Camping near Athens, Ohio ranges from developed sites to rustic backcountry options across Wayne National Forest and surrounding state parks. The region sits within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau, creating varied terrain with elevations between 650-1,000 feet. Fall camping seasons typically run from September through early November when temperatures average 45-65°F, while spring camping begins in April when wildflowers carpet the forest floor.
What to do
Hiking the forest trails: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers both a 5-mile and 15-mile loop with primitive campsites throughout. "The land is all regrowth forest and the further you go, the less you see of people - a novelty in this part of the world," notes Jason M. The trail is particularly beautiful in spring when "the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Strouds Run State Park provides water recreation with boat rentals. "Strouds is a great place to rent a paddle board, kayak, canoe, or pontoon," explains Lucille W. The park includes "a little beach area along the lake" with facilities including "pavilions, a beach volley ball area, and bathrooms."
Mountain biking adventures: The recently developed Baileys Trail System connects to several nearby camping areas. "This campsite is near the Baileys Bike System," confirms Keith B. at Benton's on the Baileys. Riders can access over 30 miles of purpose-built singletrack trails directly from several campsites, with trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty.
What campers like
Secluded camping experiences: Zaleski State Forest offers a backpacking experience with designated campsites and basic amenities. "All campsites have an outhouse and potable water all within easy reach from all camping areas. I've never felt cramped by other campers," says Bryn S. The backpacking loop includes "three main camping areas with established fire rings, bathrooms and water supplies."
Stargazing opportunities: The region's dark skies make it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. "Amazing at night for stargazing!" raves Olivia S. about Strouds Run State Park. The limited light pollution in these rural areas creates optimal conditions for viewing the night sky, especially during new moon phases.
Wildlife encounters: Lake Hope State Park provides opportunities to observe native species up close. "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!" shares Chris C. Trails feature "tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping can be challenging due to mud. "The trail was a cesspool of mud in too many places esp on the stretch between the trailhead and the loop," warns Eric S. about Wildcat Hollow. Trails "can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that."
Water availability issues: Not all sites have reliable or safe water sources. At Wildcat Hollow, "there is water in the valleys I wouldn't use it even with a filter. There are signs posted at the trailhead that advise against it," cautions Steve C. Always check water availability before your trip and bring adequate supplies.
Site selection strategies: Burr Oak Cove Campground offers a mix of drive-in and walk-in sites with varying privacy levels. "The walk-in sites afford more privacy and tree cover than the drive-up sites, where you can see your neighbors on all sides," advises Eira T. Arriving early increases your chances of securing preferred sites at first-come, first-served campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Choose areas with shorter, manageable hiking options for children. "I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop. Get there early and get to the campsites first, there are decidedly better sites in each camp," recommends Leon H. about Zaleski State Forest. The trail "is great for beginners and experienced hikers."
Swimming opportunities: Lake Snowden Campground offers family-friendly water activities beyond basic swimming. "During the summer they set up large inflatable slides and create a makeshift lake waterpark!" explains Lucille W. The facility includes "a nice little beach area along the lake. Several large pavilions. Playground for the kids."
Restroom accessibility: Consider proximity to facilities when camping with children. At Hocking Hills State Park, some campers note challenges with bathroom locations: "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike. Not good with kids," advises Jenny K.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the hilly region have uneven parking areas. At Burr Oak Cove Campground, Spencer S. notes: "There are nice leveled pads at most sites for tents; however, if you are bringing a trailer or RV it can be a challenge to level them as the parking pads are sloped." Bring adequate leveling blocks when camping in this region.
Hookup limitations: Burr Oak State Park offers varying levels of amenities for RVers. "The campground could use some updates. There are some really beautiful sites, but there are only a few with electric. The addition of concrete pads and electric would improve the campground considerably," notes Larissa C. Check specific site details when making reservations to ensure your needs are met.
Cell service considerations: Reception varies widely across the best places to camp near Athens, Ohio. "Att cell reception was at 2 bars of LTE as well making remote work possible," reports Spencer S. about Burr Oak Cove. However, at Wildcat Hollow, "There is cell service when you're up in the ridges but there are a lot of dead zones in the valleys and even at the trailhead."
