Campgrounds near Creola, Ohio offer camping experiences within the Wayne National Forest and surrounding state parks. Elevations in this region range from 650 to 1,000 feet above sea level, contributing to temperature variations that average 10°F cooler than nearby Columbus. During summer months, particularly July and August, overnight temperatures at higher elevation campsites can drop into the 50s even when daytime highs reach the 80s.
What to do
Hiking to geological formations: The trail network at Hocking Hills State Park Campground connects to multiple natural features. "Out-of-staters are unaware of the incredible beauty that Hocking Hills brings to Ohio. I can return time and time again and still be in awe of the waterfalls, cliffs and coves of Hocking Hills," notes Bryn S. For those seeking more challenging terrain, "Be sure to visit Conkles Hollow and Old Man's Cave for stunning rock formations and waterfalls. And for an incredibly exciting cave, take a trip to Rock House."
Kayaking on smaller lakes: Several campgrounds offer paddling opportunities on less crowded waters than the main recreational lakes. At Campbell Cove Camping, "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," says Ann H. Visitors appreciate the accessibility, noting "You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals."
Bird watching and nature programs: Seasonal wildlife viewing is available, particularly for migrating species. "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. They pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!" explains Chris C. from Lake Hope State Park. Educational programs run primarily from May through September.
What campers like
Secluded backpacking options: For those seeking distance from crowds, Zaleski State Forest offers multi-day backpacking loops. "I love Zaleski and have returned multiple times. These campgrounds and hiking trails are my go-to for a weekend backpacking trip. Rarely have I seen other hikers on the same trails but we always meet people at camp," reports Bryn S. The terrain has distinctive features with "many climbs and descents and takes you along ridges, through valleys, and along forest floors."
Historic sites and structures: Several campgrounds near Creola preserve industrial history. "As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," explains Dave V. about Lake Hope State Park. The nearby "haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike," providing historical context within a recreational setting.
Mid-week availability: Unlike weekends, mid-week camping offers significantly more solitude. "Each time I have stayed at Lake Hope State Park, I have marveled at why there are only a few stray campers in a state park of 190 sites. Granted...I am usually camping during the week...but its a ghost town," notes Dave V. This pattern holds true across most campgrounds in the region outside holiday periods.
What you should know
Cell reception limitations: Communication services vary widely across campsites near Creola. At Lake Hope State Park Campground, "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect," reports Daniel. This extends to several areas, with one visitor at Zaleski noting, "It is pretty remote (no cell phone coverage at even the top of the hills), and really is a chance to 'get away' from the modern life."
Campsite leveling challenges: Many campsites require significant adjustment for level setups. "Camp sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4 inch off ground to get close to level. Site around is sloped in all directions," explains Daniel about Lake Hope State Park. Similar conditions exist at Tar Hollow where "many of the campsites are situated on pretty intense slopes."
Varying bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality differs substantially between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are pit latrines. Normally, I wouldn't be too concerned about this (you're camping! it's cool to rough it a bit!) However…these are some of the dirtiest I've experienced," explains one camper at Tar Hollow State Park. In contrast, at Hocking Hills KOA, visitors note "The shower houses were immaculate."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly water features. At Top O' The Caves Campground, "It offers mini golf, a pool, park and small game room which is awesome for camping with kids," reports Kelli W. The campground's location adds hiking access, as "you can walk to ash cave from your campsite! There is a connecting trail right at the front of the campground."
Plan for walk-in tent sites: Some family tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Hocking Hills State Park, visitors should "pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! All in all we had a blast and a good laugh about our trek with all our stuff!!" cautions Amanda P. Similar conditions exist at Tar Hollow, where "you are carrying your items to your campsite. Depending on what site you reserved you could have to walk uphill for about 100-150 yards."
Consider weekday visits: Families with flexible schedules find significantly less crowded conditions midweek. According to one camper at Hocking Hills, "Great hiking trails. Very busy on holiday weekends so I think it is best to go when that is not the case or even through the week." This pattern holds across all regional campgrounds, with notable differences in site availability and facility cleanliness.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Many campgrounds have restrictions that may not match online listings. At Tar Hollow State Park Campground, "The sites were too short for my camper, which is odd because when booking I indicated the length of my camper. I had to back in camper, drop it, move truck, hook camper back up and finish backing in to site," explains Bill T. Always verify actual site dimensions before reserving.
Consider proximity between sites: RV sites often position rigs close together. "The RV sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded," notes Kevin F. from Lake Hope State Park Campground. This proximity affects privacy and outdoor living space, with some reporting that "sites are very sloped and the RV sites were pretty close together."
Electrical options vary: Not all sites provide the expected hookups. "The website advertises electrical hookups but it fails to mention that some sites on the premises are only 50 amp hookups and not 30 amp and 50 amp," cautions Paul F. at Lake Snowden Campground, suggesting RVers "at least say what amperage the site is that you are reserving."
