Zaleski State Forest offers 26 miles of bridle trails and designated horse camping areas near Albany, Ohio. The forest encompasses over 28,000 acres of rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 675 to 1,080 feet. Trail access points are scattered throughout the area, with the main equestrian campground located off State Route 278 approximately 20 miles southwest of Albany.
What to do
Trail riding at Lake Vesuvius: The trails surrounding Lake Vesuvius offer diverse terrain for riders looking to explore southeast Ohio's forests. "The hiking trails are scenic and pretty and the lake while not overly big, is clean and great for swimming (there's a beach), kayaking, and fishing," notes a visitor to Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius.
Backpacking with views: The trail systems connect various landscapes from ridges to valleys. "There are a great deal of interesting rock formations to check out as well as a few good overlook areas. I highly recommend taking the short connector trail on the south loop to cut over to the Moonville Rail Trail," writes a camper at Zaleski State Forest.
Visit historic sites: The region contains remnants of Ohio's iron-producing past. "Hope furnace is just outside the campground and next to the first 'put-in' for the lake. As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," reports a visitor to Lake Hope State Park.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campgrounds provide secluded spaces away from crowds. "The campsites are pretty open, so if you did have neighbors...you'd know it. We'd usually snatch up site 98 or 99...or both. No one would usually go that deep into the park. It was private...pit latrine nearby...flat and airy," shares one camper at Lake Hope State Park.
Horse-friendly facilities: The region has dedicated horse camps with proper facilities. "The new owners of the Palmerosa Campground have put a lot of time and money into this campground! Almost everything has been tore down and rebuilt. The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built! They are amazing and plenty if room for larger horses," states a reviewer from Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground.
Trail connectivity: The network of trails allows for extended rides without trailering. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. And there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various tips accordingly," notes a backpacker who visited Zaleski State Forest.
What you should know
Water availability: Water sources are seasonal and may require treatment. "Water is available at 3 backpack camping areas (Points D, I & P)," points out a hiker at Zaleski State Forest.
Campground facilities vary: Some locations have minimal services, especially during off-season. "Winter Visit: We stopped here on Thanksgiving on our way South. Self paying, off season was $15. But the restrooms were closed," reports a camper at Strouds Run State Park.
Terrain challenges: The trails include significant elevation changes. "I'm a backpacker and this was tough. There is clear trails and a lot of rocks to climb on top of. The trial was about 19 miles and was definitely worth it because of the views," writes a visitor to Zaleski State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some areas provide easier access for those with children. "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. Very nice beach and swimming area. Hiking and horse back riding trails," shares a visitor from Lake Hope State Park.
Plan for varied activities: Multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "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!" notes a visitor describing a unique program at Lake Hope.
Consider location of facilities: Bath facilities may be distant from some sites. "Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! All in all we had a blast and a good laugh about our trek with all our stuff!!" cautions a visitor to Hocking Hills State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection is crucial: Terrain can make leveling difficult. "Camp sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4" off grond to get close to level. Site around is sloped in all directions," warns a camper from Lake Hope State Park.
Water pressure concerns: Utility hookups may have issues. "Beautiful place to camp. Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others. We stayed at site 6 which wasn't too difficult to park but the water pressure was extremely high," reports an RVer at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius.
Limited full-hookup options: Many equestrian camping sites near Albany have limited utilities. "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. While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain," shares a visitor to Lake Hope.
