Equestrian Camping near Bourneville, OH

Zaleski State Forest offers primitive camping and equestrian facilities approximately 40 miles from Bourneville, Ohio. The campground provides direct access to an extensive trail network within southeast Ohio's rolling hills. Free camping areas include vault toilets and drinking water sources, with strict pack-in, pack-out policies for all trash and waste.

What to do

Hiking through Zaleski trails: The backpacking trail system features multiple loop options ranging from beginner to advanced. "I have backpacked the trails here since the 1980s. More recently, 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," shares a visitor at Zaleski State Forest.

Paddle on nearby lakes: Located within short driving distance, Pike Lake State Park offers water recreation options on its small lake. "The lake is smaller, but nice beach area and pedal boats are fun. We hiked the Greenbriar and CCC Trails. They are not too challenging but beautiful," notes a camper at Pike Lake State Park Campground.

Visit historical sites: Explore the region's iron production history with a trip to Hope Furnace near Lake Hope State Park. "You are plopped down smack dab in the Zaleski State Forest...a short drive away are amazing trails and formations...Old Man's Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Conkle's Hollow, Rockhouse and Ash Cave," mentions a visitor at Lake Hope State Park Campground.

What campers like

Backpacking campsites: The designated camping areas throughout Zaleski feature amenities uncommon for backcountry settings. "All of the campsites have an outhouse and potable water all within easy reach from all camping areas. I've never felt cramped by other campers and we've always had a great spot to make a fire, hang our food, and put up a line for our clothes to dry on."

Peaceful atmosphere: Great Seal State Park provides a quieter alternative for equestrian camping near Bourneville. "Simple and safe... Fifteen reservable sites via online or phone. Equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers seem to use this park often. Although no utilities... there is a shelter, restroom and trash receptacle," reports a visitor at Great Seal State Park Campground.

Well-maintained horse facilities: For riders seeking more developed options, Palmerosa Campground offers improved amenities. "The new owners of the Palmerosa Campground have put a lot of time and money into this campground! Almost everything has been tore down and rebuilt... The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built," notes a recent visitor at Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground.

What you should know

Campsite selection matters: When choosing a spot at Zaleski, arrive early for better sites. "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018. Back in 1988, I saw two rattlesnakes together beside the trail on the northern loop."

Water availability: Water sources are limited but consistent at designated points. "The water is good and I have never seen them dry. Treat yourself to a post hike meal at the Lake Hope Dining Lodge, Sunday brunch is awesome."

Trail conditions: Terrain varies significantly with seasonal changes. "Trails had lots of poison ivy & ticks present. We look forward to coming back & doing the remainder of the trail. Blazes: The main trail is blazed orange and camp side trails/day hike cutoff is blazed white," shares a hiker at Pine Creek Cabins & Camping Resort.

Tips for camping with families

Pack appropriate gear: The primitive nature of equestrian camping requires thorough preparation. "We stayed in the walk-in family campground, not the main campground. The sites are mostly far apart from one another and the area is fairly dense woods leaving you feeling a peaceful solitude."

Plan for bathroom access: Toilet facilities are basic across most horse camps. "There are ample outhouses that are reasonably clean and well-stocked in toilet paper. It helps to have a friend because most of the outhouses don't lock."

Consider water activities: Balance trail time with swimming options for children. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. And there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various tips accordingly. There are three main camping areas with established fire rings, bathrooms and water supplies."

Tips from RVers

Limited hookup options: Most equestrian campgrounds prioritize tent camping over RV amenities. "Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites. Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path," reports a visitor at Shawnee State Park Campground.

Alternative nearby options: Consider developed campgrounds for RV access while day-tripping to horse trails. "Site 57 - this site backs up to the ravine and is nice and large. It has a lot of shade and grass. We were able to run a line between trees for a dog run."

Prepare for variable terrain: Parking areas for horse trailers may present challenges for larger rigs. "We wanted to like this place... the camping however left much to be desired. The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike."