Franklin Furnace / Ohio River KOA Journey

For Ohioans seeking a fantastic blend of riverside tranquility and family-friendly fun, the Franklin Furnace / Ohio River KOA Journey stands out as a premier camping destination. Nestled along the scenic banks of the mighty Ohio River in southern Ohio, this campground offers far more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub of activity and relaxation designed to create lasting memories for every visitor. From the moment you arrive, the welcoming atmosphere and dedication to guest satisfaction become immediately apparent.

This KOA Journey location is celebrated by local campers for its well-maintained grounds, extensive amenities, and the genuinely friendly staff who ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for diverse activities, or simply someone who enjoys watching barges glide by on the river, this campground provides a unique and engaging setting. It’s a place where the simple joys of camping are elevated by thoughtful touches and a focus on providing a full recreational experience, making it a highly recommended spot for Ohioans looking for their next outdoor adventure close to home.

The Franklin Furnace / Ohio River KOA Journey is conveniently located at 1224 Kenyon Rd, Franklin Furnace, OH 45629, USA. Its prime position in southern Ohio, right by the Ohio River, makes it easily accessible for many residents across the state, particularly those in the southern and central regions.

The campground is situated just off Route 52, a major thoroughfare that runs along the Ohio River. While access from Route 52 is generally easy, a common piece of feedback from new campers suggests that the sign pointing to the correct road (Kenyon Rd) could be larger or more prominent. However, once that turn is made, the access in and out of the campground is described as "easy," ensuring a smooth arrival and departure for all vehicle types, including large RVs.

For those traveling from Columbus, Cincinnati, or other major Ohio cities, the drive typically involves connecting to major interstates and then transitioning to routes like US-23 South or US-52 East, which lead directly to the Franklin Furnace area. Its riverside location not only provides scenic views but also places it within reach of other local attractions in southern Ohio, making it a strategic basecamp for exploring the region. The manageable drive and clear directions (once you spot the sign for Kenyon Rd) make it a highly convenient choice for Ohioans seeking a riverside escape.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground offers a variety of RV sites, including those with full hookups (electric, water, and sewer), accommodating various lengths and sizes of RVs. Many sites are spacious, providing ample room for campers.
• Tent Sites: Dedicated areas are available for traditional tent camping, often with water access and picnic tables.
• Cabin Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, the KOA Journey typically offers various types of cabins, ranging from basic camping cabins (no private bath/kitchen) to deluxe cabins (with private bath/kitchenette), providing a glamping experience.
• Fishing Pond: A popular amenity on-site is a fishing pond, providing easy and enjoyable angling opportunities for all ages.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is explicitly pet-friendly, welcoming furry family members (though specific rules and leash policies apply).
• Restroom Facilities: Clean and well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets are available.
• Shower Facilities: Accessible and clean showers are provided for camper convenience.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are typically available for guests.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store usually offers basic groceries, camping supplies, firewood, ice, KOA souvenirs, and perhaps some local goods.
• Recreational Activities: A wide array of activities designed for family fun, which can include:
  • Playground
  • Swimming Pool (seasonal)
  • Jumping Pillow (common at KOAs)
  • Bike Rentals
  • Planned Weekend Activities (especially during peak season)
• Propane & Firewood: Available for purchase on-site.
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi access may be available, typically in common areas or at individual sites, depending on the service level.

• Stunning Ohio River Views: A major highlight is the direct view and access to the Ohio River, allowing campers to watch barges and enjoy the peaceful flow of the water. This adds a unique charm to the camping experience.
• Friendly and Welcoming Staff: Consistently praised by reviewers, the staff are noted for being "very nice" and "very friendly," contributing significantly to a positive guest experience.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: The campground is described as "well maintained," indicating cleanliness and good upkeep of facilities and sites.
• Abundance of Activities for All Ages: The campground boasts a wide variety of activities, ensuring there's "lots to do for those staying there," making it ideal for families. The fishing pond is particularly popular.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The explicit pet-friendly policy is a significant advantage for campers who wish to bring their animal companions.
• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers highlight that the "areas around the campsites are big too," providing a sense of space and privacy for campers.
• Easy Access: Despite a minor note about the sign from Route 52, the overall accessibility "in and out of the campgrounds" is a significant convenience.
• Opportunity for Barge Watching: A unique and relaxing pastime, watching the barges travel up and down the Ohio River is a distinctive feature.
• Repeat Visitor Appeal: The strong positive experiences lead to a high likelihood of repeat stays, with one reviewer stating, "Will most definitely stay here again in the future."
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite the activities, the overall ambiance provides a peaceful setting for reading, relaxing, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Address: 1224 Kenyon Rd, Franklin Furnace, OH 45629, USA

Phone: (888) 562-0441

Mobile Phone: +1 888-562-0441

For reservations, current rates, availability, and specific inquiries about amenities or activities at Franklin Furnace / Ohio River KOA Journey, it is highly recommended to contact them directly via the provided phone numbers or visit their official KOA website. Online booking is typically available and often the most convenient method for securing your desired dates and site type. It’s always a good idea to call ahead, especially during peak season, to confirm availability and discuss any specific needs for your stay.

For Ohioans, the Franklin Furnace / Ohio River KOA Journey offers an ideal and highly suitable destination for a truly memorable camping experience right in our home state. Its strategic location along the Ohio River in southern Ohio makes it conveniently accessible for a wide swath of residents, allowing for easy weekend trips or extended vacations without the need for extensive travel. This ease of access, combined with its reputation as a "very large campground with lots to do," makes it a fantastic choice for families across Ohio looking for a comprehensive outdoor retreat.

What truly resonates with local campers are the features highlighted in reviews: the "very nice" and "friendly staff" who embody Ohio hospitality, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere from arrival to departure. The well-maintained grounds and spacious campsites offer comfort and a sense of relaxation that is much appreciated. For families, the "fantastic activities for the whole family" are a major draw, providing endless entertainment right on-site. The pet-friendly policy ensures that furry family members don't have to miss out on the fun, which is a significant plus for many Ohio pet owners. The unique opportunity to watch barges on the Ohio River, coupled with the peaceful fishing pond, offers distinct local charm and relaxing diversions. This KOA is not just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it’s a community-oriented, amenity-rich escape that consistently delivers a positive experience, leading many locals to declare they "will most definitely stay here again in the future." It’s an authentic Ohio riverside adventure waiting for you.