The landscape surrounding Glouster, Ohio features rolling Appalachian foothills with elevations ranging between 700-1,100 feet above sea level. The region sits within the unglaciated portion of Ohio, creating more dramatic terrain than found in northern parts of the state. Camping near Glouster presents options across Wayne National Forest and nearby state parks, with many sites featuring direct lake access and varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Paddle on Lake Logan: Campbell Cove Camping offers convenient water access for kayaking. "We loved the location of Campbell Coves to Old Man's Cave and hiking trails. We do a family trip to the area every fall and this will be our go-to location," notes Angie J., who also mentions the "bathroom facilities were some of the nicest and cleanest we've experienced."
Explore mountain bike trails: The Baileys Trail System provides dedicated paths for cyclists near Baileys Trail Tent Camping. "Wonderful little location. We drove for about 3 hours to get from where we are. Nice wide open space surrounded by woods," reports Alex A., who appreciated the "very nice bathroom/shower compared to what we expected."
Stargaze after dark: Clear nights offer excellent stargazing opportunities at Strouds Run State Park Campground, located about 20 miles from Glouster. "Amazing at night for stargazing!" exclaims Olivia S., who also discovered "shelters with picnic tables at one stop, and a little beach and boating dock if you keep going!"
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds maintain limited winter operations with reduced amenities. "We actually stayed at the lodge and it was lovely. We would hike around during the day and swim inside as it was before spring. Lots of great trails," shares Kenpocentaur K. about winter camping at Burr Oak State Park.
What campers like
Privacy at walk-in sites: Campers seeking seclusion appreciate the walk-in sites at Burr Oak Cove Campground. "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," reports Eira T., who adds that "camp sites are $10 a night."
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds receive praise for their clean bathrooms. "There are ample outhouses that are reasonably clean and well-stocked in toilet paper. It helps to have a friend because most of the outhouses don't lock," notes Kate W. at Hocking Hills State Park, adding that "the rangers and naturalists have many activities going on and are very knowledgeable."
Lakefront camping: Sites with water views rank among the most popular. "We stayed at site 63, on the water. Big site, water view and plenty of space," shares Joe B. about Campbell Cove Camping, though noting some road noise: "The road across the lake has an uphill section and people like to race up it. Trucks, motorcycles and cars. Really loud."
Proximity to trails: Direct trail access proves popular with hikers. "The camp store has some basics but they were out of ice. The lodge is on the other side of the lake so about 10 minutes away," reports Tracie M. about Burr Oak State Park, who planned to "rent a pontoon boat today and check out the beach."
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connection quality differs substantially between campgrounds. "There is good verizon cell service there, I did not expect it because of the location and hills in the area," reports David M. about Pops Place Camping. Meanwhile, Leon H. notes at Burr Oak State Park that "cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased."
Limited water access: Dispersed camping areas typically lack potable water. "While there is water in the valleys I wouldn't use it even with a filter. There are signs posted at the trailhead that advise against it plus there is still active oil drilling in one of the hollows," cautions Steve C. about Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail.
Seasonal challenges: Spring conditions can create difficult trail conditions. "The trail is horribly muddy," reports Eric S. about Wildcat Hollow, noting that "the trail needs to be planked, elevated or rerouted. This is on July 1. The seasonal creek beds all dry, but the muddy trail is awful."
Campsite leveling issues: Many campsites feature 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.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole. The bathrooms are so clean. You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals," notes Brianna L. about Campbell Cove Camping.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake Hope State Park Campground offers a unique wildlife program. "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.
Beach access considerations: Swimming areas vary in quality between parks. "The lake and the beach are very nice! Sometimes the water isn't very clean. Often times the beach is littered with goose droppings," warns Lucille W. about Strouds Run State Park, though she emphasizes that "the trails are worth it!"
Cabin alternatives: Families seeking more shelter can find cabin options. "Great cabin with a lot of room for family. Easy access to the water for a fun-filled day off boating," shares Lauri C. about Burr Oak State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Many campgrounds offer limited large vehicle access. "While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain," notes Marshall P. about Lake Hope State Park, who still "would recommend this as a nice weekend getaway."
Electric hookup availability: Some campgrounds have limited hookup sites. "The campground could use some updates. There are some really beautiful sites, but there are only a few with electric," shares Larissa C. about Burr Oak State Park, suggesting that "the addition of concrete pads and electric would improve the campground considerably."
Bathroom facilities: Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers varying bathroom quality. "There's outhouses with no running water but also a relatively new bath house with nice showers and toilets," notes Elana C., who "enjoyed a full hookup site" but found "the spots aren't very spacious."
Water fill stations: Primitive campgrounds may still offer water access points. "You will have everything you need for rv. Water, (fill your rig) Sewer Dump and electricity," reports Justin M. about Burr Oak Cove Campground, adding that "cell service is good."
