6 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Zaleski State Forest offers primitive equestrian camping with direct access to bridle paths and hiking trails. This free tent camping area is accessible via walk-in or hike-in methods and features vault toilets but no electric hookups, water connections, or trash service. While the campground does not have dedicated horse corrals, it maintains pet-friendly policies that accommodate horses. Sites throughout the forested camping area provide sufficient space for horses and camping equipment. The campground receives positive reviews with a 4.4/5 rating for its natural setting and trail access.
Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground in Laurelville provides dedicated facilities for equestrians approximately 25 miles from Glouster. The 44-site campground includes 30-amp electric hookups, water connections, and accommodates both tents and RVs. Sites feature picnic tables and fire rings with ample space for horse trailers. Campers have access to drinking water, showers, flush toilets, and a sanitary dump station. The campground requires reservations and permits pets, making it suitable for multi-day trail riding excursions. Situated near extensive trail networks, this horse-friendly campground serves as a convenient base camp for exploring the region's bridle paths through the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio.
"Wayne National Forest shares the area with Burr Oak State Park near Glouster, Oh. Wayne National Forest is split into three areas in southeastern Ohio."
"Burr Oak State Park is on the eastern edge of Wayne National Forest, outside Glouster, Oh , off Rt 13. The Lodge is on the opposite side of the lake off Rt 78."
Available this weekend
from $21 - $55 / night
"There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."
"If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."
Available this weekend
from $20 - $70 / night
"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...but..."
"At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways rather if it’s by tent (the way I prefer) or by camper. It’s a very nice place to have some family fun. Very nice beach and swimming area."
Available this weekend
from $21 - $35 / night
"The go to camping location for Athens. Many campsites, trails, and amenities. Anything from boat rentals, a small store, and docks to use near the lake."
"Sites are only rented in person once you arrive, they have clear instructions at the entrance. Sites were nice and level, but a bit on the smaller side. Plenty of trails for hiking around the park."
"The second night we only had one tent near us. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
"OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season. Nice place."
"Zaleski State Forest is adjacent to Lake Hope State Park. Off Rt 278 near Zaleski, Oh, true Ohio countryside to enjoy on the way in. Signal is spotty."
"Much of Ohio is flat corn land, so Zaleski is a special place in Ohio. The trail swings close to some homes, which is less remote than out west where I live now, but overall it's nice."
"Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
"I camped at this state park in the very scenic rolling hills of central Ohio on a hot and sunny weekend and was happy to find plenty of shade."
"I have been extremely disappointed with Ohio State Park campgrounds."
Available this weekend
from $20 - $160 / night
"Blue Rock State Park is outside Zanesville, Oh off I70. Rt 60 takes you South and then you have a choice of routes in. Good Ohio farmland scenery."
"Lovely park near Zanesville. The park is beautiful, lots of wildlife, and the trails were great."
Available this weekend
from $19 - $50 / night
from $30 - $35 / night
TravelerSites are basically parking pads with very little useful space around them but the sites are spaced apart. Bathroom and showers are usable but no frills. Scenery is pretty. ATV play area nearby.
TravelerGreat view of the sky for stargazing and telescopes at the sites in 40s. Trails are a little neglected though; lots of downed trees and faded blazes. Maybe it’s late in the season, and they will improve in the spring.
RangerSites are small - especially the ones with power. Bathrooms are dirty and very worn out. Only 1 of 3 of the mens showers were working. Lots of spiders in the bathrooms and the stall doors don't latch effectively. Camp store (and access to ice) was closed for 'remodel'.
RangerNot our favorite. Very small campground. Good hiking trails. Decent beach. Very hilly. Shower house was kinda gross.
ScoutHad a wonderful time camping with my family ground were well kept and staff was super friendly and it wasn't super busy
TravelerThis was a gem of a park to find. There is hardly anyone here and you have your pick pretty much of the camping spots. The spots are mostly level and there are two bath houses onsite. The bathrooms are pretty basic but they have hot water and so far I’ve had them mostly to myself. And it’s only $30 a night.
GuideClean bathrooms. Nice park rangers. Open areas with fire pits.
