Seasonal glamping close to Hamden, Ohio offers diverse accommodation options in the Appalachian foothills where elevations range between 700-1000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with colorful fall foliage from late September through October, while summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop into the 20s, especially at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Hummingbird watching: Visit Lake Hope State Park in early summer for unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "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!" notes Chris C.
Boat rentals: Lake Hope State Park Campground offers affordable water recreation with multiple rental options. "We would usually snatch up site 98 or 99...or both. No one would usually go that deep into the park. It was private...pit latrine nearby...flat and airy. Foot trails were nearby and the bike trail wasn't too far away," reports Dave V.
Trail exploration: Explore the interconnected trail systems between parks. "Lake Hope gave me a new way to experience an area I grew very close to and appreciate but cannot stand the swarms of people. We were in Wayne National Forest and right next to the infamous Moonville tunnel," shares Lori L.
Disc golf: Forked Run State Park Campground offers a complete course among wooded terrain. "Rural area. Lake. Disc golf. Fishing. Swimming. Hiking. I would go camping here again," reports Benjamin C. The course winds through forested areas with moderate elevation changes.
What campers like
Private tent areas: Find secluded spots at Tar Hollow State Park Campground, where the North Ridge area provides separation from RV campers. "The north ridge campground is in an entirely separate area of the park than the RVs and there aren't many campsites, so in that way it feels a little more remote and secluded," explains Sydney.
Winter glamping: Cold-weather luxury camping options exist for off-season visitors. "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. We hope to come back and back pack one of the trails," shares Kenpocentaur K. from Burr Oak.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds in the region offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. "This campground offers awesome views for the sunsets/sunrises, trails on the property that leads to beautiful scenery in the heart of hocking hills. Plenty of wildlife to see. This place brings you back to your roots of nature," notes Cat from Top O' The Caves.
Cell service breaks: Most glamping locations near Hamden have limited connectivity. "There is no cell service. Enjoy the outdoors! You are off the grid!" points out Sydney from Tar Hollow, highlighting the digital detox aspect many campers appreciate.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and cleanliness of facilities differs significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are pit latrines. Normally, I wouldn't be too concerned about this (you're camping! it's cool to rough it a bit!) However…these are some of the dirtiest I've experienced," reports Sydney from Tar Hollow.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require equipment for leveling. "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," warns Daniel from Lake Hope.
Seasonal water issues: Strouds Run State Park Campground visitors should know about water quality concerns. "The lake and the beach are very nice! Sometimes the water isn't very clean. Often times the beach is littered with goose droppings," notes Lucille W.
Limited supplies: Most glamping areas have minimal shopping options. "Not much nearby in the way of supplies," warns Leon H. from Burr Oak, suggesting campers bring everything they need.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "There is a nice sized sand ground play set with swings and 2 slides, an air pillow (blob) putt putt, a trail to the lake, a dog run, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room and very pleasant staff," reports Mitchell C.
Group camping areas: Some campgrounds offer designated spaces for larger family gatherings. "This was such a great place to book a group site. The shelter was perfect for group lunch/dinner area and a nice place to put gear that we didn't want to get wet. The site is far away from other campers and so peaceful," shares Renée C. from Tar Hollow.
Beach alternatives: For families with children who want water play without crowds, consider less-known locations. "The lake has a sand beach and designated swim area. It is blocked off from the rest of the lake by a wooden dock from which you are able to shallow dive (it's only seven or eight feet deep)," explains Jonathan W. about Tar Hollow.
Off-peak timing: Visit Hocking Hills KOA Holiday during weekdays for a quieter experience. "From primitive tent sites tucked back in the woods to large RV sites with water/sewer/electric/cable hookups," notes Vicki H., describing the range of accommodations available.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific site numbers before booking. "The RV sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded. We took a couple of the hikes down by the lake and it was great," advises Kevin F. from Lake Hope.
Access limitations: Approach some campgrounds carefully with larger rigs. "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township, so its completely out of their ability to make improvements," explains Vicki H. from Hocking Hills KOA.
Seasonal closures: Verify amenities are open during your planned visit. "The pool was not open and looked like it hadn't been in some time (even though when we called they said they were opening it right then)," reports Kathy B. from Top O' The Caves, showing the importance of double-checking seasonal feature availability.
Power considerations: Confirm electrical service meets your needs. "We have stayed here a couple of times in a tent and a class a motor home. While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain," shares Marshall P. from Lake Hope.
