AEP Miners Memorial Park Boondocking In McConnelsville, OH
Essential Guide for Campers
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| CR 78 McConnelsville, OH GPS: 39.698635, -81.730959 |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Private – Utility Company (Official) Free Site – Free Permit Required This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
AEP Miners Memorial Park Boondocking: One of AEP’s Recreational Lands. A recreational User’s permit required. Scenic overlook. A shelter pavilion, restrooms.
About This Location
Looking for a quiet spot to camp without shelling out fees? AEP Miners Memorial Park boondocking area in McConnelsville, Ohio, is one of those hidden gems for boondocking.
This private recreational land gives you free camping with a permit, so you can soak up nature and the area’s history at no cost. It’s managed by a utility company, which is a bit unusual, and you get a unique experience right in southeastern Ohio.
At AEP Miners Memorial Park boondocking area, there’s a chance to check out the legacy of coal mining, including the famous Big Muskie Bucket. That thing’s massive—one of the largest mining machines ever built.
It’s not just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; there’s some real history here if you’re into that sort of thing.
Staying here puts you close to some pretty scenic views along State Route 78. It’s quiet, definitely not your typical busy campground vibe.
If you’re after a simple, free place to camp in Ohio and want a peek into the state’s mining heritage, this spot’s worth a look.
AEP Miners Memorial Park Boondocking In McConnelsville, OH
AEP Miners Memorial Park boondocking area in McConnelsville offers a pretty unique boondocking experience. It’s part of the bigger AEP ReCreation Land, which sprawls over 34,000 acres.
The land used to be strip-mined but has since been restored for outdoor use. You won’t find hookups or fancy amenities here.
Boondocking means you’ll rely on your own water, power, and waste setup. There’s plenty of space to park your RV or camper, all surrounded by nature.
You’ve got access to hiking trails and fishing spots, plus some quiet corners if you just want to chill. AEP Miners Memorial Park boondocking area is nearby, a nod to the area’s mining roots.
Cell signal’s not great, so if you need to stay connected, plan ahead. The nearest gas and grocery options are about half an hour away in town.
| What to Bring | Notes |
|---|---|
| Fresh water | No water hookups available |
| Portable power source | Solar panels or generators help |
| Waste storage | Plan for proper disposal |
| Food and supplies | Nearest stores are 30 minutes out |
Directions
To get to AEP Miners Memorial Park Boondocking in McConnelsville, Ohio, start by finding McConnelsville on your map. The park sits near County Road 78, just south of town.
Coming in from State Route 60, make your way toward downtown McConnelsville. Then follow signs or your GPS toward County Road 78.
Plug in these GPS coordinates for the exact spot:
39.698635, -81.730959
Once you’re on County Road 78, keep an eye out for signs for AEP’s Recreation Land. The boondocking area’s managed by the utility company, so there should be official markers.
Most vehicles can get in just fine, but some spots have uneven or gravel roads. Take it slow, especially if it’s been raining.
If you’re using a map app, searching for “AEP Miners Memorial Park” or “AEP Recreation Land McConnelsville” should get you there. It pops up on Google Maps and MapQuest.
Cell service can be spotty in the park, so maybe bring a paper map just in case. Better safe than lost.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
You can reach AEP Miners Memorial Park boondocking area by heading down County Road 78, not far from McConnelsville, Ohio. It’s tucked just off State Route 78, so GPS coordinates 39.698635, -81.730959 will get you there without much fuss.
Most cars, trucks, and RVs can make it in, though it’s worth mentioning that the terrain gets a bit uneven in spots. If you’re driving something bigger, just take it slow and keep an eye out for soft patches or tight corners.
Camping here requires a recreational user’s permit from American Electric Power. That permit covers camping and most outdoor activities on the property.
Pricing is usually low or sometimes even free, but you do need to sort out the permit before you show up. The American Electric Power Recreation Department in McConnelsville handles all the details—it’s worth double-checking with them about current costs and any quirks in the rules.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | CR 78 near McConnelsville |
| Permit Required | Yes, from AEP ReCreation Dept |
| Permit Cost | Low or free (confirm with AEP) |
| Suitable Vehicles | Cars, trucks, RVs |
| Terrain | Some uneven areas |
Make sure your permit is visible at your site. And, well, following the park rules just makes life easier for everyone.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water Pets Welcome Restrooms |
RV Parking Tent Camping Fishing Hiking Hunting Wildlife Viewing |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace
State Specific Information Links
Ohio Park Service
Ohio Fish and Wildlife