Cabin options near Amanda, Ohio range from rustic to fully-equipped accommodations throughout the Hocking Hills region. Located 30 miles southeast of Columbus, this area features rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 660-1,300 feet. The foothills of the Appalachian Mountains create varied microclimates where summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s while winter months drop to below freezing.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers numerous trail connections directly from the camping area. "Great hiking trails. Very busy on holiday weekends so I think it is best to go when that is not the case or even through the week," notes one visitor. The campground provides direct access to Old Man's Cave via an easy walk.
Kayaking opportunities: Hocking Hills Canoe Livery provides river access for water activities. "Nice place to rent or bring your own boats. Staff is great and they have cabins available. Nice showers and restrooms," mentions a camper. Rental rates run approximately $45 per boat for special evening tours.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas for cooling off. At Jackson Lake Park, "The little lake was so much fun. My children were upset we had to leave early due to the storm coming in," according to a recent visitor. Most swimming areas are operational between Memorial Day and Labor Day, weather permitting.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campbell Cove Camping offers premium lakeside cabin locations. A camper notes, "We stayed at site 61 and the lake view is perfect. Bring your hammock because there are plenty of trees!" These waterfront sites typically book months in advance during peak season.
Clean facilities: Modern restroom buildings receive positive comments at multiple campgrounds. At Hocking Hills KOA Holiday, "Bathrooms were excellent individually separated rooms with showers and toilets. We were escorted to our site upon arrival," shares one reviewer. Most cabin accommodations require a short walk to these central facilities.
WiFi availability: While cell service varies throughout the region, some campgrounds provide reliable internet access. "Very poor Verizon coverage but the Wi-Fi on site worked fine," mentions a KOA visitor. Expect stronger signals near campground offices and weaker connectivity in more remote cabin areas.
What you should know
Booking requirements: Advance reservations are essential for cabin rentals, especially during peak seasons. At At Boulders Edge Cabin and Tipi Retreat, a visitor shares, "We waited awhile to be able to get in here. It was awesome. Tipis are very cool and the outdoor shower is my favorite part." Booking windows typically open 6-12 months ahead.
Cabin condition variations: Maintenance and cleanliness standards vary significantly between properties. A Top O' The Caves visitor reported, "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have reported water issues. At Tar Hollow State Park, one camper advised, "There is water (drinking fountain and spigot) and his/hers pit toilets with antibacterial soap." Consider bringing drinking water if staying at properties with well systems.
Tips for camping with families
Look for entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond standard amenities. At Geneva Hills Camp and Event Center, "Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren't any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp. It was a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp."
Consider proximity to bathrooms: Cabin locations relative to restroom facilities matter for families with young children. At Tar Hollow State Park, a visitor observed, "Sites 87 & 88 are a bit more secluded but closer to bathroom so may have more foot traffic when busier."
Pack extra supplies: Cabin accommodations typically provide minimal furnishings. A Campbell Cove visitor recommended, "We stayed in one of the rustic cabins. With other family members bringing their RVs. The bathroom facilities were some of the nicest and cleanest we've experienced."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds present difficulties for larger vehicles. At Top O' The Caves, a reviewer cautioned, "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."
Hookup variations: Full-service hookups aren't universal at all cabin sites. "We appreciated the full hook-ups and pull through site. The staff came through every morning to pick up the trash. But, the water hook ups were accessible through a hole/pipe and we had to 'fish' down to connect our hose," noted a Jackson Lake Park visitor.
Consider leveling needs: Many sites throughout the region require leveling equipment. At Hocking Hills KOA Holiday, a camper shared, "The sites were nice and wide but not all level but it's an area that has lots of hills."
