6 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Zaleski State Forest Horse Camp offers primitive camping with direct access to bridle trails in the scenic southeastern Ohio region. Located about 18 miles from Chauncey, this free camping area provides pit toilets and drinking water for visitors with horses. The campground accommodates tent camping only with no electric hookups or RV facilities available. Fire rings are permitted, and pets are allowed to accompany horses and their owners at the site. The campground receives positive reviews from equestrians, with a 4.4-star rating reflecting satisfaction with the trail access and natural setting. Sites cannot be reserved in advance and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground in Laurelville features 44 campsites catering to both tent and RV campers with horses. Positioned approximately 25 miles from Chauncey, this campground offers electric hookups including 30-amp service, drinking water, and water hookups for convenient horse care. Bathroom facilities include showers and toilets, with trash service and campfire rings at each site. A sanitary dump station is available for RV users. The trail system connects to broader riding networks throughout the Wayne National Forest area. Sites are generally level and separated by adequate distance for horse comfort. Winter visitors should check ahead as some facilities close seasonally and trail conditions can vary significantly following rain or snow.
"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
"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
"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 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."
"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."
from $30 - $35 / night
"Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
"Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level."
"The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built! They are amazing and plenty if room for larger horses. "
Campground full this weekend
from $25 - $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
TravelerSites are basically parking pads with very little useful space around them but the sites are spaced apart. Bathroom and showers are usable but no frills. Scenery is pretty. ATV play area nearby.
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.
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.
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.
TravelerThere are two small camping spots with picnic tables. The vault toilet here is very clean and even had a lockable door. There is also drinkable water from a city water hand pump. Very quiet at night, except for a handful of cars that might drive through or spend the night. I spent two weeks here and had zero issues with people being loud or causing a ruckus. As far as fire wood, you can walk around and pick up all the downed wood you’d like, but I’d recommend bringing some wood with you if it’s rained in the last few days. Plenty of space to park. Gas stations, fast food, and dollar general are all within 10 mins. Verizon signal - 1/2 bars ATT signal - 2/3 bars
Southeastern Ohio's Wayne National Forest area offers diverse equestrian camping options near Chauncey, with elevations ranging from 600-1,000 feet throughout the region. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide seasonal camping conditions that vary significantly between summer and winter months. Trail systems often follow old logging roads and connect multiple recreation areas.
Trail riding at Lake Hope State Park: The bridle trails provide access to Zaleski State Forest with varying difficulty levels. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. And there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various tips accordingly," explains James W. about Zaleski State Forest.
Swimming and boating: Lake options include beaches and rental equipment for day trips from camp. "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach," notes Larissa C. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Hiking to historic sites: The region contains abandoned mining and railroad infrastructure accessible from most horse campgrounds. "We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek," shares James W. about the connector trail from Zaleski.
Privacy between campsites: Many equestrian areas feature well-spaced camping spots. "The sites are mostly far apart from one another and the area is fairly dense woods leaving you feeling a peaceful solitude," reports Kate W. about the family camping area at Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Direct trail access: Riders appreciate dedicated trail connections from camping areas. "We stayed in one of the small cabins and loved it! Very clean, with thoughtful amenities. Hot tub on the back porch. This cabin also comes with two horse stalls. Bridle trail access right from campground," shares CampgroundKaren about Pine Creek Cabins & Camping Resort.
Water availability: Most equestrian sites provide water sources for horses. "There is potable water at the parking lot only. The walk-in campground does NOT connect by trail to any other trails. A car is fairly necessary," notes Kate W. about facilities at Hocking Hills.
Seasonal facility limitations: Services vary significantly by season. "Winter visitors should check ahead as self paying, off season was $15. But the restrooms were closed. There were only 3 other sides occupied," explains Birgit H. about Strouds Run State Park Campground.
Trail conditions after weather events: Heavy rain can impact trail accessibility significantly. "Hiking trails are nice but very muddy after the rain. Lots of geocasches in the area on the trails in Wayne national forest," shares Kelsey R.
Limited cell reception: Communication can be challenging in more remote areas. "Fairly remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," mentions Leon H.
Look for level sites: Many campgrounds have significant terrain variation. "Our site # 14 was very hilly but at least it had a tent pad at the bottom of the hill so it was flat where we were sleeping," notes Nicole C. about Old Stone Church Campground.
Consider bathroom locations: Facility proximity varies widely between sites. "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," warns Jenny K.
Check for activities beyond riding: Some parks offer additional recreation. "They have a swimming pool and even an outdoor theater. Clean bathrooms and heated showers," reports Meghan H.
Prepare for electric limitations: Many horse campgrounds have restricted electrical service. "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 Man's Cave," shares Elana C.
Verify site dimensions: Sizing varies significantly between campgrounds for larger rigs. "The sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded. We took a couple of the hikes down by the lake and it was great," explains Kevin F.
Watch for leveling challenges: Many equestrian sites require significant leveling. "Camp 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," warns Daniel about Lake Hope State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Chauncey, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Chauncey, OH is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 109 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Chauncey, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Chauncey, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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