Best Campgrounds near Athens, OH

Camping around Athens, Ohio ranges from state parks to smaller local spots, all within easy driving distance. Lake Hope State Park Campground draws many summer visitors who want to swim and cool off in the lake after a hot day. Fishermen tend to head for Wolf Run State Park Campground, which has good spots to cast a line in relatively quiet waters. Hiking trails run through both parks, and you'll likely spot deer and various birds while walking the paths. The best camping weather hits during spring and fall, when temperatures stay moderate and the bugs aren't too bad. Summers get pretty humid, making the lake even more appealing. Winter camping is much quieter, and you'll have most sites to yourself if you don't mind the cold. Remember to keep your food locked up since local wildlife will definitely investigate any smells coming from your campsite. When you need supplies or want a break from camp cooking, Athens itself is close by with grocery stores and local restaurants. The area works well for both families with kids and people camping alone.

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Best Camping Sites Near Athens, Ohio (123)

    1. Lake Hope State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    New Plymouth, OH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 596-5253

    "Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave...but..."

    "Lake Hope has plenty of recreational opportunities for everyone and the campground is close by! The campground is quiet and well kept."

    2. Burr Oak State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Glouster, OH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 767-3683

    "Wayne National Forest shares the area with Burr Oak State Park near Glouster, Oh.

    Wayne National Forest is split into three areas in southeastern Ohio."

    "The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike. There is a bathroom across the road and access to water at the entrance of the site. Showers are 15 minutes walk or a quick drive away."

    3. Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    109 Reviews
    South Bloomingville, OH
    26 miles
    Website

    $29 - $46 / night

    "Beautiful trails with waterfalls, hills and lookouts. Full site hook ups, shelters or no electric tent sites.We were there for the Athen’s Marathon. Trails were close by."

    "There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."

    4. Strouds Run State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Athens, OH
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 592-2302

    "The go to camping location for Athens. Many campsites, trails, and amenities. Anything from boat rentals, a small store, and docks to use near the lake."

    "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. Plenty of trails for hiking around the park."

    5. Zaleski State Forest

    17 Reviews
    Zaleski, OH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 596-5781

    "Zaleski State Forest is adjacent to Lake Hope State Park. Off Rt 278 near Zaleski, Oh, true Ohio countryside to enjoy on the way in. Signal is spotty."

    "Much of Ohio is flat corn land, so Zaleski is a special place in Ohio. The trail swings close to some homes, which is less remote than out west where I live now, but overall it's nice."

    6. Lake Snowden Campground - Hocking College

    9 Reviews
    Albany, OH
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 698-6373

    "Lake Snowden is a great alternative to camping at Strouds. The lake is large and clean, with an awesome new “water park” opened during the summer. Great shelters, facilities, and optional bathrooms."

    "We were able to camp right by the lake. The trails are great for hiking and some more intermediate mountain biking. And there are boat rentals of many different types."

    7. Benton's on the Baileys

    4 Reviews
    Chauncey, OH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (773) 837-0847

    $40 - $125 / 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."

    8. Baileys Trail Tent Camping

    3 Reviews
    Millfield, OH
    7 miles

    "Spent consecutive months at this location and couldn't have been happier with the host and accomodations. Great for that "far out" feel just outside of town."

    "Wonderful little location. We drove for about 3 hours to get from where we are. Nice wide open space surrounded by woods."

    9. Burr Oak Cove Campground

    9 Reviews
    Glouster, OH
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 753-0101

    $10 - $15 / night

    "We enjoyed walk-in site #3 during a holiday weekend. The walk-in sites afford more privacy and tree cover than the drive-up sites, where you can see your neighbors on all sides."

    "Some sites are close to each other, some are more spread out - see attached map. The ones you need to walk to (3-7) aren’t far - I wish I noticed them when I drove by."

    10. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Corning, OH
    17 miles
    Website

    "Nice trails to walk. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year."

    "Great spot for walk in or hike in camping! There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail."

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Showing results 1-10 of 123 campgrounds

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Recent Reviews near Athens, OH

631 Reviews of 123 Athens Campgrounds


  • Aly M.
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Blennerhassett RV Park

    Friendly campground

    The owner was great. I called when I was on my way, he gave me a space number, and I was able to go straight to it. Weekly and monthly pricing is great too.

  • Alex A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Baileys Trail Tent Camping

    Peaceful Stay

    Wonderful little location. We drove for about 3 hours to get from where we are. Nice wide open space surrounded by woods. There were other campers but very friendly and had plenty of space to ourselves. Very nice bathroom/shower compared to what we expected. Will visit again.

  • Joe B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Campbell Cove Camping

    Nice campground

    We stayed at site 63 , on the water. Big site, water view and plenty of space. The road across the lake has an uphill section and people like to race up it. Trucks, motorcycles and cars. Really loud. I know the campground doesn’t control the road, so it’s just a note about the noise. The site is amazing, and I would come back.

  • Reb S.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    Horrible

    Really disgusted with out last stay here. We ended up next to some tent campers who were homeless which isn't the issue because things in life happen it was the way they acted that just grossed me out. I spent the first few days listening to them arguing and fighting amongst each other about their welfare checks being spent on their cigarettes beer and weed. They had 2 kids one that was autistic that they called a retard the other one they called stupid and it was just heartbreaking. I ended up having to go inside my camper and turning my ac on to escape their screaming and yelling and fighting that went into the midnight hour. My dog has a heart murmur and it made him anxious. I felt like I was camping in the bottoms of Columbus Ohio. The camp host said they are there all the time which is disturbing that they condone this behavior and makes me question the integrity of this location. Luckily after contacting ODNR we were able to move to a location far from them and given a gift card for our troubles. This was after they moved their camp stuff practically across the front bumper of my 100,000 RV. My husband and I pay way to much for our RV and for our stays to put up with this trash. We'd be hard pressed to come back here and be exposed to this kind of drama again.

