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.

Best Camping Sites Near Athens, Ohio (123)

    1. Lake Hope State Park Campground

    34 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

    32 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

    16 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. 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."

    9. Baileys Trail Tent Camping

    2 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."

    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

Recent Reviews near Athens, OH

617 Reviews of 123 Athens Campgrounds



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

What camping is available near Athens, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, Athens, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 123 campgrounds and RV parks near Athens, OH and 9 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Athens, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Athens, OH is Lake Hope State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 34 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Athens, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Athens, OH.

What parks are near Athens, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 parks near Athens, OH that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.