D
Darlene S.
Scout
ScoutFarver Acres
First stay
Was very nice,quiet n peaceful.We had to leave unexpectedly but plan to go back when it’s not as hot we had 2 dogs with us one got sick but hoping to make it back there soon
Camping near Nelsonville, OH
138 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The Nelsonville area of southeastern Ohio includes diverse public land camping options across Wayne National Forest and nearby state parks. Hocking Hills State Park Campground provides established sites for tents, RVs, and cabins within a forested setting, while Lake Hope State Park Campground offers year-round accommodations including glamping options. Several primitive dispersed camping areas can be found throughout Wayne National Forest, particularly near trailheads. Burr Oak State Park, located approximately 20 miles southeast of Nelsonville, features both developed campgrounds and more secluded sites with boat-in access along the reservoir shoreline.
Campgrounds in the region typically operate year-round, though services may be limited during winter months. Several OHV trailhead areas in Wayne National Forest permit overnight camping, but these areas close seasonally from December through March. Water access varies significantly, with state parks offering drinking water and hookups while forest service land generally provides minimal facilities. Roads to dispersed sites in Wayne National Forest may become difficult to navigate during wet periods. Cell service throughout the region is spotty, particularly in valleys and remote areas of the national forest. A visitor commented that "there are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
Campers frequently mention the peacefulness and natural beauty of the area as key attractions. Sites near Baileys Trail System are particularly popular with mountain bikers and hikers seeking direct trail access. Lake Hope State Park receives praise for its wildlife viewing opportunities, especially its hummingbird program during summer months. "The nature center was very well done with educational information that would be useful for the great hiking trails in the park," noted one camper. Many visitors use the Nelsonville area as an alternative base camp for exploring the popular Hocking Hills region, as it tends to be less crowded than campgrounds closer to major attractions. Primitive camping in Wayne National Forest appeals to those seeking more solitude, though amenities are minimal compared to developed state park campgrounds.
Best Campgrounds near Nelsonville (138)
1. Hocking Hills State Park Campground
"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 Availability2. Lake Hope State Park Campground
"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."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability3. Burr Oak State Park Campground
"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 Availability4. Campbell Cove Camping
"This is a very nice campground near all of the attractions of Hocking Hills, Ohio. We had full hookups that were excellent, but if we didn't there were several new restrooms throughout the grounds."
"Our site was waterfront and also set away from other sites."
5. Zaleski State Forest
"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. Burr Oak Cove Campground
"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."
"A friend and I were just traveling through Ohio and needed a place to stay."
from $10 - $15 / night
Check Availability7. Hocking Hills KOA Holiday
"Plenty of food spots just north on the highway exit we stopped at Milstone BBQ. Plenty of fun hikes in Hocking Hills State park."
"The one down side is the tent sites close to the bathrooms was crowded so if a little more privacy is wanted choose one a short distance away. All in all a nice place and I would return.."
8. Benton's on the Baileys
"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."
from $40 - $125 / night
9. Strouds Run State Park Campground
"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."
10. Top O' The Caves Campground
"It’s located very close to Hocking Hills State Park. Some of the tent sites are on an incline, but the RV site we had (site 24) was very spacious. There’s a a nice pool and nature trails."
"There's a small pond for fishing and a church from the 1800s and all together a beautiful place to walk around. The best part is you can walk to ash cave from your campsite!"
Drive Time
- 47 min from Parkersburg, WV
- 54 min from Columbus, OH
- 1 hr 41 min from Huntington, WV
Recent Camping Photos near Nelsonville, OH
291 Photos of 138 Nelsonville Campgrounds
Emily M.
Benton's on the Baileys
The Eco Camp C.
The Eco Camp
Vance M.
Hocking Hills Jellystone Campground
Dave V.
Lake Hope State Park Campground
Eira T.
Burr Oak Cove Campground
Leon H.
Strouds Run State Park Campground
Sarah G.
Burr Oak State Park Campground
Kelsey R.
Dock Area Campsites — Burr Oak State Park
Ed &.
Pops Place Camping
Leon H.
Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed
The Dyrt
Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds
Recent Reviews near Nelsonville, OH
661 Reviews of 138 Nelsonville Campgrounds
Kathy C.ScoutHocking Hills Jellystone Campground
Shouldn’t be called Jellystone
Jellystone Hocking Hills Ohio Don’t waste your money! I reserved a full hook up deluxe site with patio. Was supposed to be a level concrete slab. It was not! It was all gravel and dirt. No concrete whatsoever. This deluxe site sloped down so when you had a fire( weren’t allowed to move fire pit) your chairs went down hill and I fell almost every night. They brought in a crushed zone but it didn’t help the situation. Owner told us he would credit us some money back since the site wasn’t as promised, he did not. The playground was a mess. Old and nasty. The jump pad didn’t hold much air, so kids would jump on and sink right o the ground. The mining area was not locked so kids got into the pump and electrical areas which was dangerous for the little ones. YOGI BEAR MADE ONE 15 MINUTE APPEARANCE IN 5 DAYS. The schedule showed daily appearances at least daily if not more than once daily, which is how other Jellystones have been for us. MY GRANDSON was so sad. He had been looking forward to this trip for months, and recalled our prior JELLYSTONE stay at Watts Bar Lake in Tennessee, which was a totally different experience than this awful Hocking hills Jellystone. We repeatedly asked about Yogi appearances and were told“Yogi was busy and maybe he would come tomorrow“. The owner made so many excuses like,“my concrete guy didn’t show up last week” that’s why we didn’t have our concrete level patio site that we paid for. The playground didn’t have mulch cause his guy didn’t show up last week. The jump pad didn’t work right because his guy didn’t show up. The new pool wasn’t completed because his guy didn’t show up. Even the yogi bear statue they show in their picture wasn’t there. The pool they did have was in the owners backyard and you had to drive to it. It was slimed and disgusting. I have never been so disappointed. We drove 4.5 hours to get there specifically so my grandkids could camp at a Jellystone with Yogi Bear around. I don’t know how they are allowed to be a Jellystone, they are definitely not up to par. I’m sure we aren’t the only family to pay jellystones higher prices so the kids could see Yogi and friends daily. I could go on…there really were so many bad things about this place, but I see this review is very long. I will attach some photos
- Mikayla H.Scout
Snowden lake
First time camping
Had a wonderful time camping with my family ground were well kept and staff was super friendly and it wasn't super busy
- JJames M.Scout
A.W. Marion State Park Campground
A W MARION STATE PARK
Great location beautiful lake for. Camping fishing and boating
- BBradley F.Scout
OLDTOWN CAMPGROUND
Great for kids
Very nice place. Has potential to be great. Three fishing lakes. On old town creek. Plenty of space for kids to roam . Has a nice inground pool.
- JJesse S.
TravelerA.W. Marion State Park Campground
Nice ammenities, accessible, reasonably spaced out
Its a reasonably small campground, but I found that as long as you are mindful of tent placement- the sites are quite reasonably spread out. Additionally, im solo- but seems like a great place for families considering easy restroom access and the playground in the center. Also only a 30 minute drive from Columbus or so- and when I came in May, there were plenty of open spots to park.
Pam H.
GuideDorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead
Great for a night or two
Clean bathrooms. Nice park rangers. Open areas with fire pits.
JSHScoutBig Muskie Campground — Jesse Owens State Park
Perfect little known place
Site 18 was a little tight to back in our 32’ fifth wheel due to a river rock swale across from the site but I is a good site with no neighbors on your camp side.
- HHeather D.Traveler
Farver Acres
Quiet, Peaceful Setting
We very much enjoyed our stay here. The host was friendly and helpful. The site was level and the fire pit and picnic table were appreciated. It is a very peaceful and relaxing spot. There are some easy trails cleared in the woods that we enjoyed as well We hope to visit again soon.
Guide to Nelsonville
Camping near Nelsonville, Ohio offers access to Wayne National Forest's diverse landscape of hardwood forests and rolling hills at elevations ranging from 600 to 1200 feet. This Appalachian foothills region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winters often bringing snow accumulation of 20-30 inches annually. Fall camping draws visitors for peak foliage viewing from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Trail biking at Baileys Trail System: Located near Benton's on the Baileys, this extensive mountain bike trail network provides direct access for campers. "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," notes Keith B. about the Benton's on the Baileys accommodations.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Lake Logan near Campbell Cove offers good catch rates for bass, catfish, and panfish. "We had a great time here and it felt like we were in the woods but there was a business district about 3 mins away which was really convenient. Lake Logan was spectacular," shares Natalee M. about their stay at Campbell Cove Camping.
Historical exploration: Visit Hope Furnace and Moonville Tunnel for local iron-producing heritage sites. "We were plopped down smack dab in the Zaleski State Forest...so pick a trail, any trail. The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike," writes Dave V. about Lake Hope State Park.
Water activities: Rental options for kayaks, canoes, and pontoon boats available at multiple parks. "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach," mentions Larissa C. about Burr Oak State Park.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Many campers appreciate the less-crowded alternatives to Hocking Hills. "Lake Hope gave me a new way to experience an area I grew very close to and appreciate but cannot stand the swarms of people. It was a great quiet and spacious campground with solid amenities," reports Lori L. about Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bird watching and wildlife spotting rank high on visitor satisfaction. "LOTS of Geocaching opportunities," notes Leon H. about Strouds Run State Park, while others mention deer, turkey, and salamander sightings throughout the region's campgrounds.