  • Andrea H.
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Dillon State Park Campground

    Campground is quiet

    My partner and I have been here for 3 days , were staying for a week. So far everyone has been friendly or keeps to themselves. The bathrooms and showers are clean and the deer are plentiful and beautiful

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Farver Acres

    A Hidden Gem

    Our stay at this incredible campground was nothing short of magical. With three spacious gravel sites nestled in a quiet, serene setting, it truly felt like our own private escape from the world. We didn’t see another person for four full days — it was such a rare and welcome break from traditional campgrounds.

    The wildlife here is abundant and delightful. The natural surroundings are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.

    The water pressure at the site was excellent — just be sure to bring a water pressure regulator to ensure a comfortable experience. We were pleasantly surprised by the fast campsite internet.

    This site would be ideal for a three-family group — plenty of space for everyone to set up comfortably. Site 1 seems to be the biggest.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Kinderhook Horse Trail

    Nice Site, Not Private

    The site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit. I’ve had two cars drive in after sunset who have just sat around for a bit then left. I would not recommend this site if you are traveling solo (Like I am).

  • L
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Zaleski State Forest

    Nice get away

    Trails are nice and kept well, campsites are clean and well maintained. at each backpacking camp (3 in total) there is water and a toilet (nothing to wipe with) water is definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case. I will say there is some noise pollution from cars and planes near campsite 1. We ended up meeting our guide kitty friend at camp 1- most likely dumped which sucks but very friendly. tried bringing him home but he didn’t follow us. Besides Kitty and 2 other groups i saw no one else was here which was nice especially during a holiday weekend. NO SERVICE PLAN ACCORDING make sure you have a map especially to get out of the park!!!! PS if someone sees kitty please say hi :)


Guide to Athens

Camping near Athens, Ohio, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Hocking Hills State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Beautiful area with great hikes and views close by," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip at Lake Hope State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The lake is beautiful and there is a very nice lodge for meals," highlighting the area's charm.
  • Fishing: Cast a line at Wolf Run State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "We had the whole back section to ourselves! Not a soul on site but a few boats out fishing," perfect for a peaceful day on the water.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Campbell Cove Camping remarked, "I have NEVER seen such amazing, clean, nice bathrooms at a campground."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff. One guest at Huntington / Fox Fire KOA said, "The staff is great, friendly, upbeat," which adds to the overall experience.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the large sites at Dillon State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "Dillon is one of our favorite camping destinations. They have very large sites."

What you should know:

  • Close Proximity: Many campgrounds are close together, which can lead to noise. A camper at Lake Hope State Park Campground noted, "The spots were pretty darn close together for a state park."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at A.W. Marion State Park Campground mentioned, "There is no shower house," so plan accordingly.
  • Seasonal Availability: Check the season before you go. For example, Campbell Cove Camping is open from May 1 to October 15.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. Campbell Cove Camping has a great playground, making it a hit with families. One parent said, "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan some fun activities. A family at Lake Hope State Park Campground enjoyed hiking and swimming, saying, "Plan to take a hike if you can and go early to beat the crowds."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Dillon State Park Campground mentioned, "The park is gigantic," so having snacks can keep everyone energized during your adventures.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Forked Run State Park Campground advised, "Ensure your rig can fit into your selected site prior to booking."
  • Watch for Noise: Be prepared for noise from nearby sites. One camper at Wolf Run State Park Campground noted, "Our main issue was lack of oversight/patrolling after quiet hours."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have all the supplies you need. A visitor at A.W. Marion State Park Campground mentioned, "I was not able to purchase any campfire wood or ice as they were not there."

Camping around Athens, Ohio, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Athens, Ohio?

The Athens area boasts several top-rated campgrounds that showcase Ohio's natural beauty. Lake Hope State Park Campground is often described as an unsung hero with fewer crowds than nearby parks despite its beautiful setting and amenities. Just a short drive from Athens, Burr Oak Cove Campground offers peaceful lakeside camping with walk-in sites that provide more privacy and tree cover than drive-up options. For families seeking recreation, Burr Oak features potable water and affordable rates at around $10 per night. Outdoor enthusiasts should also consider Zaleski State Forest for primitive camping or Tar Hollow State Park for a more secluded experience. These destinations provide the perfect base for exploring the rolling hills and woodlands that make southeastern Ohio special.

What tent camping facilities are available near Athens?

Athens offers excellent tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Strouds Run State Park Campground is the go-to location just minutes from Athens, featuring numerous tent sites, hiking trails, and lake access with boat rentals and a beach area. Tent campers will also appreciate Lake Snowden Campground - Hocking College, located about 10 minutes from Athens, which offers tent sites around a fishing and swimming lake. For more primitive camping experiences, Wildcat Hollow provides free dispersed camping with hike-in access. Most campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities like vault toilets and potable water, with some offering more developed facilities including showers and electrical hookups for those who prefer a less rustic experience.

Are there RV rental options available in Athens, Ohio?

While Athens itself has limited RV rental companies, visitors can find rental options in nearby larger cities like Columbus (about 75 miles away) and Cincinnati. For those bringing their own RVs, Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers full hookup sites in a spectacular setting with access to beautiful trails, waterfalls, and lookouts. Another excellent option for RVers is Wolf Run State Park Campground, which features lakeside campsites with easy interstate access. Most RV-friendly campgrounds around Athens require reservations, especially during peak season (late spring through fall). For those needing rental information, contacting local tourism offices or checking with dealerships in Columbus is recommended, as they often provide delivery services to campgrounds in the Athens area.