Clendening Lake Marina and Campground

For Ohio residents seeking a tranquil and activity-rich outdoor escape, Clendening Lake Marina and Campground in Freeport, Ohio, offers an exceptional experience. Nestled on the shores of one of Ohio's largest undeveloped lakes, this destination provides a serene retreat from the everyday hustle. Known for its peaceful waters and abundance of recreational opportunities, Clendening Lake Marina and Campground is a true gem for families, anglers, boaters, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature right here in the heart of Ohio.

Clendening Lake itself is a highlight, boasting over 40 miles of undisturbed shoreline and a 9.9 horsepower motor limit for boats, which ensures a quiet and calm environment perfect for fishing and peaceful cruising. This restriction helps maintain the lake's serene ambiance, making it a unique draw for those who prefer a less crowded and more natural aquatic experience. Whether you're casting a line for muskie, saugeye, bass, or catfish, or simply enjoying a leisurely pontoon ride with loved ones, the lake provides a picturesque backdrop for all your aquatic adventures.

Beyond the lake, the campground facilities are designed to enhance your stay, offering a mix of camping options to suit various preferences. From primitive tent sites nestled into the hillside to full hookup RV sites with stunning lake views, there's a spot for everyone. The staff are frequently commended by visitors for their friendly and helpful demeanor, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience from arrival to departure. This commitment to guest satisfaction, combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, positions Clendening Lake Marina and Campground as a highly recommended destination for local Ohioans seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

Clendening Lake Marina and Campground is strategically located at 79100 Bose Rd, Freeport, OH 43973, USA. This address places it within Harrison County, a region of Ohio known for its rolling hills and picturesque rural landscapes. Its position makes it an accessible destination for residents across the state, particularly those in Eastern and Central Ohio.

While the campground offers a feeling of being "away from it all," it remains conveniently reachable via Ohio's road networks. Although some reviews mention the drive can be a bit hilly, the consensus is that the journey is well worth the effort for the peaceful and immersive experience that awaits. Freeport, a quaint village, provides a quiet gateway to the lake, ensuring that your escape into nature begins the moment you turn off the main roads. The relative ease of access from various parts of Ohio makes Clendening Lake a practical choice for weekend getaways or longer family vacations without requiring extensive travel.

• Campsites: A diverse range of campsites are available, including primitive sites for traditional tent camping, back-in electric sites (30-amp service), and premium full hook-up RV sites. Many sites offer waterfront views, while others are tucked into private, natural settings.

• Cabin Rentals: Beyond traditional camping, Clendening Lake Marina and Campground offers camper cabins (sleeping 4 or 6, no electric, bunks with no mats) and log cabins (sleeping 8-12, with A/C, heat, kitchenette, bath, WiFi, TV, and use of one dock slip), providing a more comfortable stay for those who prefer not to tent or RV.

• Boat Rentals: The marina offers pontoon and fishing boat rentals, available for hourly, daily, or weekly use, allowing visitors to explore the lake even if they don't own a boat.

• Docking Facilities: Seasonal and daily docking options are available for those who bring their own watercraft.

• Fuel Dock: Ethanol-free fuel is available on-site at one of the docks.

• Boat Repair Services: For convenience, boat repair services are also offered.

• Campground Store: The marina shop provides boating and camping supplies, gifts, bait and tackle, and snacks.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides well-maintained and clean facilities, including restrooms and showers, ensuring comfort for all campers.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RV and camper waste disposal.

• LP Gas Sales: Propane sales are available on-site.

• Clendening Lake: The focal point, known for its peaceful 9.9 horsepower motor limit, providing a serene environment for boating, fishing, and swimming in designated areas. It is the largest undeveloped lake in Ohio.

• Exceptional Fishing: Clendening Lake is renowned for its excellent angling opportunities, with a variety of fish species including largemouth bass, crappie, flathead catfish, channel catfish, white bass, saugeye (stocked annually), perch, bullhead, and bluegill. Spring bass fishing is particularly popular.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground is welcoming to pets, allowing them to accompany their owners as long as they are kept on a leash, making it a great choice for dog owners.

• Hiking Trails: The beautiful Clendening Lake Buckeye Trail runs along the lake's shoreline, offering scenic hiking opportunities for all skill levels.

• Picnic Areas: Dedicated picnic sites and shelters are available at the Clendening Lake Day Use Area and near the marina, perfect for outdoor meals.

• Playground: A playground is on-site, providing entertainment for younger campers.

• Boater Swim Area: While there are no designated swimming beaches, a marked boater swim area allows for refreshing dips in the lake.

• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Customer reviews frequently praise the staff for their friendly and accommodating nature, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

• Seasonal Activities: Clendening Lake Marina and Campground often hosts seasonal activities and events, adding to the fun and community atmosphere, especially from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Clendening Lake Marina and Campground offers various rates and potential discounts. Primitive campsites are approximately $40 per night, electric sites around $43 per night, and premium full hook-up sites are about $60 per night, with an additional $8 reservation fee per site. It is important to note that these rates are subject to change based on availability and season.

For those considering longer stays, a discounted 30-day rate for campsites is available. Additionally, seasonal camping permits are offered for a seven-month period, from April 1st to October 31st, providing a discount from the daily camping rate for designated seasonal sites. While federal recreation passes like the America the Beautiful pass are not honored, visitors over 60 or those with a Golden Buckeye Card receive a 10% discount on camping fees. For the most up-to-date pricing and any specific promotions or packages, it is always best to contact Clendening Lake Marina and Campground directly or visit the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) website for reservation information, as their system has recently changed.

To plan your visit, make reservations, or inquire about specific services and availability, you can contact Clendening Lake Marina and Campground using the following details:

• Address: 79100 Bose Rd, Freeport, OH 43973, USA

• Phone: (740) 433-4858

• Mobile Phone: +1 740-433-4858

For reservations, you can also visit the MWCD website (reserve.mwcd.org). Calling ahead is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred site or rental.

Clendening Lake Marina and Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for Ohio residents seeking a local, accessible, and fulfilling outdoor experience. Its proximity means less time spent traveling and more time enjoying the abundant recreational opportunities. The core appeal lies in Clendening Lake itself—its 9.9 horsepower limit creates a uniquely peaceful environment for boating and fishing, a rare find in today's often bustling recreational areas. This ensures a truly relaxing escape, ideal for unwinding and de-stressing.

The variety of camping options, from primitive sites to full hookup RV spots and comfortable cabins, caters to all preferences, making it easy for any Ohio family or individual to find their ideal lodging. The consistent praise for the friendly and helpful staff, coupled with the well-maintained facilities, ensures a comfortable and positive experience for every visitor. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a fun-filled day on the water, or simply someone yearning for quiet moments surrounded by nature, Clendening Lake Marina and Campground offers a complete and memorable package. Despite any minor concerns about pricing, the overall value provided by such a diverse and well-run facility, conveniently located within Ohio, solidifies its position as a premier local destination for outdoor adventure and relaxation. It’s an investment in quality time and lasting memories, easily within reach for every Ohioan.