Lake Hope State Park and surrounding areas in southeastern Ohio feature varied terrain across the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Yurt camping options near Albany, Ohio provide access to over 50 miles of hiking trails through deciduous forest with significant oak and hickory stands.
What to do
Kayaking at Strouds Run: Rent watercraft at the lake for affordable recreation. "In mid April 2023 I arrived late afternoon and there were TONS of spots available. Happy with the spot I picked. There was some noise from other campsites, but overall not terrible. Strouds is an amazing park with incredible trails! Bathrooms were clean," notes Anna S. at Strouds Run State Park Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "If you're lucky and have no clouds, there is virtually no light pollution and you can see the Milky Way," writes Jonathan W. about Tar Hollow State Park Campground.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Several parks offer shoreline fishing access. "Fishing is hit and miss," reports Leon H. about Strouds Run, while Robert R. from Lake Hope warns, "Watch out for the FOG on the lake at night! It gets so bad you can't see past the end of your boat!"
Nature programs: Seasonal ranger-led activities provide educational opportunities. "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. They pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!" shares Chris C. about Lake Hope State Park.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many sites offer privacy away from crowds. "At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways rather if it's by tent (the way I prefer) or by camper. It's a very nice place to have some family fun," Jonathan W. notes about Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Yurt accommodations: Several campgrounds near Albany offer yurt camping options with solid floors and proper beds. "Top O' The Caves has a thriving Timber Rattlesnake population. Watch your steps," warns Renée C. about Top O' The Caves Campground, where yurts provide an elevated camping experience.
Affordable boat rentals: Multiple lakes offer reasonable rates for water recreation. "Lake Hope provided exceptional water recreation with kayak rentals available for just $10 per hour," mentions one visitor, while Lucille W. notes about Strouds Run: "Strouds is a great place to rent a paddle board, kayak, canoe, or pontoon."
Winter camping options: Some parks remain open year-round for off-season experiences. "We actually stayed at the lodge and it was lovely. We would hike around during the day and swim inside as it was before spring. Lots of great trails," reports Kenpocentaur K. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. "There is no cell service. Enjoy the outdoors! You are off the grid!" explains Sydney about Tar Hollow State Park.
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality ranges significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms are pit latrines. Normally, I wouldn't be too concerned about this (you're camping! it's cool to rough it a bit!) However…these are some of the dirtiest I've experienced," notes Sydney about Tar Hollow.
Site terrain challenges: Many campsites feature uneven ground that requires careful setup. "Camp sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4" off ground to get close to level. Site around is sloped in all directions," reports Daniel about Lake Hope.
Seasonal operating hours: Some facilities have limited availability. "This is an extremely primitive place that is not run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. It is run by the same woman who runs the boat rentals at several other state parks in SE Ohio," explains Megan M. about Strouds Run.
Tips for camping with families
Jump pad activities: Some campgrounds offer inflatable play areas. "There is a nice sized sand ground play set with swings and 2 slides, an air pillow (blob) putt putt, a trail to the lake, a dog run, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room and very pleasant staff," says Mitchell C. about Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Guided nature programs enhance family experiences. "We have stayed here a couple of times in a tent and a class a motor home. The campground is pretty secluded but beautiful rolling hills," shares Marshall P. about Lake Hope.
Mini-golf access: Some campgrounds offer affordable family activities. "Older campgrounds with a lot of things to do. Put put golf and a fun small arcade, although dated, were great for down times inbetween hikes," explains Jennifer R. about Top O' The Caves.
Lake beaches: Several parks feature swimming areas with beach access. "There is a nice little pool, but it wasn't open for the season yet. The shower houses were immaculate," notes Vicki H. about Hocking Hills KOA Holiday.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require significant adjustment. "We stayed in the camper cabin, which is just a very basic shed with a bed, bunk beds, air conditioning and heat. We stayed there because it was July and I wanted A/C and electricity," explains Megan M. about Forked Run.
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer only basic services. "Sites are only rented in person once you arrive, they have clear instructions at the entrance. Sites were nice and level, but a bit on the smaller side," reports Isaac K. about Tar Hollow.
Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township, so its completely out of their ability to make improvements," warns Vicki H. about Hocking Hills KOA.
Off-season availability: Several parks offer extended camping seasons. "In mid April 2023 I arrived late afternoon and there were TONS of spots available," notes Anna S. about Strouds Run.
