Tent camping opportunities near Ashville, Ohio include several established campgrounds with primitive sites suitable for wilderness enthusiasts. Scioto Grove Metro Park offers backpacking tent sites along a trail system that follows the Scioto River, while Zaleski State Forest provides free tent-only camping with hiking access in a more remote woodland setting.
Most tent campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities but maintain a rustic camping experience. Scioto Grove's backpacking sites include tent pads and fire rings with provided firewood, though campers should note these sites are only available on weekends during certain seasons. Access to these areas requires hiking in with gear, as no vehicle access is permitted beyond designated parking areas. Zaleski State Forest offers primitive tent camping with vault toilets but limited other facilities. As one camper noted, "Zaleski has a few backpacking camp sites in the forest. Be mindful that the first one is rather close and we kept going. The other camp sites are a haul."
Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for hiking adventures or to test backpacking setups before longer expeditions. Scioto Grove provides an accessible option for newer backpackers, with five reservable sites spaced along the river trail offering varying degrees of privacy. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit." Sites at Zaleski generally offer more seclusion but require better navigation skills and preparation for muddy conditions after rainfall. For those seeking first-time backpacking experiences, these locations provide well-maintained trails with established camping areas that balance wilderness immersion with relative proximity to services.
"Free reserve ahead weekend backpacking campsites. All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided."
"Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear."
"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."
from $35 - $600 / night
"There's a great loop hike in Zaleski State Forest. High quality trees, nice little hills, cool rock formations. Fine campground for tent-camping (my preferred camping method)."
"Campsites fill up quickly & areas will be shared. Not all have fire rings. Camp 2 is very popular since it is the halfway point(ish) on the trail. Camp 1 is only a couple miles into the loop."
from $12 / night
from $50 - $225 / night
"Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
from $30 - $100 / night
"Extremely private primitive camping surrounded by Wayne National Forest and steps from the Baileys Trail System. Fire pit, picnic table and handmade hammock supplied for comfort and convenience."
"Excellent campground that is tucked out of the way. You have to walk to the site, up a steep hill, but it is very private and quiet. The bathrooms are down the hill too, but very clean and private."
from $40 - $125 / night
"I stayed there Aug 2024 and as of that date the rustic tent camping was $20. "
"We'd like to welcome Ed and Michelle to our platform. This prime location is 15 minutes from the National Park. On site drinking water and firewood available."
from $15 - $125 / night
RangerAlways great time here. The upper part has more wooden areas then the lower part. But those spot are close to the lake. They a great playground. They have a big camp store with a putt putt, big lake we’re boating, fishing and kayaking. Multiple shower houses very clean kept up. Nice campground to ride bikes around.
ScoutRight close to Columbus this campground is a staple for locals trying to just get away for the weekend. There is an amphitheater, a camper’s beach, nature center, and more all within the campground. Alum creek state park is a larger facility surrounding the campground with a public beach, walking paths, mountain bike trails, archery range, hunting areas, boat marina and more. The public beach is rather gravelly but has nice shower houses and grills available. We are attending during fall fest where they put on many activities for the campers and it is a lot of fun. You have to reserve 6 months in advance to be able to get in on fall fest unless there is a last minute cancellation. Our site is relatively flat parking, we didn’t need to level the rig. It did rain the morning we got here and the area around the fire pit was a bit muddy. The view out the back of this camp site is nice and wooded, you’re not looking at your neighbors out the back window. The sides you can definitely see each other but it’s still wooded and secluded enough between the sites here.
RangerWe managed to get several sites near each other for 6-7 families and we had a blast. Near bathrooms, quiet, and within walking distance of the kayak launch.
RangerGreat campground. My favorite is each loop has their own shower house! Nice playgrounds for kids. Nice private sites. Lots of woods and trails. Good lake for boating fishing and kayaking. Park is very clean and well maintained. They have a kids fishing pond! It’s also great for biking.
GuideWe used Site 53, which is a pull thru. The site was spacious and level. The fire pit location is across a tiny stream; we enjoyed a campfire in the woods! There were no loud folks. The loudest thing we heard was the occasional bark of a dog (which we didn't mind).
The restrooms were new and extremely clean. The staff at the camp store was friendly.
There are plenty of places and opportunities to enjoy Pine Lake: you can sit on a bench or rent a canoe.
We'd love to return to Tar Hollow when the fall foliage is beautiful.
RangerThis campground is located near major roads and within a quick trip to Hocking Hills State Park. Tents spots are located near the lake and provide pine tree shaded cover. Bathrooms are private and very clean!
TravelerTight
RangerThis one is the closest to home! We love it here. Great Lake/reservoir for boating, kayaking swimming and fishing. Two Nice shower houses. Playground. Camp store! Updated fhu sites. Has a good size marina with Store in nature Center. Park is great for riding bikes.
