7 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Zaleski State Forest offers several equestrian camping options near New Lexington, Ohio. The horse camp provides primitive camping with drinking water available and free sites for horse owners. Trails throughout the forest extend for miles, making it popular with riders seeking longer routes. Non-equestrians occasionally stay in the horse camp areas, which some regular riders note can be problematic during busy periods. The trails wind through the dense forest canopy with varied terrain that includes undulating paths and interesting geological features.
Located adjacent to Lake Hope State Park, the Zaleski horse trails connect to an extensive network through Wayne National Forest. The bridle trails provide access to historical sites including the Moonville Tunnel, a popular destination for riders. Trail difficulty varies from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes with elevation changes. Most equestrian campsites accommodate horse trailers with pull-through parking. Riders should bring their own feed storage containers as facilities are minimal. The primitive camping experience includes vault toilets but no showers or electric hookups. The area features fern ground cover and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly during weekday visits when the trails and campsites remain relatively uncrowded.
"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."
Available this weekend
from $21 - $55 / night
"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."
Available this weekend
from $20 - $70 / night
"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."
Available this weekend
from $20 - $160 / night
"Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
"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."
Available this weekend
from $21 - $35 / night
"The second night we only had one tent near us. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
"OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season. Nice place."
"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."
Available this weekend
from $19 - $50 / night
"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."
"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."
"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
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
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.
ScoutWhile we are not horsemen, my husband and I so enjoyed our stay at this remote and picturesque campground. The property reflects great pride and financial investment: nicely-appointed and immaculate bathroom facilities; well-spaced campsites; classy equine stalls; and accommodating service second to none. Highly recommended!
Southeastern Ohio's rolling hills and forested landscapes surround New Lexington, providing varied terrain from 900-1100 feet elevation. This region contains sections of Wayne National Forest and multiple state parks with camping facilities that stay open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months.
Hiking trails: Burr Oak State Park offers a lake loop trail that runs approximately 20 miles around the water. "The trail itself follows the outline of the lake, roughly, and offers some spectacular views of the lake. The terrain can be hilly at times but not overly so. And there are a great deal of interesting rock formations, wildflower groves, and various different kinds of environments to see along the trail," notes James W. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Blue Rock State Park provides fishing access with a small lake and creek running through the campground. Ryan W. reports, "The fishing was good, and the activities with the naturalist (Cayden) were fun and engaging. The hiking was wonderful, the equestrian trails looked very nice, and the fire tower was a fun climb." The park features multiple access points for anglers of all ages at Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: The Zaleski State Forest area contains interesting historical sites including old iron furnaces and abandoned railway tunnels. James W. recommends, "I highly recommend taking the short connector trail on the south loop to cut over to the Moonville Rail Trail. We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek." The forest maintains multiple backpacking loops with established campsites.
Lake activities: Dillon State Park offers water recreation options including kayak rentals. "There are boat launches for your boats at the marina but the only watercraft that can be rented are kayaks and canoes," explains Kay M. about Dillon State Park Campground. The park features a beach area, though it may not have lifeguards on duty.
Equestrian camping near New Lexington, Ohio: Dedicated horse camps exist in the region with specialized facilities. "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around," notes Janessa S. about the Blue Rock State Park equestrian campground area. Zaleski State Forest also maintains horse-friendly trails and camping areas within 30 miles of New Lexington.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience, Strouds Run State Park provides basic sites. Isaac K. mentions, "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." These sites offer an alternative to the more developed campgrounds in the region.
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the region. Leon H. notes about Zaleski State Forest, "Fill your gas tank up before you head in and right your information down, signal coverage can be spotty." This applies to most camping areas near New Lexington.
Seasonal considerations: Many parks reduce services during winter months. "We stopped here on Thanksgiving on our way South. Self paying, off season was $15. But the restrooms were closed," reports Birgit H. about Strouds Run State Park. Check park websites for current operational status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near New Lexington, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near New Lexington, 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 New Lexington, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 equestrian camping locations near New Lexington, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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