Wayne National Forest offers some of the best tent camping near Clifton, Ohio with sites set among rolling hills and forested terrain. The area sits within southeastern Ohio's Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,000 feet. Spring conditions often bring mud and flooding on forest roads, while summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
North Country Trail hiking: The trail passes directly through Lamping Homestead Recreation Area, providing access to miles of scenic hiking. "The area is great for hiking, with the North Country Trail going right by the campground, cycling through the rolling hills of the backroads, and canoeing on the Little Muskingum River."
Historic bridge viewing: The covered bridge at Hune Bridge Campground creates a unique camping backdrop despite its current state. "OK, yes, there is a covered bridge, but it's closed and full of local yocal graffiti. Part of the draw for me was the river running alongside, but it is bone dry."
Mountain biking: The Baileys Trail System provides extensive biking opportunities near Benton's on the Baileys. "Extremely private primitive camping surrounded by Wayne National Forest and steps from the Baileys Trail System."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Some sites offer more separation than others. "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."
Budget-friendly accommodations: Most primitive sites remain affordable. "Lane Farm is a gem for travelling motorcyclists. We stayed there a week after labor day. The rate as of 2025 is $10 and it is first come, first served for the 4 sites."
Clean facilities: Many campers note the well-maintained facilities at Kinderhook Trailhead. "One vault toilet and perfect AT&T and Sprint cell service."
What you should know
Water availability: Most primitive sites lack drinking water. "The amenities there are a vault toilet (it was clean and stocked with toilet paper), trash bin by the toilet building, picnic tables, camp fire ring with cooking grate, and lantern post. As with many rustic national/state forest campgrounds there is no potable water there."
First-come basis: Many campgrounds don't accept reservations. "A cute little place, just 4 campsites and a vault toilet that is relatively clean and well-stocked. It is completely FREE, though, and you can stay for up to 14 days."
Cell service variability: Signal strength changes dramatically across locations. "There is no phone service within 4-5 miles of the campground."
Limited shade: Some sites lack significant tree coverage. "No privacy between sites and not much shade, which worked fine in May but probably wouldn't be much fun in the heat of the summer."
Tips for camping with families
Backpacking options: Zaleski State Forest offers family-friendly backpacking loops. "Wonderful overnight backpack trip for our family. We did the South Loop at Zaleski - 10.9 miles. The hike was great. Lots of ups & downs, a pond & beautiful rock outcroppings."
Wildlife spotting: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to see local fauna. "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018."
Bathroom planning: Most primitive sites have vault toilets only. "Latrine available (bring toilet paper). Campsites fill up quickly & areas will be shared."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many primitive sites have limitations for larger vehicles. "It's designed for tent camping, but Hamlet (our small camper) fit fine with some strategic parking."
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality. "This campground could be a meeting spot of sorts, but didn't witness any shenanigans."
Local services: Pop's Place Camping offers more amenities than many primitive sites. "I highly recommend pop's place. I stayed there Aug 2024 and as of that date the rustic tent camping was $20. This is an ideal base camp for riding your motorcycle on the scenic roads in that area of Ohio such as the triple nickel."
