Best Tent Camping near Hamden, OH

Tent campsites throughout the Zaleski State Forest and Wayne National Forest provide primitive camping options near Hamden, Ohio. Established tent-only areas like Monday Creek OHV Dispersed and Zaleski State Forest Backpacking Trail offer secluded sites surrounded by southeastern Ohio woodlands. Several campgrounds permit tent camping within designated areas, with most sites situated on flat terrain approximately 30-40 miles from Hamden proper.

Most tent camping areas feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Sites typically include fire rings and flat tent pads on natural ground surfaces. The Zaleski backpacking trail provides three main camping areas with water pumps and vault toilets, while more remote dispersed sites like Monday Creek have vault toilets but require campers to bring their own water. Primitive tent setups in Wayne National Forest follow standard dispersed camping regulations, requiring sites to be at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. According to one visitor, "Trails are well marked and easy to follow, and there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various trips accordingly."

The tent camping experience in this region offers genuine woodland seclusion amid the hills and forests of southeastern Ohio. Campsites at Zaleski provide convenient access to well-maintained hiking trails with multiple loop options ranging from 10-20 miles, ideal for backpacking excursions. Many tent-only sites are situated in areas with rock formations, seasonal streams, and ridge views characteristic of the Appalachian foothills. Primitive campsites fill quickly during peak seasons, particularly at popular locations like Camp 2 on the Zaleski South Loop. A camper noted that "the campsites were pretty decent and secluded, but nothing special view-wise aside from the typical Ohio forest." Most tent camping areas throughout the region provide good tree cover, creating shaded sites during summer months.

Best Tent Sites Near Hamden, Ohio (30)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Hamden, OH

563 Reviews of 30 Hamden Campgrounds


  • Eira T.
    Jul. 5, 2015

    Burr Oak Cove Campground

    Quiet campground in Wayne National Forest!

    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. No showers or sinks, just several vault toilets. Potable water available throughout the camp. Camp sites are $10 a night.

    Neighbors were fairly quiet, and there is one trail that leads down to Burr Oak lake. The trail is 1 mile, but it seems to link up with some longer yellow and green-blazed trails that go around the lake. The campground is also a short drive from the Wildcat Hollow trail head in the Athens Unit of Wayne National Forest

  • B
    Oct. 23, 2021

    Forked Run State Park Campground

    Bad for tents

    Went there in October. No attendance around and not many campers. Sites are very bad for tent camping and not the bet for RV’s. Back ins are sort and most sites have no level ground even for the picnic table or fire ring. Showers were clean but cold. Vault toilets only and stuck to high Heaven. Not serviced well at all. Hiked the lake view trail, poorly maintained. The upper loop from the beach end is very hard to find and not marked at all. Even more disappointing than Hope Lake which has its own site problems for tents.

  • Alex M.
    Jul. 20, 2022

    Krodel Park Campground

    Nice park, awful bathrooms

    This is a strange campground, but not a bad one. It is minutes away from downtown Point Pleasant. I had spent the afternoon exploring the town and didn't feel like driving further. There aren't many campgrounds nearby, so this place came to the rescue.

    The park's main feature is a lake that looks to be artificial. Maybe an old gravel quarry? The terrain around the lake is nicely landscaped. There is a paved path along the shore, along with picnic tables and shelters. Kayak rentals are available and the lake is stocked with fish.

    Most of the campground is RV focused, but I stayed at a primitive tent site. These are located closer to the entrance. There are no site numbers. Just pull your car up onto the grass and set up wherever. A few picnic tables and electrical outlets are spaced out along the road. There were a few other campers here when I visited, but there was enough room for us to maintain good separation. No shade trees or shrubs for privacy, though.

    This is not a particularly quiet or restful campground. The day use area around the lake was hopping, with people coming and going well into the night. No closing time, or just not enforced? Not sure. Having so much traffic was a little uncomfortable from a safety standpoint, but nothing untoward happened while I was there. There was also quite a bit of noise from the nearby road and railroad.

