Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park, near McConnelsville, Ohio, is a primitive campground that offers a unique experience with its charming covered bridge and spacious sites. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the area, making it a great spot for families and friends to gather around a campfire.

The campground features picnic tables and allows fires, perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars. Many campers have noted the peaceful atmosphere, with one reviewer highlighting the “beautiful country views” and the opportunity to introduce kids to fishing in nearby waters.

While amenities are basic, the lack of fees and the 14-day stay limit make it an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Just keep in mind that cell reception is spotty, so it’s a great chance to unplug and enjoy nature. If you’re up for a little adventure, check out the nearby Miners Memorial or take a tour at the Wilds for a taste of local history and wildlife.

Known as Campground D, Sawmill camping area is located at the east end of the park at 10390 N. State Route 83 in McConnelsville. The sites are primitive (no water, no electric, no pad) and each has a picnic table . The campground offers a latrine and a covered bridge access to one of the sites. These sites are open seasonally from April 1 to mid-December.

Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park

Looking for the best campgrounds near Cumberland, OH? Cumberland is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Cumberland

The Best Camping Near Cumberland, Ohio

This is an easy find but be careful as the address can lead you astray. It is easy to see from the main road as they have a good sign up to alert you to the campground.  This was one of our favorite AEP ReCreation campgrounds. It has it's own covered bridge. How special is that:) 

  

I also liked this campsite as you could be by the cattails, grassy area, pine tree area, on a small island behind the covered bridge. Plenty of shallow water for the kids to play in if they wanted to go exploring. 

  

Cell phone signals are almost a non thing out here. I did get a signal at times on my Verizon phone. Any other carrier you were out of luck. There is no camp store here but there is a camp host.  This is not part of the Jesse Owens purchase (new Ohio State Park) so this should continue to be free for a long time as part of the AEP ReCreation camp sites. You will want to print a permit from the AEP website and have it ready just in case. https://www.aep.com/recreation/areas/recreationland

  

Plenty of space here and the best thing is that the camping here is free. It is an easy drive from Columbus. It is also fairly close to the Wilds.

 https://thewilds.columbuszoo.org/  AEP actually gave the Wilds the land (Columbus Zoo).  For a 2.5 hour tour it is $30.00 for nonmembers. They will also add on a $1.00 fee for conservation for each ticket sold as well. Don't forget that parking is $6.00 unless you are a member of the zoo which means it is free then.  They are asking folks to show up 30 minutes early before their tour (reservations required these days) and I suspect that is new due to COVID-19.

  

Vault toilets and it wouldn't be ADA accessible. They have water here but I bring my own water. 

  

Lots to do if you look and do your research in advance.  It isn't like a State park but that really is part of the charm.

Campsite with Covered Bridge (Nice surprise) 

Just outside the towns of Zanesville and Cumberland where you can find Ohio's famed Wilds there's heat opportunity for free camping. No reservations needed, check out different regions and pick a spot that is open and tugs at your heart. Enjoy views of lakes, butterflies and take the opportunity to introduce your kids to fishing if you haven't done that yet. Plenty of opportunity to find a perfect hammock spot or a cozy corner for just you and a plus one or get some friends together and enjoy the company and fire together... Roll up your car windows or raccoons will take advantage of any acorns or hot chocolate packets in your car.  Travel to nearby Mcconnellville and get some small town flavor and sights. 
Miners memorial is nearby. Go check out Big Muskie Bucket and learn a bit about Coal and power. 

Diamond in the rough

I was excited to stay at a new location. Found my way there and selected an open spot directly across from the bridge. That spot was taken, appeared to be a family living on the bridge. Half of it was filled with their belongings. Looked like other areas, up on the hill, were also set up as home.

Set up my area, noticed there were a lot of bugs. Seriously a lot of them. After about 6 hours unfortunately I couldn’t handle them anymore, packed up and left. It’s possible A, B, and C have fewer bugs. May drive through those areas at a future time. Would not stay at D again.


First Time Here for one night

Nicely maintained primitive campground  with outhouse style restroom. Beautiful covered bridge. Nice large sites to choose. You can park on site or choose the beautiful area across the bridge. Kind hostess. Registration required. No fee/14 day limit. Cell reception is nil unless you drive to the AEP tower. (Mile down the main road)

Photos of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park

Real photos from real campers