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Camper submitted image from Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State ParkView 24 Photos
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Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Accessible via the main road with clear signage, Sawmill Campground offers free primitive camping within Jesse Owens State Park. The campground requires no reservations but does need a permit from the AEP website, as this area remains part of the AEP ReCreation system rather than standard state park management. Campers can drive directly to their chosen spot across open terrain that includes grassy areas, pine groves, and sites near cattails.

The campground's covered bridge serves as both a landmark and focal point, with camping available on either side. Sites near the water provide access to shallow areas where children can explore, while elevated spots on the hill offer different perspectives. One camper noted the flexibility: "You can park on site or choose the beautiful area across the bridge." Cell phone coverage proves minimal, with Verizon occasionally getting signal while other carriers typically have none.

Vault toilets and drinking water serve the basic needs, though some campers prefer bringing their own water. The campground includes picnic tables and allows campfires and pets. Bug activity can be significant during certain seasons, with one visitor reporting heavy insect presence that cut their stay short. A camp host provides oversight, and the 14-day limit applies to all stays.

Campers seeking additional options can explore campgrounds near Cumberland or the nearby Big Muskie Campground — Jesse Owens State Park for a different setting.

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Map & DirectionsSawmill (Campground D) is located in Ohio near Cumberland

Detail location of campground
Private Campground

Coordinates

39.73649211600187 N
81.68949919857343 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/13/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/13/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Sawmill (Campground D)

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4.5

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4 Reviews

Free primitive camping with diverse site options and a scenic covered bridge. Bug issues reported by one visitor, basic vault facilities available. Easy access from Columbus with permit required.

Reviewed Oct. 21, 2021

Sawmill Campground AEP

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)

Sitecannot remember
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Gem S., October 21, 2021
  • our site
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Gem S., October 21, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jun. 26, 2021

First Time Here for one night

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.

Site11
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Tammy M., June 26, 2021
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Tammy M., June 26, 2021
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Tammy M., June 26, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 25, 2020

Diamond in the rough

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.

  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Karen K., September 25, 2020
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Karen K., September 25, 2020
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Karen K., September 25, 2020
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Aug. 16, 2020

Campsite with Covered Bridge (Nice surprise)

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.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Kenpocentaur K., August 16, 2020
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Kenpocentaur K., August 16, 2020
  • Review photo of Sawmill (Campground D) — Jesse Owens State Park by Kenpocentaur K., August 16, 2020
  • (10) View All
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Jesse Owens State Park campground?

Sawmill (Campground D) at Jesse Owens State Park offers primitive camping with basic amenities. The campground features outhouse-style restrooms and spacious sites where you can park directly on your chosen spot or select an area across the covered bridge. No reservations are required - simply select an open spot upon arrival and complete the registration process. The campground is free to use with a 14-day stay limit. Sites are nicely maintained and offer beautiful natural surroundings.

Where is Jesse Owens State Park located and how do I get there?

Jesse Owens State Park is located near the towns of Zanesville and Cumberland in Ohio, close to Ohio's famed Wilds. The park is easily visible from the main road with clear signage directing you to the campground area. Be cautious when using GPS navigation as some addresses may lead you astray. Look for the campground sign from the main road to ensure you find the correct entrance. The area is part of the AEP ReCreation lands and features the distinctive Sawmill (Campground D) section.

Is there a trail map available for Jesse Owens State Park?

Official trail maps for Jesse Owens State Park should be available through the park office or visitor center. The park features natural areas to explore, including views of lakes and wildlife like butterflies. Due to the remote nature of the area and limited cell reception, it's advisable to obtain physical maps before venturing onto trails. Visitors can inquire about current trail conditions and map availability with the campground host or park management upon arrival.

Is fishing allowed at Jesse Owens State Park and what species can be caught?

Fishing is allowed at Jesse Owens State Park, which features lakes as part of the former AEP ReCreation lands. While specific fish species aren't detailed, the park's lakes provide fishing opportunities typical of Ohio's inland waters. The area around Zanesville and Cumberland is known for various fishing spots. For the most current fishing regulations and information about species, check with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources or inquire with park staff upon arrival.

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