Tent camping near Guysville, Ohio offers access to the expansive Wayne National Forest, which spans across 244,000 acres of Appalachian foothills with elevations ranging from 660 to 1,250 feet. The region experiences moderate seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Local camping areas feature varied terrain with mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak and hickory trees, creating natural shelter for campsites throughout the region.
What to do
Explore historic structures: The Old Stone Church Trailhead area offers hiking opportunities with historical elements. "Well marked. Parking can be on side of road or down below where campsites are," notes Christy P., who found the area "beautiful" and "nicely maintained."
Mountain biking: The 31-mile Baileys Trail System provides dedicated single-track trails specifically designed for mountain biking. A visitor at Baileys Trail Tent Camping mentions they "drove for about 3 hours" to access this location, describing it as a "wonderful little location" with "nice wide open space surrounded by woods."
Backpacking loops: Several established backcountry routes provide multi-day hiking options. According to Nick M., who stayed at Zaleski State Forest, the area offers a "good backpacking loop" though it "can get a little humid and buggy." Another backpacker named kevin T. found the Zaleski trails "kind of hard" even for experienced backpackers, noting the "19 miles" route was "definitely worth it because of the views."
What campers like
Private campsites: Secluded tent spots allow for peaceful stays with minimal neighbor interaction. Emily M. at Benton's on the Baileys describes their "excellent campground that is tucked out of the way," noting that while "you have to walk to the site, up a steep hill," it is "very private and quiet."
Reliable facilities: Even rustic sites typically maintain functional amenities. At Old Stone Church Campground, Tammy F. found "the only facilities here were a single pit toilet (surprisingly clean) and a trash can at each site," adding they had "good 4G ATT cell service" that "worked well, with no drops."
Wildlife encounters: The forested setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. Lani R. recounts meeting "our guide kitty friend at camp 1" in Zaleski State Forest, while another visitor mentioned seeing "salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey" during their stay. James W. noted the area has "a great deal of interesting rock formations to check out as well as a few good overlook areas."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Limited cell service in many areas requires advance planning. Lani R. emphasized there is "NO SERVICE PLAN ACCORDING make sure you have a map especially to get out of the park!!!!" at Zaleski State Forest.
Seasonal conditions: Weather patterns affect site accessibility and comfort. The region experiences significant humidity during summer months, with Nick M. noting camping areas "can get a little humid and buggy there."
Campsite availability: Popular areas fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Monday Creek OHV Dispersed camping, Kevin C. "arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty" but observed "lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening."
Payment systems: Several sites operate on honor systems. Tammy F. notes that at Old Stone Church Campground, "campsite fee is $15 on the honor system. If you have a National Park's Golden Age or Access pass, they honor a 50 percent discount."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible trails: Several areas offer hiking suitable for younger children. Renée C. reported: "Wonderful overnight backpack trip for our family. We did the South Loop at Zaleski - 10.9 miles. The hike was great. Lots of ups & downs, a pond & beautiful rock outcroppings... Our 8 year old did great & we saw lots of families camping."
Playground amenities: Some campgrounds provide recreational facilities specifically for children. Pops Place Camping features a "common grass area [with] wood lounge chairs, common fire ring, playground, and cornhole boards," according to David M., who added there is "a basketball backboard near the current cabin if you happen to bring a basketball for your kids to use."
Water activities: Nearby ponds and lakes offer swimming opportunities during summer months. Kasey K. noted you can "enjoy a day playing in the water, eating ice cream and sun bathing" at nearby beaches, adding "you can dock a boat off lake hope and enjoy a day on the water, or rent a kayak or canoe at the local beach area right down the road."
Tips from RVers
Site access: Some areas have limitations for larger vehicles. Tammy F. found Old Stone Church Campground offered an "easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer," noting "each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
Road conditions: Variable road quality affects travel to some campgrounds. David M. observed that near Pops Place Camping, "the road the campground is on is paved (good riding to the north of it) and the campground drive is decent gravel for street bikes."
Limited hookups: Most sites near Guysville offer primitive camping without electrical connections. While water is typically available at designated points, Kevin C. notes that even at established areas like Monday Creek OHV Dispersed camping, facilities are basic with just "vaulted toilet and garbage cans."