Tent campsites around Chillicothe, Ohio range from established state forest grounds to private primitive tent areas. Zaleski State Forest offers multiple backpacking loops with dedicated tent camping areas, providing a true backcountry experience approximately 30 miles east of Chillicothe. Waters Edge Canoe Livery and Lizzy's Acres offer additional tent camping options with varying amenities, creating a spectrum of experiences for tent campers seeking outdoor recreation in south-central Ohio.
Surface conditions at tent campgrounds near Chillicothe typically include natural forest terrain with minimal site development. At Zaleski State Forest, tent campers access sites via well-marked hiking trails leading to designated camping areas that include basic amenities such as water spigots, pit toilets, and established fire rings. Scioto Grove Metro Park provides free weekend backpacking sites with tent pads and fire rings, though these are only available Friday and Saturday nights and require advance reservations. Most primitive tent sites in the region permit fires where designated rings exist, but campers should verify current fire restrictions, especially during dry summer months.
In early spring and fall, tent campers often experience fewer crowds at Zaleski State Forest while enjoying the changing seasons. The backpacking loops offer varying difficulty levels suitable for both beginners and experienced tent campers, with multiple camping areas located along trails. Primitive tent sites provide access to hiking networks, scenic forest views, and opportunities for wildlife observation. The trails at Zaleski feature diverse terrain with ridge walks and valley passages through typical Ohio woodland. According to one visitor, "The trails are well maintained and marked. Zaleski would be a great place for a first-time backpacking trip, with campsites that have water access and latrines."
from $12 / night
"Lizzy's Acres is a new listing on the Dyrt, but they offer a great location for those looking to explore the area. Check them out and show them some love!"
from $25 - $35 / night
"There's a great loop hike in Zaleski State Forest. High quality trees, nice little hills, cool rock formations. Fine campground for tent-camping (my preferred camping method)."
"Campsites fill up quickly & areas will be shared. Not all have fire rings. Camp 2 is very popular since it is the halfway point(ish) on the trail. Camp 1 is only a couple miles into the loop."
from $50 - $225 / night
"Free reserve ahead weekend backpacking campsites. All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided."
"Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear."
"Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren’t any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp. It was a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp."
from $35 - $600 / night
from $30 - $100 / night
"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
from $32 / night
RangerAlways great time here. The upper part has more wooden areas then the lower part. But those spot are close to the lake. They a great playground. They have a big camp store with a putt putt, big lake we’re boating, fishing and kayaking. Multiple shower houses very clean kept up. Nice campground to ride bikes around.
RangerWe managed to get several sites near each other for 6-7 families and we had a blast. Near bathrooms, quiet, and within walking distance of the kayak launch.
GuideWe used Site 53, which is a pull thru. The site was spacious and level. The fire pit location is across a tiny stream; we enjoyed a campfire in the woods! There were no loud folks. The loudest thing we heard was the occasional bark of a dog (which we didn't mind).
The restrooms were new and extremely clean. The staff at the camp store was friendly.
There are plenty of places and opportunities to enjoy Pine Lake: you can sit on a bench or rent a canoe.
We'd love to return to Tar Hollow when the fall foliage is beautiful.
RangerThis campground is located near major roads and within a quick trip to Hocking Hills State Park. Tents spots are located near the lake and provide pine tree shaded cover. Bathrooms are private and very clean!
TravelerThis is a small campground. Typical state park sites--you will have neighbors/see and hear other people. There is a non-electric section, which I like for tent camping. The electric section is all RV's, this non-electric section is all tents and a little quieter, except if you're near the playground. Campsites all have picnic tables and fire rings, and are decently sized. All pretty flat and mostly wooded/part shade.
TravelerGreat - close to hiking trails at Hawking Hills state park!
RangerAlways a family favorite. Smaller sites on upper area. Nice big area for big rv on lower level and by the lake. Nice shower rooms. Camp store. Nice playground and putt putt.
RangerNice park, when we were there only half park was open( early in season). Great camp store. Nice shower rooms. Hilly. Some stop around us was sloped. But we did love the one with a deck, but your fire ring was down a hill.
RangerIt’s just beautiful there. Great for bikes. Good camp store, putt putt, bike rentals, camper beach. Easy access to fishing. And there a playground surrounded by a little stream of water that is so cool. New bathrooms are spectacular. Also has family showers.
Private tent camping sites near Chillicothe, Ohio offer options for campers seeking experiences beyond state parks. The area falls within the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet, creating varied terrain for camping. Most primitive sites remain open year-round, though water access may be limited during winter months at some locations.
Mountain biking trails: The Baileys Trail System near Benton's on the Baileys provides access to new mountain biking routes. "This campsite is near the Baileys Bike System," notes reviewer Keith B., highlighting the convenience for cyclists.
Canoeing and kayaking: Waters Edge Canoe Livery combines camping with water recreation on Paint Creek. "Very fun place to camp and enjoy the creek on a kayak or canoe. Very friendly staff, and one of my favorite places to go," writes Jonathan W.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer shoreline fishing access with no permit required. "You can dock a boat off lake hope and enjoy a day on the water, or rent a kayak or canoe at the local beach area right down the road," explains Kasey K. about recreation options near Zaleski State Forest.
Private tent pads: Scioto Grove Metro Park provides secluded tent platforms ideal for weekend trips. "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn't see a single person. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood," shares Anna S.
Testing gear: Short trail systems let campers test equipment before longer trips. "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit, besides that they're totally primitive," reports Zach at Scioto-Grove Metro Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many sites offer chances to spot local animals. "We ended up meeting our guide kitty friend at camp 1- most likely dumped which sucks but very friendly," notes Lani R. about an unexpected companion at Zaleski State Forest. Other campers report seeing deer, salamanders, wild turkeys, and occasionally snakes.
Reservation requirements: Many sites book quickly, especially during peak seasons. "You can reserve spaces to backpack along the rei water trail and stay the night to test gear. Not huge, no crazy obstacles but great for last minute trips close to the city," explains Neal C. about Scioto Grove.
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds limit operations to weekends or warmer months. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I'm sure it's pretty and all, but it's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio," warns Joaquim P.
Water quality concerns: Not all natural water sources are suitable for drinking. "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 Geneva Hills water supplies.
Start with shorter loops: Choose beginner-friendly trails for children's first backpacking trips. "I have backpacked the trails here since the 1980s. More recently, I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop," shares Leon H., suggesting Zaleski State Forest as suitable for various ages.
Consider walk-in sites: Some private campgrounds offer walk-in sites with more amenities than backcountry options. "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," reports Emily M. about Benton's on the Baileys.
Visit nearby attractions: Combine camping with day trips to regional highlights. "Take a day trip to one of the many sites to see in the region or go for a hiking through the Zaleski State Forest," recommends Kasey K., noting the proximity to Hocking Hills attractions.
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Chillicothe don't accommodate larger vehicles. "The backpacking site was a great site for new backpackers. It isn't too long but doing the full loop does let you know if your gear is working or going to be an issue," notes Kenpocentaur K. about Scioto Grove, emphasizing its focus on tent camping.
Private alternatives: Lizzy's Acres offers more secluded options for tent camping with minimal amenities. "Jake from the Dyrt here! Lizzy's Acres is a new listing on the Dyrt, but they offer a great location for those looking to explore the area," mentions Jake C., highlighting this newer option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Chillicothe, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Chillicothe, OH is Waters Edge Canoe Livery with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
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