Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina

Hey there, Ohio adventurers! Are you seeking a top-notch camping experience that combines the tranquility of nature with modern conveniences and a plethora of activities for the whole family? Look no further than the Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina. Situated in the picturesque Appalachian foothills of Southern Ohio, this newer campground offers a fantastic blend of comfort and outdoor fun, making it an ideal destination for your next getaway.

Shawnee State Park, often affectionately referred to as "The Little Smokies" due to its rugged, wooded hills and erosion-carved valleys, is a gem in Ohio's park system. The Ohio River Campground & Marina is a significant addition to this natural haven, designed with the modern camper in mind. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about this impressive campground, from its strategic location and excellent accessibility to the wide array of services and features that make it a standout choice for campers across the Buckeye State. Get ready to pack your bags and experience the best of Ohio's outdoors!

Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina is conveniently located at 11152 US-52, Stout, OH 45684, USA. This prime address places it directly along the scenic Ohio River, providing stunning views and direct access to one of the nation's most iconic waterways. The campground is nestled within the expansive 1,095-acre Shawnee State Park, which in turn is surrounded by the vast 63,000-acre Shawnee State Forest, making it an immersive nature experience.

Accessibility to the campground is excellent, thanks to its position directly off US-52. This major highway ensures a smooth journey for campers arriving from various parts of Ohio and neighboring states. Once inside the park, the campground features paved sites, enhancing ease of access for both RVs and trailers. As one reviewer noted, "All the sites are paved. Most are quite large. The pull throughs are extra long," which speaks to the thought put into accommodating larger vehicles and making setup hassle-free.

While the campground itself is "wide open so not a lot of shade" in the newer sections, this openness allows for easier maneuverability and provides a bright, inviting atmosphere. The integration of the marina right alongside the campground further amplifies its accessibility for boaters, offering direct river access and fueling facilities. The park's commitment to accessibility extends to some of its sites, with 5 of the 80 full hook-up sites being ADA accessible, demonstrating an effort to welcome all visitors.

Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina boasts an impressive array of services designed to ensure a comfortable and activity-rich camping experience.

• Full Hook-Up Campsites: A major highlight, the campground features 80 full hook-up sites, each with paved pads. This means you’ll have access to electric, water, and sewer connections directly at your site, offering the ultimate convenience for RV and trailer campers. Each site also includes a fire ring and picnic table.

• Spacious Sites: Reviewers consistently praise the size of the campsites, noting that "Most are quite large" and "The pull throughs are extra long," providing ample space for your setup and outdoor living.

• Modern Restrooms and Laundry: The campground is equipped with heated shower houses, flush toilets, and laundry facilities, addressing key comfort needs for all campers.

• Dump and Water Filling Stations: Convenient dump and water filling stations are available, ensuring easy management of your RV's utilities.

• Camp Store/Check-in: A dedicated camp store and check-in point are on-site, offering essential supplies and assistance for campers.

• Marina Services: The adjacent marina provides a fueling dock, kayak rentals, room rentals, Ohio River fishing access, a public access boat ramp, and transient and seasonal dock slips, catering to all your boating needs.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted on all campsites, making it easy to bring your furry family members along for the adventure.

• Reservations: Campsite reservations can be made up to six months in advance online or by calling the central reservation line, highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Beyond the excellent services, Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina offers numerous features that truly set it apart as a premier camping destination in Ohio.

• Extensive On-Site Activities: This campground offers "Tons of stuff to do without even leaving the park," as one reviewer enthusiastically stated. Highlights include disc golf, a 3D archery range, a static archery range, an outdoor fitness equipment area, and a playground.

• Splash Pad: A huge draw for families, the splash pad offers a fantastic way for kids (and adults!) to cool off and have fun, especially on warm Ohio days. (Note: there may be a small fee for non-campers.)

• Dedicated Dog Park: For those traveling with canine companions, the "spacious dog park" with "everything you'd want" is a major plus, ensuring your pets can enjoy their outdoor adventure too.

• Hike/Bike Trail: Campers can enjoy a paved "hike/bike trail that's fully within the park," offering a safe and scenic route for walking, jogging, or cycling.

• Ohio River Access: The campground's direct proximity to the Ohio River and its marina allows for unparalleled access to boating, fishing, and scenic views of the mighty river. A one-mile paddling loop, created from former golf course water hazards, offers unique kayaking opportunities with rentals available.

• Proximity to Shawnee State Forest: Being surrounded by the 63,000-acre Shawnee State Forest provides endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and immersing yourself in Ohio’s largest state forest, often called "The Little Smokies" for its rugged beauty.

• Newer Infrastructure: As a relatively new addition to Shawnee State Park, the campground benefits from "newer infrastructure," ensuring modern and well-maintained facilities.

While specific, flash promotions aren't typically a constant feature of state park campgrounds, Shawnee State Park and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) aim to provide consistent value and often have broader programs that benefit campers.

• Ohio State Parks Reservation System: Booking online or by phone often provides the best rates and ensures campsite availability, especially given the popularity of this new campground. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.

• Off-Peak Season Availability: During the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or winter, you might find increased availability and potentially more serene conditions, offering a quieter and sometimes more affordable experience. While rates are generally fixed, less demand often means more choice.

• Annual Pass Information: While individual campsite discounts are rare, Ohio State Parks often have various passes or programs for frequent visitors that might offer benefits for park entry or other amenities. It's always a good idea to check the ODNR website for the most current information on any such statewide programs.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current offerings or to make reservations, it is always recommended to visit the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources website or call the park directly.

To plan your visit or inquire further about Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 11152 US-52, Stout, OH 45684, USA

Phone Number: (740) 858-6681 (Camp Store/Check-in) or (740) 858-4491 (Alternate Camp Store line).

The main Shawnee State Park office number is (740) 858-6652, which can also provide general park information.

For campsite reservations, you can also call the central Ohio State Parks reservation line at (866) 644-6727 or visit the Ohio State Parks online reservation system.

For Ohio locals, Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina presents an almost unbeatable option for a well-rounded and highly enjoyable camping experience. Its location in Stout, within the renowned "Little Smokies" region of the state, offers a convenient escape to breathtaking natural beauty that feels a world away, yet is easily accessible by major roadways.

The core suitability for locals lies in its modern amenities and diverse activity offerings. With 80 full hook-up, paved, and generously sized sites, it caters perfectly to the increasing number of Ohio families and individuals who own RVs or trailers, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free setup. The availability of clean, heated shower houses and laundry facilities further elevates the comfort level, making it suitable for longer stays and families with children.

What truly makes this campground shine for local users, however, is the sheer volume of on-site entertainment. You don't need to leave the park to find something fun to do! The splash pad is a fantastic feature for kids, providing a much-needed respite on hot summer days and adding a unique recreational element not found at all campgrounds. The dedicated dog park is a huge draw for pet owners, acknowledging that our furry friends are part of the family vacation. Furthermore, the expansive hike/bike trail, disc golf, archery ranges, and direct access to the Ohio River and its marina for boating and kayaking mean that every member of the group, regardless of age or interest, will find something to enjoy. This comprehensive package of modern facilities, abundant activities, and stunning natural surroundings makes Shawnee State Park Ohio River Campground & Marina a premier choice for Ohioans seeking a memorable, convenient, and activity-packed outdoor adventure close to home.