18 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Blue Rock State Park Campground features a dedicated equestrian area where non-equestrians occasionally stay, according to campers. The main campground accommodates tent and RV camping with creek-side sites, while the separate horse camping area offers basic facilities for riders. Walkabout Creek Horsemans Camp and Campground, located in nearby Chandlersville, provides more extensive horse-specific amenities including ample trailer parking and primitive camping options. Both locations maintain pit toilets rather than flush facilities in the horse camping sections. Some sites feature pavilion-type covered areas that provide shelter during inclement weather. The horse-friendly camping areas remain quiet with relatively few other riders present during many visits.
Several horse trails wind through the Blue Rock area, connecting to the broader network in Blue Rock State Forest. The trails feature moderate terrain suitable for riders of various experience levels, with some areas becoming muddy after rainfall. Trail markings are clear throughout the system, with the horse trails primarily located away from the main campground and day-use areas. Some trails run alongside creek beds while others climb to higher elevations, offering varying scenery. Riders should note that the equestrian trails contain substantial horse manure, particularly on frequently used sections. Water access for horses is available at certain points along the trail system. The park's fire tower provides a destination point for longer rides, accessible via the equestrian trail network which offers several miles of riding opportunities.
"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."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability"I camped at this state park in the very scenic rolling hills of central Ohio on a hot and sunny weekend and was happy to find plenty of shade."
"I have been extremely disappointed with Ohio State Park campgrounds."
from $24 - $160 / night
Check Availability"Blue Rock State Park is outside Zanesville, Oh off I70. Rt 60 takes you South and then you have a choice of routes in. Good Ohio farmland scenery."
"Lovely park near Zanesville. The park is beautiful, lots of wildlife, and the trails were great."
from $23 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Great great campground plenty to Joe we took the horses had a blast"
"Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around. Only complaint would be the non equestrians staying in the equestrian area"
from $17 - $50 / night
Check Availability"We go at least once a year for the Ohio Bigfoot Conference which draws people from all over the country."
"**Salt Fork State Park of Ohio is for individual, couples or group camping. Salt Fork lake is natural spring fed water supply that fills this lake."
from $24 - $52 / night
Check Availability"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."
"If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."
from $20 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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..."
"At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways rather if it’s by tent (the way I prefer) or by camper. It’s a very nice place to have some family fun. Very nice beach and swimming area."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
"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."
TravelerGreat view of the sky for stargazing and telescopes at the sites in 40s. Trails are a little neglected though; lots of downed trees and faded blazes. Maybe it’s late in the season, and they will improve in the spring.
GuideWe found site F26 at the far end of the loop. Short paved pad with electric very near a simple clean bathroom with flush toilets. Sites are treeless and fairly close together but the sites in our mini loop all backed up to the woods. Surprised to encounter mosquitoes in October. Overall the campground is huge with 5 separate loops that are spread far apart. The check in station is a significant distance from the first loop A and more than a mile from loop F so if you don’t have reservations, go to the website to find out which sites are available then drive around to make your selection -then call or go online to register. $45.50 for electric only site includes booking fee.
RangerSites are small - especially the ones with power. Bathrooms are dirty and very worn out. Only 1 of 3 of the mens showers were working. Lots of spiders in the bathrooms and the stall doors don't latch effectively. Camp store (and access to ice) was closed for 'remodel'.
RangerNot our favorite. Very small campground. Good hiking trails. Decent beach. Very hilly. Shower house was kinda gross.
ScoutHad a wonderful time camping with my family ground were well kept and staff was super friendly and it wasn't super busy
TravelerThis was a gem of a park to find. There is hardly anyone here and you have your pick pretty much of the camping spots. The spots are mostly level and there are two bath houses onsite. The bathrooms are pretty basic but they have hot water and so far I’ve had them mostly to myself. And it’s only $30 a night.
GuideClean bathrooms. Nice park rangers. Open areas with fire pits.
TravelerThe site is full hook-up. 30/50 amp. This site is partial tree covered and at the end of the loop. Shower house very short walk across the road. Trash dumpster across the street. This is a short site 23 foot max for RV. Has a double pad with concrete Picknick table area. Best spot on C loop.