Backpacking loops: The trail systems offer overnight options for backpackers seeking more remote experiences. "I went backpacking with my brother here last year and it was one of the best camping experiences of my life! We enjoyed four amazing days of hiking, camping and exploring nature," shares James W. about their time at Zaleski State Forest.
Waterfront sites: Lake-view camping spots provide scenic advantages at several parks. "We stayed at site 63, on the water. Big site, water view and plenty of space," reports Joe B. about their Campbell Cove experience.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campground access roads require careful navigation. "The road across the lake has an uphill section and people like to race up it. Trucks, motorcycles and cars. Really loud. I know the campground doesn't control the road, so it's just a note about the noise," warns Joe B. about Campbell Cove.
Primitive facilities at some sites: Bathroom and shower availability differs between campgrounds. "Sites near Baileys Trail System are particularly popular with mountain bikers and hikers seeking direct trail access," according to visitor reports.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have well water that may need filtering. "Water is available at 3 backpack camping areas...water is definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case," advises Lani R. about Burr Oak Cove Campground.
Limited cell service: Coverage gaps exist throughout the region, particularly in valleys. "NO SERVICE PLAN ACCORDING make sure you have a map especially to get out of the park!!!!" warns Lani R. about Zaleski State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Scout the backpacking loops: Zaleski's trail system offers family-friendly overnight options. "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," advises Leon H. about Zaleski State Forest.
Consider walk-in sites for privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options a short distance from parking. "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," reports Emily M. about Benton's on the Baileys.
Plan for varied weather: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, even in summer. "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave. We enjoyed swimming in the pool," notes Elana C. about Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Check amenities before booking: Facilities range widely from primitive to full-service. "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole. The bathrooms are so clean. You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals," shares Brianna L. about her family's stay at Campbell Cove.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature hilly terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4" off ground to get close to level. Site around is sloped in all directions," reports Daniel about his stay at Lake Hope.
Limited hookup availability: Electric sites can be scarce at some parks. "The addition of concrete pads and electric would improve the campground considerably and attract more campers to this beautiful area," suggests Larissa C. about Burr Oak State Park.
Alternative bases for Hocking Hills: Nelsonville area campgrounds provide less crowded options for exploring the region. "This is also close enough in proximately to serve as an alternative camping area for visiting Hocking Hills," explains Marshall P. about Lake Hope State Park.
Seasonal road closures: Some forest roads become impassable during wet weather or winter months. "Nice level good size sites. The sites aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Man's Cave," notes a visitor about Hocking Hills State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in Nelsonville, Ohio?
What campgrounds are available in Nelsonville, Ohio?
Nelsonville and the surrounding area offer several excellent camping options. Lake Snowden Campground - Hocking College is located right in Nelsonville and hosts the popular Nelsonville Music and Arts Festival in early June. Just a short drive away, you'll find Lake Hope State Park Campground, often considered an uncrowded gem in the region. Other nearby options include Tar Hollow State Park, Zaleski State Forest for primitive camping, and Hocking Hills State Park which offers numerous camping options with access to popular hiking trails and natural attractions.
Are there RV rental options in Nelsonville, Ohio?
Are there RV rental options in Nelsonville, Ohio?
While there aren't dedicated RV rental businesses in Nelsonville itself, RV-friendly accommodations are available in the area. Hocking River RV Park offers pull-through spots that can accommodate large rigs up to 43' fifth wheels, though some maneuvering may be required. Campbell Cove Camping provides full hookups for RVs and is conveniently located near Hocking Hills attractions. For RV rentals, visitors typically need to arrange through regional or online rental services in nearby larger cities like Columbus or Athens, then drive to Nelsonville area campgrounds. Many visitors bring their own RVs rather than renting locally.
What amenities do camping sites in Nelsonville offer?
What amenities do camping sites in Nelsonville offer?
Camping sites around Nelsonville offer varied amenities depending on the location. Tar Hollow State Park Campground features secluded tent-only sites at North Ridge with pit latrines, while Zaleski State Forest provides primitive camping with hiking trails and water access. For more developed options, many area campgrounds offer electric hookups, shower facilities, and picnic tables. Some locations like Wolf Run State Park have campsites very close to lake access, making water activities convenient. Campgrounds in the region typically include fire rings, potable water access, and restroom facilities, with more developed sites offering shower houses and camp stores.
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