Windsor Heights camping options range from state-maintained campgrounds to private retreats nestled in the rolling Appalachian foothills of West Virginia and nearby Ohio. The region sits at elevations between 600-1200 feet, featuring diverse terrain from wooded hillsides to lakeside settings. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operation from April through October, with some facilities extending limited services during winter months.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: Clendening Lake Marina offers multiple kayak launches for exploring the quiet waters. "The lake is amazing fishing spot with 9.9 hp boat restrictions," notes Tanner G., highlighting the peaceful environment.
Hiking trail variety: Salt Fork State Park provides well-maintained trails for various skill levels. "There are a number of good hikes within the park. We were there Columbus weekend and it was hopping but everyone quieted by 10," explains reviewer Ralph P.
Climbing activities: Grand Vue Park offers adventure options beyond standard camping. According to reviewer mgaston551, "GrandVue has many things to do including games, climbing, and of course those huge zip lines."
Horseback trails: Barkcamp State Park Campground accommodates equestrian campers. "You can camp along with your horses. First camp we've been to with horses along side of your camper. Very cool! The trails are mostly for all horses, humans, and snowmobiles," shares Bobby C.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Atwood Lake Park Campground offers prime lakeside sites. "The H campground loops are full hookups, some right on the water. Docks available 50' from our waterfront lot. We could leave our camper, take the boat over to the beach and drop off the grandkids," explains Susan S.
Privacy levels: Tent sites at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground provide seclusion. "Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road / cul-de-sac," notes Dusty R.
Campground layout: The tent camping areas at Grand Vue Park offer a unique setup. "The tent areas are spread out and each has a fire ring, picnic table and fire wood is free! The tent areas are spread out and there isn't an actual road to each of the sites," shares David D.
Quiet surroundings: Zion Retreat & RV Park provides peaceful camping experiences. "The views are amazing! If you love peace and quiet this is the place for you. All sites are amongst the very tall trees," writes Kathryn P.
What you should know
Site levelness concerns: Several campgrounds have challenging terrain. At Barkcamp State Park, "a lot of the RV spots are unlevel up a hill, so backing in would be a hassle," mentions Connor M.
Off-grid considerations: Limited connectivity is common in the region. Clendening Lake has "ZERO cell phone reception (we have gone there with both ATT & Verizon) but we weren't there to play on cell phones," explains Andy F.
Seasonal closures: Water access changes throughout the year. "We stayed here November 21, 2020. The campground had no water hookups, about 90% of the sites were not level (and....I mean by A LOT)," reports Connor M. about Barkcamp State Park.
Shower facilities: Tappan Lake Park Campground offers quality facilities. According to mgaston551, "I was very happy with the facilities (restrooms, showers, and laundromat). The park was relatively clean and well organized."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Salt Fork State Park offers diverse family activities. "You can hike, swim, boat, bike and horseback ride. Primitive tent camping all the way to upscale lodge stays," explains Shelly S.
Swimming options: Multiple water recreation choices exist near Windsor Heights. At Barkcamp State Park, "There is a lake (one of the smallest I've seen in a state park), some trails and a small campground. The spaces are pretty spread out, which is very nice," shares Megan M.
Equipment considerations: Prepare for specific electrical needs. At Clendening Lake Marina, "You do need a special plug for the electric, we didn't realize this and did not bring one. I was panicked at first since I needed a fan to get through the 89 degree weather in a tent but the front office has spares you can borrow!" reports Ashley E.
Children's activities: Salem-Lisbon Ohio KOA provides structured entertainment. "There is so much for families to do. Staff is super friendly. We will be back!" states Clean Slate D.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Atwood Lake Park has varying site types. "The campground is HUGE (more than 500 sites), and it's absolutely jam packed with RVs and permanent trailers," mentions Cassandra C.
Hookup availability: RV sites at Grand Vue Park include full services. Reviewer mgaston551 notes, "Grand Vue has a brand new rv camping park. 40 spots with full hookups. A gated campground with a paved main road running through. The lots are gravel and somewhat level."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. At Zion Retreat & RV Park, reviewer Robert T. advises, "Make sure you have a good tow vehicle as there is a steep hill at the entrance/exit of the camp ground."
Late-season camping: Winter glamping in Windsor Heights area is limited. "We stayed in area 5. Awesome place. It was late October so most things were closed. We'll definitely be back in 2024," shares Denise H. about Tappan Lake Park.