TravelerStayed at this small campground. Proof good things can come in small packages. Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level. My review is biased a bit, 1st night I was literally the only person camping. Plenty of nearby trails. Since it was so quiet in campground I saw wildlife like deer, turkeys, and they must have a resident pileated woodpecker because I keep seeing it. Branson (staff) who checked me in was very friendly and helpful. Three shower/bathrooms are very nice up by the office. They also have some outhouse style bathrooms further back in campground. Would definitely stay again if I can snag a site.
Blue Rock State Forest encompasses 4,579 acres of southeastern Ohio woodland with elevations ranging from 730 to 950 feet. The area features mixed hardwood forests with beech, maple, and oak predominating across rolling hills. Winter camping often sees temperatures below freezing, with summer highs typically reaching the mid-80s. Cell service remains limited throughout much of the park, with stronger signals near the lake and campground entrance areas.
Kayaking on the lake: Burr Oak State Park offers multiple water activities near Blue Rock. "The lake is awesome. There are adequate shower facilities. Bring your own firewood. The firewood at the campstore is less than amazing," reports Sarah G. The park features boat rentals including kayaks and pontoons.
Beach swimming: Seasonal swimming options provide relief from summer heat. "They have a nice beach and the lake is awesome," notes Sarah G. about Burr Oak State Park. Water clarity varies throughout the season, and some beaches may close temporarily due to bacteria levels after heavy rainfall.
Geocaching adventures: The area contains numerous geocaches along the trail systems. According to Leon H., "Lots of geocasches in the area on the trails in Wayne national forest." Beginners should download the geocaching app before arrival due to limited cell service on many trails.
Creek-side relaxation: Blue Rock State Park Campground offers sites with water features. "We had a secluded site right beside the creek. The only negative was no flush toilets, only pits and so sink to was hands, but there was hand sanitizer at least," shares Nicole C., highlighting one of the primitive camping options.
Covered pavilion sites: Unique sheltered options exist for tent campers concerned about weather. Shelly S. notes, "A cool feature is a few of the sites have pavilion type covered patios that you can pitch your tent in to help stay dry during inclimate weather." These sites fill quickly during rainy seasons.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Blue Rock support diverse animal populations. Ryan W. from Blue Rock State Park reports, "Lovely park near Zanesville. The park is beautiful, lots of wildlife, and the trails were great." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains minimal throughout most camping areas. "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect," reports Daniel about Lake Hope State Park Campground, located within driving distance of Blue Rock.
Bathroom facilities vary: Toilet options differ significantly between camping areas. Nicole C. notes about Blue Rock, "The only negative was no flush toilets, only pits and so sink to was hands, but there was hand sanitizer at least." Newer flush toilets can be found in specific areas: "The remodel a few years ago added nice bathrooms over in the group camp area up against the base of the dam," according to Ryan W.
Fire tower access: Ryan W. mentions, "The hiking was wonderful, the equestrian trails looked very nice, and the fire tower was a fun climb." The tower provides expansive views of the surrounding forest but requires sturdy footwear for the climb.
Creek exploration: The stream running through the campground offers natural play opportunities. "There is a creek running through the main primitive campsites below the dam, with minnows and crawfish for the kids to catch," shares Ryan W. from Blue Rock State Park. Bring small nets and containers for temporary critter observation.
Naturalist programs: Dillon State Park offers educational opportunities within driving distance. "The people in the office are very nice," notes Ron A. Scheduled activities typically run weekends during summer and include wildlife presentations and guided walks.
Avoid peak bacteria seasons: Water quality affects swimming options. "The beach was a little dirty from the geese, but that didn't slow anyone down on swimming," Ryan W. reports about Blue Rock State Park. Check with park offices about current water conditions, especially after heavy rains.
Limited level sites: Walkabout Creek Horsemans Camp and Campground offers equestrian camping near Blue Rock. "Great great campground plenty to Joe we took the horses had a blast," shares Cheryl C. RVs may struggle with uneven terrain throughout the area's campgrounds.
Electric-only hookups: Most RV sites in the region provide limited utilities. "Only Electric available at each site. Shower/bathroom facilities look to be from the 70's," Gary O. reports about Dillon State Park Campground. Bring sufficient water and plan for dump station use when departing.
Horse trailer accommodation: "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around. Only complaint would be the non equestrians staying in the equestrian area," notes Janessa S. about the Blue Rock State Park equestrian campground. Advance reservations recommended for horse campers, especially during hunting seasons when sites fill more quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Blue Rock, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Blue Rock, OH is Burr Oak State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 34 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Blue Rock, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Blue Rock, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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