    The biggest problem with this campground was the bathroom. It was one of the worst I've seen. It may very well have been cleaned recently, but it was so dark and dingy that I couldn't tell. No windows and just a single bare incandescent bulb for illumination. Reminded me of a gas station toilet. The sink barely drained, the toilet barely flushed, and the urinal looked like it was about to fall off the wall. I have used vault toilets that were much, much nicer than this. I found myself wishing for one of those. Gross.

    There is only one other bathroom located closer to the RV area, and this looked to be just as bad. To be clear, there are only two single occupancy men's rooms for the ENTIRE campground. Yes, there are a few porta potties scattered around as well, but this is ridiculous. This place needs to invest in better facilities.

  • Anna S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Scioto Trail State Park Campground

    Tent only sites - quiet, wooded

    I stayed in the non-electric, tent-only campground NOT the RV campground. Out of curiosity, I drove through the RV campground and it was so loud and cramped! But the tent-only area is separate. Walk-in sites with pit toilets and potable water. The map of how the sites are laid out online is extremely inaccurate, I would not have picked my site if it had been accurate. But there was only one other camper and we all had plenty of space - I could barely see them through the trees. All sites appeared to have a picnic table and fire ring. Many miles of trails / dirt roads for hiking and biking. Clear skies at night. Very relaxing.

  • Dave V.
    Oct. 31, 2019

    Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    Close proximity to natural attractions

    Hocking Hills State Park, Oh-Site 89. https://thehockinghills.org/

    Hocking Hills State Park offers close proximity to most of the popular natural attractions...Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, etc....but for a tent camper that prefers solitude and space, I found it unappealing.

    I did arrive late on a Monday evening, mid-October and got one of the last available sites. Packed on a Monday night!

    I found the camping sites a bit cramped both in depth and width. Site 89 and 90 shared the same parking pad. Limited flat locations existed for a tent and my tent footprint is fairly small. You do have a firepit and picnic table with all three in fairly close proximity, so you must be extremely cautious with wind direction when deciding for a fire, else you’ll have embers dotting your tent and picnic table. Even though the neighbors were trying to be respectfully quiet...you heard every conversation and saw their every move.

    No electric, which is fine in my book...the water spigot is centrally located on the loop and happened to be next to my site.

    The restroom/shower facilities were not well cared for upon my visit. The floors were very muddy and trash was piled up in the corner of one stall and out of necessities.

    Construction and dump truck noise started early with a project behind the restrooms.

    The visitor’s center was well-stocked and the employee was pleasant. Cell service is unavailable and even sketchy at the visitor’s center. Wood can be purchased at the visitor’s center.

    Close proximity to local attractions and a swimming pool are likely the big draw.

    Knowing that I prefer solitude and distance when camping, I’ll likely not return but choose nearby Lake Hope State Park for my local visits.

  • A
    Oct. 18, 2020

    Burr Oak State Park Campground

    Nice trails, not so nice campsites

    Most of the sites at this state park campground are very small and don’t have much level ground. Even the sites meant for RVs and trailers are right on top of each other. It’s almost like they took what should have been one site and made it two. There’s a handful of sites that offer a little space and level ground for tent campers. You may or may not have a picnic table and fire ring with a grill at your campsite when you arrive. According to staff, people take the fire rings and I guess there’s nothing they can do. Bathrooms were clean. The lake view trail was nice and accessible from the campground.

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2020

    A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    A Good Place to Meet is in the Middle

    A new site for us at this campground, site 59 which is an inside site. We also had friends who booked 2 inside sites very nearby so we were able to all set up in the middle and share a large space for 10 people and 7 dogs. We were able to be socially distant, have space for cornhole and lots of room for the dogs. Our site pad was pretty level. My husband went over the pad just a little onto the grass, as the other side sloped. So when we stepped out of the camp, we wouldn't be stepping down on a slope. This is one of the quietest campgrounds we go to even though there is plenty for kids to do (playground). Had the weather been better, we would have brought our kayaks for the lake. You have three different types of restrooms. The ones closest to use are the drop toilets, a little further is a porta potty and the furthest was the flush toilets (no showers). It's our little slice of heaven so we like to try a new site each time if we are able. We take our dogs with us so we have to be a little more picky so we don't bother anyone.

