Hocking Hills offers extensive primitive camping options beyond standard sites, with access to hiking trails throughout southeastern Ohio's forested terrain. Located within the Appalachian foothills at elevations ranging from 600-1000 feet, the area features both developed campgrounds and backcountry sites. Winter camping remains available at select locations, with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby metropolitan areas.
What to do
Hiking access from campsites: Near Hocking Hills State Park Campground, trails connect directly to major attractions. "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Man's Cave," notes camper Elana C. Many sites provide direct trail access without requiring vehicle transportation.
Water activities: The region's lakes and rivers support multiple water-based activities. At Campbell Cove Camping, "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," shares Ann H. Most waterfront campgrounds rent equipment onsite, eliminating the need to transport your own boats.
Night activities: Several campgrounds offer unique evening experiences. "I went on the torch light canoe trip on 8/18/18. The basic set-up is a standard canoe with a tiki torch in the back of it. You set off at 7:30-8pm," explains Betsy B. about Hocking Hills Canoe Livery. After nighttime activities, many campgrounds provide communal areas with fire pits and organized gatherings.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Campers appreciate direct water access at several locations. At Hocking River RV Park, "Right on the river, which is interesting... The sites are right on the Hocking river, and there is constant traffic of canoes and kayaks going past. I thought this was fun," explains Megan M. Most waterfront sites fill quickly during summer months.
Privacy options: While many campgrounds feature close sites, private options exist. At Big Sycamore Family Campground, "The owners here are really great. Small campground and kind of close to the highway, but the sites are a good size, mostly shaded," reports Chris W. Campers seeking privacy should request outer loop sites or those backed by forest.
Proximity to attractions: Convenient locations make exploration easier. "Not crowded so plenty of space. Accommodating owners. Grassy shaded spots. Swimming pool. A few seasonal campers," notes Sharon D. about Big Sycamore Family Campground. Most campgrounds lie within 15-20 minutes of major hiking attractions.
What you should know
Site limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging sites requiring preparation. At A.W. Marion State Park Campground, "A.W. Marion is nice and quiet. It's fairly small, and some of the spots looked challenging to back into, including the one I chose," explains Aaron S. Research specific site dimensions before booking, especially for larger setups.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Shower house had good pressure and hot water in mens bathhouse 1 but womens had low pressure, bath house 2 had low to no pressure at times, but were very clean and nice," reports Tamara W. about Hocking River RV Park. Most primitive sites include vault toilets rather than full facilities.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds experience road noise. "It's also right alongside State Route 33, so you hear freeway traffic constantly. Trucks and motorcycles woke me up all night," shares Megan M. about Hocking River RV Park. Request interior sites away from roadways when making reservations if noise sensitivity is a concern.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Certain campgrounds offer specific family amenities. At Campbell Cove Camping, "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. Most family-oriented campgrounds include playground equipment and shallow swimming areas.
Space for activities: Family groups need adequate room for setup. "Big enough for a pop up. Water filling and black water dump. Electric. Close to river," reports Brad B. about Hocking River RV Park regarding site size. Families should book adjacent sites when traveling with multiple tents or setups.
Entertainment options: Beyond outdoor activities, some campgrounds provide additional entertainment. At Lake Hope State Park Campground, "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!" exclaims Chris C. Many dog friendly campgrounds near Geneva offer ranger programs specifically designed for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: The hilly terrain creates leveling issues at many sites. Daniel notes at Lake Hope State Park Campground, "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." Bring extra leveling blocks for most regional campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't universal in the region. "We stayed for a long weekend and had a great time. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The RV sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded," reports Kevin F. about Lake Hope State Park Campground. RVers seeking pet-friendly campgrounds should specifically request sites with appropriate hookups.
Maneuverability concerns: Some campgrounds have navigation challenges. At Hocking Hills KOA Holiday, "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. Most dog-accommodating campgrounds near Geneva require careful navigation on narrow access roads.