TravelerThis is a small campground. Typical state park sites--you will have neighbors/see and hear other people. There is a non-electric section, which I like for tent camping. The electric section is all RV's, this non-electric section is all tents and a little quieter, except if you're near the playground. Campsites all have picnic tables and fire rings, and are decently sized. All pretty flat and mostly wooded/part shade.
Tent camping near Ashville, Ohio ranges from free wilderness backpacking sites to established campgrounds with amenities. Located in central Ohio where glacial plains begin transitioning to Appalachian foothills, the region offers diverse terrain with elevation changes between 700-1100 feet. Late summer brings temperatures averaging 80-85°F during day and 60-65°F at night, creating ideal conditions for overnight outdoor adventures.
Explore nearby trail systems: At Zaleski State Forest, backpackers can take advantage of well-marked trails with multiple loop options. "The trail is diverse and great for beginners and experienced hikers. The campsites have privies, spigots for water, and a lot of different sites for different sized groups. Its a popular trail for a reason!" Zaleski offers excellent day hiking with "beautiful rock outcroppings" along the routes.
Visit historic sites: The Old Stone Church Trailhead provides access to interesting landmarks. "Well marked. Parking can be on side of road or down below where campsites are," notes one camper. The area connects to the Moonville Rail Trail where hikers can explore the historic Moonville Tunnel, a remnant of the region's mining past.
Test backpacking gear: Scioto Grove Metro Park offers accessible backpacking sites perfect for equipment testing. "Free reserve ahead weekend backpacking campsites. All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided. Some have log seating and some do not." The relatively short trail system makes it ideal for beginners or those wanting to test gear before longer expeditions.
Try mountain biking: Some campgrounds provide direct access to mountain biking trails. Benton's on the Baileys is "near the Baileys Bike System" and offers "extremely private primitive camping surrounded by Wayne National Forest and steps from the Baileys Trail System."
Short but challenging terrain: The region offers good practice for backpackers without requiring extensive time commitments. "I only came here for a 2 day backpacking trip and it was kind of hard. 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."
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report diverse wildlife sightings throughout the area. At Zaleski State Forest, one reviewer noted, "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018."
Private camping spots: Tent campers appreciate the secluded nature of many sites. "Excellent campground that is tucked out of the way. You have to walk to the site, up a steep hill, but it is very private and quiet. The bathrooms are down the hill too, but very clean and private." Many locations offer good spacing between tent sites for added privacy.
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, many campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Pop's Place Camping, "The porta john and shower were very clean. The shower uses an on demand water heater." This attention to cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews across multiple campgrounds.
Water availability varies: While some campgrounds provide potable water, others have limited or seasonal water access. "Backpacked there for 3 days/2 nights. Good trail and campsites had water, but it can get a little humid and buggy there." Campers should research water conditions before arrival.
Limited weekend availability: Some camping areas restrict overnight stays to weekends only. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I'm sure it's pretty and all, but it's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio!" Weekend spots at popular locations like Scioto Grove fill quickly during peak season.
Reservation systems differ: Each camping area has distinct reservation policies. "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park." Some sites operate on first-come, first-served basis while others require advance booking.
Cell service is spotty: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Geneva Hills Camp, cell coverage can be limited, while at Pop's Place, one camper reported "good verizon cell service there, I did not expect it because of the location and hills in the area."
Choose beginner-friendly loops: When backpacking with children, select appropriate trails. "Wonderful overnight backpack trip for our family. We did the South Loop at Zaleski - 10.9 miles. The hike was great. Lots of ups & downs, a pond & beautiful rock outcroppings...Our 8 year old did great & we saw lots of families camping."
Pack extra supplies: The region can experience rapid weather changes requiring additional gear. "The bridge was a lot of fun but I did slip on it in the rain as it was hard to get traction on the wood." Always bring rain gear and extra layers, even in summer months.
Look for kid-friendly features: Some campgrounds offer recreational amenities. "The common grass area has wood lounge chairs, common fire ring, playground, and cornhole boards...There is a basketball backboard near the current cabin if you happen to bring a basketball for your kids to use."
Consider hiking distances: When tent camping with children, evaluate trail lengths carefully. "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," notes one visitor at Geneva Hills Camp.
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Ashville, Ohio includes few developed RV sites with hookups. At Old Stone Church Campground, RVers note there are "grassy places to back in smaller campers/RVs" but limited services. "The only facilities here were a single pit toilet (surprisingly clean) and a trash can at each site."
Consider size restrictions: Larger RVs face challenges at most area campgrounds. "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)." Most tent-focused areas cannot accommodate big rigs.
Look for discounts: Some public campgrounds honor federal passes. "Campsite fee is $15 on the honor system. If you have a National Park's Golden Age or Access pass, they honor a 50 percent discount."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Ashville, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Ashville, OH is Scioto-Grove Metro Park with a 4.3-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Ashville, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Ashville, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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