Blue Heron Campground

Are you a West Virginian searching for a peaceful and picturesque spot to park your RV or set up your tent, with the soothing sounds of the Ohio River as your backdrop? Blue Heron Campground in Belmont offers an inviting escape that blends affordability with unique scenic experiences. Tucked away just over the Ohio line, this quiet campground provides a tranquil haven for campers looking to relax by the water, watch river traffic, and enjoy the distinct charm of the Ohio River Valley.

Blue Heron Campground is highly recommended for its quiet atmosphere and incredible value, making it an excellent choice for both short-term overnight stays and longer, more extended visits. It's a place where you can unwind, enjoy the simple pleasures of riverside living, and witness the unique spectacle of tugboats navigating the Ohio River and trains passing by. If you’re looking for an inexpensive, accessible, and serene camping spot in West Virginia that offers more than just a place to stay, Blue Heron Campground is a destination that promises a memorable and relaxing experience.

Location and Accessibility

Blue Heron Campground is located in Belmont, WV 26134, USA. While the provided address is a town name, additional public data indicates that the campground is located at 8825 Ripley Rd, Cottageville, WV 25239, which is also referred to as "Blue Heron Landing RV Campground" and near Cottageville. However, the reviews clearly link it to Belmont and being "just over the Ohio line," placing it directly on the banks of the Ohio River.

Its prime location right on the Ohio River offers immediate access to the scenic beauty of the waterway. This position also means campers get to enjoy the unique experience of watching river tugboats and barges pass by, and an active rail line behind the campground adds the occasional rumble of passing trains, contributing to the distinct character of the area. For West Virginia locals, the campground's accessibility is a key advantage. It is described as being "not hard to find off of I-77," making it a convenient stop for travelers or a quick escape for those living nearby. While not directly in a large city, its location near the Ohio border means it provides relatively easy access to amenities in nearby towns in both West Virginia and Ohio, such as Ripley for groceries, coffee shops, and restaurants, or even larger cities like Parkersburg for more extensive services.

Services Offered

• RV Sites with Hookups: Blue Heron Campground offers sites equipped with both water and power hookups, catering to the needs of RV and camper enthusiasts. Specific amperage (30 and 50 amp service) is confirmed for RV lots.
• Sites Without Hookups: For those preferring a more rustic or tent camping experience, sites without water and power are also available.
• Creek Side Tent Sites: Offers dedicated tent sites along Mill Creek, with direct on-site access for fishing, camping, and kayaking.
• Cabin Rental: Cabin rentals are available for those seeking an alternative to RV or tent camping.
• RV Rental: For those without their own RV, rental options are provided.
• Playground: An on-site playground is available, providing entertainment for younger campers.
• Laundry Room: Convenient laundry facilities are provided for guests, especially beneficial for longer stays.
• Trash Service: Regular trash collection is included for all sites.
• Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary internet access is available for campers.
• Showers and Toilets: Clean restroom and shower facilities are provided for guest convenience.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is welcoming to pets, though campers should call for specific pet restrictions.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase on-site (guests may bring their own fire rings, which must have a bottom; out-of-state firewood is not permitted).

Features / Highlights

• Direct Ohio River Views: A primary highlight is the campground's immediate proximity to the Ohio River, offering campers scenic river views and the captivating experience of watching tugboats and barges navigate the waterway. This unique feature creates a dynamic and interesting backdrop to your stay.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Reviewed as a "Quiet spot," Blue Heron Campground provides a serene environment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation and a break from noise and crowds. It’s perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature's sounds.
• Inexpensive Overnight Stays: The campground is noted for being a "Very inexpensive place to stay overnight," offering excellent value for campers, especially those passing through and needing a comfortable and affordable stop.
• Convenient Location: Tucked "just over the Ohio line," the campground offers easy access from I-77 (approximately 9 miles) and is convenient to nearby towns in both West Virginia (like Ripley) and Ohio for groceries, restaurants, and other necessities.
• Unique Train and Tugboat Sightings: The presence of an active rail line and barge channel provides an engaging and unique experience, offering daily sightings of long coal trains and river tugboats, adding a distinctive charm to the natural setting.
• Versatile Site Options: With sites offering water and power hookups, as well as more rustic options without, the campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, from full-service RVs to tent campers.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Being "very pet friendly" makes it an attractive destination for campers who wish to bring their furry companions along on their adventures.
• Mill Creek Access: Direct access to Mill Creek for fishing, camping, and kayaking adds another layer of outdoor recreation directly on site.
• Additional Lodging Options: The availability of cabin and RV rentals expands the offerings beyond traditional camping, providing solutions for those who don't own an RV or prefer a cabin stay.

Promotions or Special Offers

Blue Heron Campground, also known as Blue Heron Landing, offers a clear and competitive pricing structure that inherently provides value. While specific, flash-sale type promotions aren't widely advertised, their standard rates are designed to be "very inexpensive" for overnight stays and offer better value for longer durations. Their published rates (as of recent public data) are:

• Nightly: $40
• Weekly: $225
• Monthly: $550

These rates include water, electric, sewer, and trash services, indicating a comprehensive package for RV campers. They also advertise a military discount, which is a commendable ongoing offer.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current specials, availability, or to confirm rates and pet restrictions, it is always recommended to contact Blue Heron Campground directly. They are open all year and encourage direct calls for details, especially for cabin and RV rentals. Their transparent pricing for various stay lengths already serves as an attractive offer for those seeking a budget-friendly option in West Virginia.

Contact Information

• Address: While reviews list Belmont, WV, the more specific public data points to: 8825 Ripley Rd, Cottageville, WV 25239, USA
• Phone: (304) 531-9193
• Email: support@blueheronlandingwv.com

For reservations, inquiries about site availability (RV, tent, or rentals), current rates, pet policies, or any other questions, please contact Blue Heron Campground directly using the provided phone number or email address. Their office hours are typically Monday through Saturday, 2 PM - 6 PM, but it's best to call for current availability.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For West Virginians, Blue Heron Campground offers an ideal and accessible retreat that perfectly blends affordability with a tranquil, unique riverside experience. Its location right on the Ohio River provides a readily available escape from daily routines, allowing locals to enjoy stunning water views, the fascinating spectacle of passing tugboats, and the comforting rumble of trains, all without traveling far from home. This distinct ambiance creates a memorable backdrop for relaxation and reconnecting with nature, just a short drive away for many residents.

The campground's suitability is further enhanced by its flexible and inexpensive options. With both full hookup RV sites and more rustic tent sites, along with cabin and RV rentals, it caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets. The clear weekly and monthly rates offer significant value for longer stays, making it an excellent choice for West Virginians seeking a seasonal base or an extended work-related stay. Furthermore, the pet-friendly policy ensures that beloved furry family members can join the adventure. Blue Heron Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's a quiet, convenient, and truly West Virginian haven where locals can unwind, enjoy the river life, and create lasting memories right in their own beautiful state.