  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2019

    Zaleski State Forest

    Ranger Review: Banner & Oak Firebiner at Zaleski South Loop

    Campground Review: With a close friend coming to visit from Spain, I wanted to show her a cool backpacking location in Southeastern Ohio. Zaleski State Forest seemed like a good choice for a new backpacker. There are multiple loops to trek, averaging about 10 miles per loop. Overall the trails are well maintained (minus a few dense areas). There was almost an excessive amount of blazes. Campsites are plentiful along the trails. We stayed at Campsite C. Each site has access to communal well-water and a restroom. Each site usually has a small fire ring and logs to sit on. Overall, the campsites were pretty decent and secluded, but nothing special view wise aside from the typical Ohio forest. I would say pretty overall, but nothing quite outstanding.

    Product Review: The Banner & Oak Firebiner is a neat little tool that has some really fun features! Most notable being the fire starter. The Firebiner uses a small spark wheel and replaceable ferro rod to create sparks. The sparks are pretty large for the little tool. I now use my Firebiner to start my MSR stove quickly and with zero plastic waste! I haven’t used it to try to start a straight up fire, but friends have successfully before. Most importantly, the spark wheel is just darn right fun to play with. The device has other little uses like a bottle opener, utility blade, and screwdriver. I absolutely love this device! Only complaint would be that I wish it came in different colors, but who really cares.

    Here is a link to check out the Firebiner yourself: https://bannerandoak.com/products/banner-and-oak-firebiner?variant=9696793034788&currency=USD&gclid=CjwKCAjwnMTqBRAzEiwAEF3ndu9CmerLos5Y1yvjGHJ2L4FG732wg9bMpyPAJRa3m8dxlxffZ6Nt-RoC6LQQAvD_BwE

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2022

    Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    Beautiful scenery!

    General: 172-site state park with a mix of full hook-up, electric, and no hook-ups in separate areas plus a 33-site family hike-in camp, two group camps, and three cabins. All sites need to be reserved – no walk-ins are allowed. There is a beautiful visitor center, and the camp office has a small store as well. There is a very nice coin-operated laundry room. Don’t count on cell service– with a fleeting one bar of Verizon, it was just enough to tease us, but the break was also a welcome respite. 

    Site Quality: Standard issue for state parks with paved driveways, picnic table, and fire ring, however, there are a few things to note: Some sites are decidedly not level (#105 is very sloped). 103 and 101 meet at a V at the back end and this impedes the separation between the sites. Our site (103) had a drop-off between the driveway and the rest of the site that could pose a tripping hazard if you are not careful. All of the restrooms emit a hum, but the wastewater treatment facility is very loud and is located directly behind the first 9-10 full hook-up sites. 

    Bathhouse: The restrooms were clean, but the showers were just adequate (not the worst camp shower but definitely not the best I have experienced) but at least there was hot water. 

    Activities: We came for the hiking, and we were not disappointed. This park is gorgeous! We hiked the Blue trail (Grandma Gatewood Trail) to Cedar Falls, taking in Upper and Lower Falls, and Old Man’s Cave along the way, and returned via the Rim Trail, which was much easier (fewer roots and up and down). We received a color-coded map of the trails upon check-in but had difficulty deciphering it, especially the mileage. We went to the Camp Office before starting our hike to get clarity. Once on the trails, they were well-marked with either signs or blazes. While you could do a long hike (12 miles one-way) from one end of the park to the other), don’t miss Ash Cave – we drove there the next morning before leaving. There are also mountain biking trails, two playgrounds (the one more centrally located is a bit dated and does not look very safe but there is a newer, larger one at the very end of the road (near the lake trail) and there are also horseshoe pits and a volleyball net there. In season, there is a large swimming pool. 

