New River Gorge National Park is a spectacular natural wonder near Athens with many exciting activities to engage in. Its most recognizable landmark is the New River Gorge Bridge, which spans 3,030 feet across the gorge and boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This impressive feat of engineering is also the longest single-span arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere and is a true sight to behold. The New River offers various recreational activities like fishing, swimming, and whitewater rafting. Campers can also take advantage of the numerous hiking trails that wind through the park, providing access to stunning vistas and natural wonders, like waterfalls, rock formations, and scenic overlooks. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a hidden gem near Athens that RVers should explore in a Class A or Class C motorhome. The picturesque Brandywine Falls stands out as an impressive waterfall that cascades into a pool below. You will find plenty of activities to enjoy, such as canoeing and kayaking on the Cuyahoga River, cycling on the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings. The park also has unique wildlife species like bald eagles, beavers, and river otters. The park has a vast network of hiking trails, like Ledges Trail, Brandywine Falls Trail, and Buckeye Trail, which range from short, easy hikes to challenging. They give breathtaking views of natural beauty, including rolling hills, waterfalls, and dense forests. Drive from Athens to Point Pelee National Park to explore its diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, winding wetlands, and sandy beaches. At its tip lies the iconic landmark, the Point Pelee Lighthouse, built in 1902. This lighthouse has been a beacon for mariners for over a century and offers a stunning view of Lake Erie and the surrounding park. Explore spots like the Marsh Boardwalk, which takes you through the heart of a beautiful wetland habitat. You can learn all about the park's flora, fauna, and fascinating cultural history at the visitor center.

Strouds Run State Park covers about 2,606 acres and is seven miles from Athens. RVers will be awed by the park's beautiful scenery, including towering trees and 161-acre scenic Dow Lake. This waterbody is perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards from the park's marina to explore it. Renters will also love the park's picnic areas, which offer a perfect place to relax, eat, and enjoy nature. Visit the nature center with interactive exhibits and educational displays that provide insight into the park's flora and fauna. Drive in your toy hauler or popup camper for half an hour from Athens to explore Burr Oak State Park. It encompasses over 2,500 acres of lush forested hills, valleys and a 664-acre Burr Oak Lake that extends for five miles. The lake is famous for fishing, with various species, including bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. The park also has a marina where visitors can rent boats, pontoons, and kayaks to explore the lake. Hike the Burr Oak Nature Trail starting at the campground and winding through the surrounding forest. While on the trail, you will observe the local wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, and various species of birds. Just 20 miles from Athens, Lake Hope State Park is a perfect destination with countless amenities and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the 120-acre freshwater lake that provides a serene setting for swimming, boating, and fishing. The Zaleski State Forest Backpack Trail traverses the park and is an admired option for overnight hikers. RVers will appreciate the spacious campsites available at Lake Hope State Park, which can accommodate a variety of RV sizes.

You will drive 61 miles west with an RV Rental from Athens, Ohio, to Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, filled with archeology, history, and Native American culture. The park covers over 2,000 acres and includes several mounds and earthworks left behind by the Hopewell culture. Discover the Great Circle Earthworks, which spans 1,200 feet in diameter and was likely used for ceremonial and social gatherings. Visitors can walk around the inside of the circle and imagine what it might have been like to be there over 2,000 years ago. Visit the Mound City Group, used as a burial site and thought to contain the remains of influential members of the Hopewell culture. Gauley River National Recreation Area covers 25 miles of the Gauley River, which serves as a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Considered one of the best outdoor destinations in the eastern United States, the area boasts Class III-V whitewater rapids compared to the famous Colorado River. Adventure seekers can enjoy world-class kayaking, rafting, and fishing while taking in the stunning scenery of the New River Gorge. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is a two-hour drive in your fifth-wheel trailer from Athens. This historical monument commemorates Lieutenant Colonel Charles Young, the third African American to graduate from West Point. He became the first African American national park superintendent and the first to become a colonel in the U.S. Army. You can take a guided tour to learn about the life of Charles Young, explore the exhibits and artifacts, or walk the hiking trails that lead to the cabin where he spent his last years.

One of the best RV parks near Athens is Happy Hills Family Campground, which has sites with full hookups and is both back-in and pull-through enabled. It is pet-friendly and has showers and a pool. You can enjoy one of the 135 sites at Carthage Gap RV Park, which has daily rates of $35. These sites have full hookups and excellent cell reception. Hocking Hills/Logan KOA is another beautiful campground with 92 sites with full hookups. They offer AAA discounts, and their daily rate is $58.