or seasonal licenses. The lakes contain various fish species including bass, catfish, and panfish. "The lake is pretty beautiful. There are boat rentals and a frisbee golf course," explains Megan M. about Forked Run, where fishing remains a popular activity throughout spring and summer.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds in the region offer peaceful settings away from city noise. "Very close to the nice little downtown Marietta, Ohio but still very rural location. Large sites. Great staff. Absolutely love this place. Slow pace and quiet," says James P. about Ashland RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded areas provide habitat for deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Morning and evening offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. At Hook Lake Campground, Devin C. mentions, "Good trails to hike and wonderful scenery. No cell reception unless you have satellite. 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."
Accessible water features: Lakes and streams throughout the camping areas allow for cooling off during hot summer days. "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," Keith O. says of Ashland RV Park's water access.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain that can pose challenges for tents and RVs. "Back ins are sort and most sites have no level ground even for the picnic table or fire ring," explains Bob L. regarding Forked Run State Park Campground, suggesting campers should arrive early to secure flatter sites.
Bathroom facilities vary: Restroom quality differs significantly between campgrounds, from modern facilities to basic outhouses. "Outhouses are gross. Usable, but gross. No water hook ups, but a place to fill your tank behind water fountains," Sandra S. notes about Forked Run State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Reception can be spotty or nonexistent at more remote campgrounds. "I have Verizon which is almost constant, and TMobile which is spotty. Other sites might not have as good of cell service," James D. reports about Hook Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach options: Several lakes feature dedicated swimming areas with sandy shores. "We have camped here for many years and up to 10 days at a time. Looking forward to our next trip and hitting the beach again," Michelle D. shares about Forked Run State Park Campground, highlighting its appeal for families with children.
Playground access: Strouds Run State Park Campground provides play areas for children near camping sites. "The trails are worth it though! Lots of mountain bikers and trail runners frequent the trails. Strouds is a great place to rent a paddle board, kayak, canoe, or pontoon. There are picnic tables, a beach volley ball area, and bathrooms," Lucille W. explains about amenities families appreciate.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs run during summer months at select campgrounds. "Hiking trails are good, the lodge has been renovated, however, I have not stayed there since the reno. Fairly remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," says Leon H. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Tips for RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs and require advance planning. "Large open campground minutes from downtown Marietta OH. Clean, nice newer bath house with laundry large shelter house. I believe there is dockage but not sure if it is for seasonal rental only. Hook ups for each site!" Keith O. notes about Ashland RV Park.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between campgrounds, with some offering full hookups while others provide only electric. "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. explains about the facilities at Ashland RV Park.
Dump station locations: Blue Rock State Park Campground and several other area campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities, though some may close seasonally. "I've never smelled anything so bad in my life and dirty, dirty, dirty! No showers were available in the grounds we stayed at but over by the beach area there was showers available," Nicole F. cautions about maintaining expectations for facilities.