TravelerStayed at this small campground. Proof good things can come in small packages. Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level. My review is biased a bit, 1st night I was literally the only person camping. Plenty of nearby trails. Since it was so quiet in campground I saw wildlife like deer, turkeys, and they must have a resident pileated woodpecker because I keep seeing it. Branson (staff) who checked me in was very friendly and helpful. Three shower/bathrooms are very nice up by the office. They also have some outhouse style bathrooms further back in campground. Would definitely stay again if I can snag a site.
TravelerThere are two small camping spots with picnic tables. The vault toilet here is very clean and even had a lockable door. There is also drinkable water from a city water hand pump. Very quiet at night, except for a handful of cars that might drive through or spend the night. I spent two weeks here and had zero issues with people being loud or causing a ruckus. As far as fire wood, you can walk around and pick up all the downed wood you’d like, but I’d recommend bringing some wood with you if it’s rained in the last few days. Plenty of space to park. Gas stations, fast food, and dollar general are all within 10 mins. Verizon signal - 1/2 bars ATT signal - 2/3 bars
Zaleski State Forest offers primitive equestrian camping with direct access to 26 miles of bridle trails through forested terrain. The campground sits at approximately 800 feet elevation in the Appalachian foothills of southeastern Ohio. Most sites in this horse-friendly camping area are partially shaded, providing natural cooling during summer when temperatures can reach into the 90s with high humidity.
Trail riding opportunities: At Lake Hope State Park Campground, riders can access extensive trail networks. "The trails are superb...tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn. The terrain is undulating but very doable," writes Dave V.
Water activities: Visit the swimming beach at Lake Hope, just 15 minutes from Burr Oak State Park. "They have a nice beach and the lake is awesome. There are adequate shower facilities," notes Sarah G. The area also offers kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the calm waters.
Historical exploration: Take a short drive from the campgrounds to explore unique regional attractions. "The Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike. Unfortunately, it is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers...still cool nonetheless," mentions Dave V. about trips from Zaleski.
Privacy between sites: The Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers walk-in tent sites with more seclusion. "The walk-in family campground, not the main campground. The sites are mostly far apart from one another and the area is fairly dense woods leaving you feeling a peaceful solitude," says Kate W.
Water access for horses: Equestrian campers appreciate the water availability at established horse camps. "Campsites have water, but it can get a little humid and buggy there," notes Nick M. about his backpacking experience at Zaleski State Forest.
Quiet off-season camping: The region offers peaceful experiences in cooler months. "We stopped here on Thanksgiving on our way South. Self paying, off season was $15. There were only 3 other sides occupied," reports Birgit H. about her winter visit to Strouds Run State Park Campground.
Water quality concerns: Lakes in the region can have periodic water quality issues. "The beach was a little dirty from the geese, but that didn't slow anyone down on swimming," observes Ryan W. about Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this hilly region have uneven terrain. "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," reports Daniel about Lake Hope State Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across horse campgrounds near Glouster. "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect," notes Daniel, which can affect planning and communication during trail rides.
Kid-friendly water activities: Burr Oak State Park Campground offers family-oriented water recreation. "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach," says Larissa C., making it suitable for families with various interests.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area offer excellent nature observation opportunities. "We heard an owl and it was very peaceful," shares Nicole C. about her Burr Oak experience, providing natural educational experiences for children.
Bathroom proximity considerations: Choose sites strategically when camping with children. "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike. Not good with kids," warns Jenny K. about Hocking Hills.
Site selection for larger rigs: Dillon State Park Campground offers designated areas for RVs with appropriate hookups. "There is reasonable space between the sites to allow for some privacy and to allow you to spread out. Area C is the most secluded area. All RV sites have 50A/30A electric," notes Brian B.
Hookup limitations: Understand the electrical capabilities before arriving. "Limited sites have full hook-up. There is a dump station near the entrance," adds Brian B. about Dillon State Park, an important consideration for longer stays.
Water access points: Be strategic about water hookup locations. "No full hookup but potable water available throughout camping circles. We were by a water spout and every time an RV/Trailer came in they of course had to fill up. Check a campground map and try to avoid these sites," advises Linda B.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Glouster, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Glouster, OH is Burr Oak State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 34 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Glouster, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Glouster, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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