The 1,310-acre Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area stretches across eastern Ohio's Wayne National Forest, offering several campground options within a 30-minute drive from Hanging Rock. Campgrounds range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with water, electric, and sewer hookups. The area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F, with winter lows frequently dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Boating opportunities: Lake Vesuvius permits small fishing boats with electric motors only. At Ashland Huntington West KOA, located 25 minutes from Hanging Rock, visitors can arrange equipment rentals for nearby lakes. "There's a swimming pond with inflatables, gem mining, banana bikes, and more," notes Zach H. about the family-friendly activities.
Seasonal events: Halloween weekend at Shawnee State Park Campground features special activities for campers. "We were there on their Halloween weekend, with a fun site-decorating contest and trick or treat in the afternoon," explains Megan M. The park also offers outdoor movie nights during summer months on their outdoor screen.
Geocaching adventures: Several campgrounds maintain geocaching points throughout their properties. "They showed a movie at 9pm on a big inflatable movie screen outside. Lots of other families there to hang out with," mentions Zach H. about evening entertainment options at Huntington KOA.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the forest setting at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius, where sites are situated among trees. "Most of the sites shaded and separated by trees. Love the privacy this provides. Our favorite 'close to home campground'!" writes Chris S. about the natural spacing between camping spots.
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness ranks high in camper priorities. "Site was very well kept and clean but could use some privacy from the roadway," notes Amanda S. about her experience at Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground.
Tent-specific areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated tent camping areas with unique features. "There are some secluded sites back in the woods, so you don't feel like you are camping in a parking lot in a few places. NOTE that most of these secluded sites (along the back edge of the campground) are up a flight of stairs," explains Megan M. about Shawnee State Park.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: When booking at Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground, note that utility hookups may require additional equipment. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites," advises Ron & Bonnie D.
Cell service limitations: Some areas have limited or no cell phone coverage. "There is absolutely no cell service in the Campground. The lodge at the top of the hill has a weak signal, but is better than nothing if you really need to check in with outside world," cautions Carrie S.
Water pressure issues: Some sites at Lake Vesuvius may have unexpected plumbing concerns. "Beautiful place to camp. Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others. We stayed at site 6 which wasn't too difficult to park but the water pressure was extremely high," warns Wendi L.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Families appreciate campgrounds with dedicated recreation options. At Huntington / Fox Fire KOA, "They had so much for kids to do: a swimming pond with inflatables, gem mining, banana bikes, and more. They showed a movie at 9pm on a big inflatable movie screen outside," says Zach H.
Yurt camping options: For families interested in yurt camping near Hanging Rock, Ohio, several campgrounds offer these structures as alternatives to traditional tent or RV camping. These circular canvas and wood structures provide comfortable accommodations with beds and electricity.
Playground accessibility: Campgrounds often feature playground equipment for younger children. "Loved the fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites. Camp store had lots of food options and coffee," mentions Brooke V. about her family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Site length accuracy: When reserving an RV spot, verify the actual dimensions. "We were told that the site we'd been assigned was room enough for 52'. Our RV is only 34' so that would be more than enough. We got there and it was maybe 20-24" in length," shares Carrie S. about her experience at Shawnee State Park.
Water and electric hookups: At Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius, RV sites include basic amenities. "Paved, well maintained sites but a bit close together. Don't expect privacy if it's booked. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and water & electric hookups," notes MiKayla M.
Weather considerations: Rain can impact site conditions at some campgrounds. "Sadly, it was raining the entire time we were at this site. However, the campground was very nice! It was quaint and quiet. Nice view and close to the lake as well!" shares Rebecca A. about her Oak Hill experience despite challenging weather.
