RVing in the Snow: What We Learned During a Freezing Night at Salt Fork State Park

“A journey is like marriage. The certain way to be wrong is to think you control it.” – John Steinbeck

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First Taste of Winter Camping at Salt Fork State Park

Dash Cam photo passing the mountains of west of DC

It had been a long day behind the wheel. We were heading home to Indiana from Washington, D.C., after nearly six hours on the road. It was mid-November, and with every mile westward, the temperature seemed to drop another degree. By the time we crossed into Ohio on Interstate 70, it was obvious that snow was in our future.

Chasing a Campsite Before the Storm

Great sites at Salt Fork SP (OH)

Our destination for the night was Salt Fork State Park near Cambridge in southeastern Ohio. Salt Fork is one of the gems in the Ohio State Parks system, and we were eager to add it to our growing list of noteworthy Ohio campgrounds.

Once inside the park, however, finding the campground became an adventure of its own. Snow was blowing almost horizontally across the roadway, making signs difficult to read. At one point, Sue had to step out into the storm and brush snow off a sign just to confirm we were headed in the right direction. We were in for a lesson in winter camping at Salt Fork State Park.

Learning About Cold Weather Camping

While many RVers regularly camp in deep snow and sub-freezing temperatures, this was our first real cold-weather camping experience. As rookie winter campers, we knew enough to be cautious but not enough to be completely confident.

Researching winter RVing while driving wasn't exactly practical, so I enlisted the help of my son-in-law, a fellow RVer. He searched online and gathered information about overnight camping in freezing temperatures. Most sources suggested that one night at around 30 degrees shouldn't create major problems, but we decided to prepare as if conditions would be colder and last longer.

Cold Weather Note: This article describes what worked for us during an overnight stay around 30°F. RVs vary widely in their cold-weather capabilities, so always consult your owner's manual and manufacturer recommendations before using heaters or other freeze-prevention methods.

Taking No Chances

Sleet and snow kept us inside and the Wonder kept us warm

Fortunately, I had packed a small ceramic cube heater in anticipation of colder weather. Once we were set up, I positioned it beneath the RV, sheltered from the falling snow but near the water lines and holding tanks. It was placed far enough away to avoid overheating any components while still providing a pocket of warm air to help prevent freezing.

I also disconnected the campground water supply and drained the hose for the night. Normally, we switch our instant water heater to economy mode before bed to reduce cycling and noise. That evening, however, we left it in constant mode so it would continue generating heat and circulating warmth through the system.

Inside the coach, we stayed comfortable. The propane furnace handled most of the work, although winter pajamas and stocking caps added an extra layer of insurance against the chill.

Morning after a cold night at Salt Fork SP (OH)

A Cold Night, A Warm RV

The sleet and snow kept us indoors for much of the evening, but our little Wonder provided a warm and cozy refuge from the weather outside. As first-time winter campers, we went to bed wondering what surprises the morning might bring.

Thankfully, everything worked exactly as planned.

Lessons for Next Time

The experience taught me a few things. Before our next cold-weather outing, I'd like to pick up a 60-watt trouble light that can be placed closer to the RV's utility compartment. I also wish the ceramic heater had included a thermostat, but none were available locally when I purchased it. That's something I'll be looking for before our next winter adventure.

We're already looking forward to returning when the sun is shining and the scenery is easier to appreciate. As longtime fans of Ohio State Parks, we're certain Salt Fork will be one of many return visits and maybe we'll see you there as we continue traveling Along the Pooka Trail.

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🚐 Pooka Trail Notes

📍 Location: Salt Fork State Park, Cambridge, Ohio

🚐 RV Site Quality: Paved, level sites with generous grassy areas between campsites.

❄️ Weather During Our Stay: Snow, sleet, and temperatures near the freezing mark.

🔥 Cold Weather Lessons Learned:

• Disconnect and drain water hoses overnight when freezing temperatures are expected.

• Monitor vulnerable plumbing and utility areas.

• Have a backup heating strategy for exposed utility compartments.

• Winter sleepwear can make overnight temperatures much more comfortable.

• Cold-weather preparation is easier when done before you need it.

🏕️ What We Liked:

• Large campground with roomy sites.

• Beautiful natural setting.

• Easy access from Interstate 70.

• Part of Ohio's excellent state park system.

• Attractive lake and recreational opportunities.

⚠️ What We'd Do Differently Next Time:

• Bring a thermostatically controlled utility heater.

• Pack additional cold-weather camping supplies.

• Allow extra time for setup during snow or sleet.

⭐ Would We Return? Absolutely. While our visit was brief and wintry, Salt Fork left us wanting to come back during warmer weather to fully enjoy the lake, trails, and park amenities.

Pooka Trail Rating: 🦌🦌🦌🦌½ (4.5/5 Deer Tracks) A memorable first winter camping experience and another fine example of why we enjoy exploring Ohio State Parks.

Best For: RV travelers crossing Ohio on I-70, weekend campers, anglers, boaters, and anyone looking for a spacious state park campground with year-round appeal.