Lake Hope State Park offers glamping accommodations within the 292-acre Zaleski State Forest, approximately 20 miles from Creola, Ohio. The park sits in the rugged hills of southeastern Ohio where temperatures range from 22°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Most glamping sites in this area require reservations 2-6 months in advance during peak season.
What to do
Hike the trails: Lake Hope State Park provides multiple hiking paths through dense woodlands. "The terrain is undulating but very doable. The campsites are pretty open, so if you did have neighbors...you'd know it," notes Dave V. about Lake Hope State Park Campground. The park connects to Zaleski State Forest trails.
Paddle on the water: Kayak, canoe, or paddle board rentals are available at several locations. "At Lake Hope you can enjoy camping in many ways rather if it's by tent (the way I prefer) or by camper. Very nice beach and swimming area. Hiking and horse back riding trails. Canoe/kayak rental," shares Jonathan W.
Explore historical sites: Visit nearby historical attractions like Hope Furnace. "As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," mentions Dave V. The haunted Moonville Tunnel is another historical site worth visiting.
Miniature golf: Top O' The Caves Campground offers additional recreation options. "Place was straight out of a movie with a mini golf, arcade and small pool. Camp store had a little bit of everything," writes William R. about the entertainment options.
What campers like
Nature immersion: Campers appreciate the seclusion and natural setting. "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," says Dave V. about Lake Hope State Park.
Proximity to caves: Top O' The Caves Campground provides easy access to notable geological features. "Located perfectly to get to multiple places of Hocking Hills," mentions William R. Ash Cave is accessible via a connecting trail from the campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "If you're lucky and have no clouds, there is virtually no light pollution and you can see the Milky Way," reports Jonathan W. about Tar Hollow State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: "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!" shares Chris C. about the unique nature programs.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal or non-existent in most areas. "There is no cell service. Enjoy the outdoors! You are off the grid!" notes Sydney about Tar Hollow State Park.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some glamping sites offer modern facilities while others are more primitive. "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," cautions Sydney about Tar Hollow.
Limited amenities at some sites: Trothwood Forest offers a more rustic experience with fire rings and basic toilet facilities but lacks some conveniences of larger campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: "Make sure you follow the State Park signs. So make sure you follow the State Park signs," advises Birgit H. about Strouds Run State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of proper navigation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday offers family-oriented facilities. "There was a nice little pool, but it wasn't open for the season yet. The shower houses were immaculate. The front office includes a little gift shop, ice cream, and pizza," writes Vicki H.
Beach access: "The park has a nice clean lake, nature room, bike rentals, paddle boat rentals, putt putt golf course and a movie stand. Great place to stay," notes Renée C. about the recreational options.
Nature programs: "We'd usually snatch up site 98 or 99...or both. No one would usually go that deep into the park. It was private...pit latrine nearby...flat and airy. Foot trails were nearby and the bike trail wasn't too far away," advises Dave V. about finding family-friendly sites.
Cabin options: For families seeking additional comfort, "It offers rustic cabins for those that dont tent camp or have a rv. On this particular trip it was chilly and we were staying with small children so we went the rustic cabin route," shares Kelli W. about her experience at Top O' The Caves.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: "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 Campground.
Road conditions: "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township, so its completely out of their ability to make improvements," notes Vicki H. about the approach to Hocking Hills KOA.
Service availability: "The sites were clean, and there were a wide variety of sites to choose from. From primitive tent sites tucked back in the woods to large RV sites with water/sewer/electric/cable hookups," explains Vicki H., describing the range of options.
Site selection: "Sites 87 & 88 are a bit more secluded but closer to bathroom so may have more foot traffic when busier," recommends Anne about choosing the right site at Strouds Run State Park.
