Camping spots near Cutler, Ohio sit within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau, featuring elevation changes of 600-900 feet and deciduous forest dominated by oak and hickory trees. Many campgrounds operate with reduced amenities during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing. The terrain consists primarily of sandstone bedrock with natural drainage patterns creating seasonal water features throughout the camping areas.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Forked Run State Park offers an established course among its recreational amenities. "I used to go here a lot on day trips to swim at the man made sandy beach on the lake. What makes the lake unique at Forked Run is that it contains dime sized fresh water jelly fish. These type aren't able to sting you," notes one Forked Run visitor.
Hiking trail systems: The Wildcat Hollow trail system provides both short and long loop options for different skill levels. A camper reports, "The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys. There is a 5 mile loop or a longer ~15 mile loop that you can hike and there are campsites every couple of miles," making Wildcat Hollow ideal for overnight backpacking.
Lake activities: Multiple watercraft rental options exist at Burr Oak Lake. "The addition of concrete pads and electric would improve the campground considerably and attract more campers to this beautiful area," comments a visitor regarding infrastructure improvements at Burr Oak State Park. Campers also mention, "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach."
Historical exploration: Mining and industrial history sites dot the region. "Hope furnace is just outside the campground and next to the first 'put-in' for the lake. As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," explains a camper describing Lake Hope State Park's historical features.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Burr Oak Cove Campground features walk-in sites that offer more privacy. "Walk in sites are much more secluded than the drive in although I don't think this campground gets a ton of usage," notes a Burr Oak Cove visitor. Another mentions, "We enjoyed walk-in site #3 during a holiday weekend. The walk-in sites afford more privacy and tree cover than the drive-up sites, where you can see your neighbors on all sides."
Quieter alternatives to popular parks: Lake Hope State Park offers solitude compared to busier areas. "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... 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," explains a Lake Hope visitor.
Naturalist programs: Educational wildlife activities are available seasonally at certain parks. "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 an enthusiastic Lake Hope camper.
Spring wildflowers: Seasonal blooming creates distinctive experiences in wooded areas. One regular visitor to Wildcat Hollow notes, "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers."
What you should know
Water conditions vary: Lake and beach water quality fluctuates throughout seasons. A visitor to Strouds Run noted, "In mid April 2023 I arrived late afternoon and there were TONS of spots available. Happy with the spot I picked. There was some noise from other campsites, but overall not terrible. Strouds is an amazing park with incredible trails! Bathrooms were clean."
Cell service limitations: Coverage gaps exist throughout the region, especially in valleys and remote areas. "There is cell service when you're up in the ridges but there are a lot of dead zones in the valleys and even at the trailhead," reports a Strouds Run visitor.
Site leveling challenges: Many camping locations feature sloped terrain requiring adjustment for comfortable setup. A Lake Hope visitor commented, "The campground is pretty secluded but beautiful rolling hills. While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain."
Seasonal facility closures: Winter camping comes with reduced amenities at most locations. "We stopped here on Thanksgiving on our way South. Self paying, off season was $15. But the restrooms were closed. There were only 3 other sides occupied," reports a Strouds Run camper about winter conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: Family-friendly cabin accommodations provide weather protection. "Great cabin with a lot of room for family. Easy access to the water for a fun-filled day off boating," shares a review of Burr Oak State Park cabins.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play equipment for younger visitors. "A swingset is across the road in the main campground. There is also a large wooden screen near the entrance where you can use your own projector to watch movies at night," notes a visitor describing Lake Hope State Park's family-friendly amenities.
Group camping areas: Designated group sites accommodate larger family gatherings. "This is a great place to camp! Very spacious with lots of fire rings and picnic tables. 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," explains a reviewer of Burr Oak State Park's group camping area.
Swim areas: Designated beach areas provide safer swimming conditions for children. The beach at Forked Run gets particular mention: "Our family has camped here for many years and up to 10 days at a time. Looking forward to our next trip and hitting the beach again."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric options vary significantly between parks. "We have camped in a tent here several times. Popular for Scouting campouts and popular with local boaters. Hiking trails are good, the lodge has been renovated, however, I have not stayed there since the reno. Fairly remote, cell service is dicey," notes a Hocking Hills visitor.
Site sizing considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger recreational vehicles. "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 Mans Cave. We enjoyed swimming in the pool," reports a Hocking Hills camper.
Leveling requirements: Prepare adequate leveling equipment for uneven terrain. A Burr Oak Cove visitor reports, "There are nice leveled pads at most sites for tents; however, if you are brining a trailer or RV it can be a challenge to level them as the parking pads are sloped."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide full sanitation facilities. "Showers were clean but only central and shared between all loops. We drove through loop 1 on our way out and it looked to be kept up better and cleaner," shares a Forked Run visitor describing facilities.
