The forested hills surrounding Glenford, Ohio sit at elevations between 800-1000 feet, creating varied terrain for tent campers seeking both riverside and hilltop experiences. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August. Spring camping often encounters muddy conditions due to the region's clay-rich soil combined with seasonal rainfall.
What to do
Motorcycle touring: Set up base camp at Pops Place Camping for exploring scenic roads including the Triple Nickel. "This is an ideal base camp for riding your motorcycle on the scenic roads in that area of Ohio such as the triple nickel. The owners are very nice people and helpful," notes David M., who adds the campground has "decent gravel for street bikes" at the entrance.
Mountain biking: Access the Baileys Trail System directly from Benton's on the Baileys, where sites are "surrounded by Wayne National Forest and steps from the Baileys Trail System." Keith B. mentions that the "campsite is near the Baileys Bike System," making it convenient for cyclists wanting quick trail access.
Gear testing: For backpackers wanting to test equipment before longer trips, Scioto Grove Metro Park offers an accessible option. "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail," writes Zach, noting the park provides "tent pads and a fire pit."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Geneva Hills Camp, tent campers appreciate the natural spacing between sites. "Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren't any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp," reports camper A.B., who found it "a neat place to camp" with convenient access to Hocking Hills.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at many Glenford-area campgrounds. One visitor to Old Stone Church Trailhead called it "Beautiful. Nicely maintained," noting it was "Well marked. Parking can be on side of road or down below where campsites are."
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the accessible pricing at area campgrounds. At Pops Place Camping, "as of August 2024 the rustic tent camping was $20," according to David M., who noted the site includes "porta john and shower" that were "very clean" plus access to drinking water at the shower house.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many tent sites have variable connectivity. Emily M. at Benton's on the Baileys reports "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."
Dispersed camping considerations: At Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, prepare for truly primitive conditions. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," writes Kevin C., who warns about "lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening."
Reservation requirements: The best tent camping near Glenford, Ohio often requires advance planning. For Scioto Grove Metro Park, Anna S. advises that you "need to reserve online, books up very fast," adding she "got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly terrain: Zaleski State Forest offers loops appropriate for different age groups. "I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop," shares Leon H., adding "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp."
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide dedicated play areas for children. At Pops Place Camping, David M. notes that "The common grass area has wood lounge chairs, common fire ring, playground, and cornhole boards," plus "a basketball backboard near the current cabin if you happen to bring a basketball for your kids to use."
Educational opportunities: Baileys Trail Tent Camping provides an immersive forest setting for nature study. Alex A. describes it as a "nice wide open space surrounded by woods" with "very nice bathroom/shower compared to what we expected," making it suitable for children needing reliable facilities.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through access: RVers with smaller rigs can find limited but accommodating spaces. At Old Stone Church Campground, Tammy F. reported "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. Tammy F. noted at Old Stone Church Campground, "I had good 4G ATT cell service. Worked well, with no drops. Data was a bit slower than usual but still good," which is important for RVers needing connectivity.
Limited hookups: Most sites near Glenford lack full hookups. Tammy F. reports that Old Stone Church has "The only facilities here were a single pit toilet (surprisingly clean) and a trash can at each site," and adds that "There may be more services during the height of the season, at least water for horses, but nothing else I could tell."