    The campground itself gets 3 stars for some of its flaws but the scenery is so beautiful, 4 stars are merited, in my opinion. I would recommend reserving in one of the “spurs” as there would be less traffic.


Guide to Hamden

Tent camping in southeastern Ohio's Wayne National Forest and Zaleski State Forest regions centers around three main backpacking areas with established campsites. This section of Appalachian foothills features limestone rock formations, seasonal streams, and dense woodland characteristic of Ohio's unglaciated landscape. Most primitive camping options require proper water filtration equipment as potable water sources are limited to designated camping areas.

What to do

Biking access trails: Visit Benton's on the Baileys, located near the recently developed Baileys Trail System. "This campground is near the Baileys Bike System," notes Keith B. The trail network connects multiple camping areas and provides direct access to mountain biking routes.

Historic exploration: Take a short detour from the main camping loops to visit unusual sites. Campers at Zaleski State Forest recommend exploring nearby historic structures. "I highly recommend taking the short connector trail on the south loop to cut over to the Moonville Rail Trail. We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek," shares James W.

Off-highway vehicle routes: For motorized recreation, the Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area provides direct trail access. The area features multiple truck-accessible roads leading to primitive camping spots. Kevin C. notes: "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening. We slept soundly, made breakfast and were on our way."

What campers like

Seasonal water access: Many campers appreciate the reliable water sources at the backpacking camps, particularly during hot weather. "At each backpacking camp (3 in total) there is water and a toilet (nothing to wipe with) water is definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case," advises Lani R. about her experience at Zaleski.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests around Hamden support diverse wildlife populations easily observed from campsites. Leon H. reports: "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018."

Private camping areas: Baileys Trail Tent Camping offers more secluded options for tent campers seeking privacy. "Nice wide open space surrounded by woods. There were other campers but very friendly and had plenty of space to ourselves," writes Alex A. about his experience at this campground.

What you should know

Trail difficulty varies: Some backpacking routes near Hamden present moderate challenges with elevation changes. Kevin T. observes, "I'm a backpacker and this was tough. There is clear trails and a lot of rocks to climb on top of. The trial was about 19 miles and was definitely worth it."

Limited cell service: The rural location means connectivity is spotty throughout the camping areas. Prepare all navigation materials in advance. Lani R. advises: "NO SERVICE PLAN ACCORDING make sure you have a map especially to get out of the park!!!!"

Campsite competition: Popular camping areas fill quickly, particularly on weekends. Renée C. notes about her experience: "Campsites fill up quickly & areas will be shared. Not all have fire rings. Camp 2 is very popular since it is the halfway point(ish) on the trail."

Tick and poison ivy awareness: Several trails contain seasonal hazards requiring proper preparation. "Trails had lots of poison ivy & ticks present," warns Renée C. from her family backpacking trip at Zaleski.

Tips for camping with families

Appropriate age recommendations: The best tent camping near Hamden, Ohio can accommodate children of various ages with proper planning. "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," shares Renée C.

Shorter route options: For families with younger children, consider modified routes. Leon H. reports: "More recently, I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop," indicating that partial trail segments work well for family outings.

Local attractions: Lake Hope State Park provides additional day-use facilities worth visiting during family camping trips. "Take a day trip to one of the many sites to see in the region... 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," recommends Kasey K.

Tips from RVers

Site accessibility challenges: Most primitive camping areas near Hamden require walking to reach tent sites. Emily M. explains about her stay at Benton's on the Baileys: "You have to walk to the site, up a steep hill, but it is very private and quiet. The bathrooms are down the hill too, but very clean and private."

Overnight stopping points: Monday Creek OHV area serves well for brief RV stopovers. Kevin C. reports: "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty... Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus."

Supply logistics: Prepare by getting necessary supplies before reaching camp. For Zaleski campers, Kasey K. advises: "If you're looking for firewood there are plenty of private sellers off the back roads normall $5-$10 a small or large bundle, it's on the honor system so please pay them!!"

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hamden, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hamden, OH is Zaleski State Forest with a 4.4-star rating from 17 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Hamden, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near Hamden, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.