Wayne National Forest provides varied tent camping opportunities near New Lexington, Ohio, with sites ranging from 15 to 35 miles from town. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 700-1,000 feet and a mixed hardwood forest ecosystem. Seasonal considerations are important as sites typically open from April through November, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Motorcycle trails access: At Pops Place Camping, campers use the location as a base for exploring scenic roads. One visitor noted, "This is an ideal base camp for riding your motorcycle on the scenic roads in that area of Ohio such as the triple nickel."
Basketball for kids: Some campgrounds offer unexpected recreational amenities. A Pops Place camper mentioned, "There is a basketball backboard near the current cabin if you happen to bring a basketball for your kids to use."
Mountain biking: The Baileys Trail Tent Camping area provides direct access to the Baileys Trail System. Campers appreciate the proximity to these trails, making it convenient for mountain bikers who want to maximize their riding time.
Hiking variety: Zaleski State Forest offers multiple trail loops with varying difficulty. A visitor explained, "The trail is diverse and great for beginners and experienced hikers. The campsites have privies, spigots for water, and a lot of different sites for different sized groups."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the unexpectedly clean amenities at primitive sites. At Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, a visitor reported, "Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus."
Privacy levels: Campers appreciate the seclusion at certain sites. At Benton's on the Baileys, a reviewer wrote, "Excellent campground that is tucked out of the way. You have to walk to the site, up a steep hill, but it is very private and quiet."
Reliable cell service: Contrary to expectations, some remote areas maintain good connectivity. A Pops Place camper noted, "There is good verizon cell service there, I did not expect it because of the location and hills in the area."
Cost value: Many tent sites in the region are free or low-cost. At Pops Place Camping, a visitor mentioned that "as of that date the rustic tent camping was $20," providing an affordable option for overnight stays.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some camping areas require specific approaches. At Old Stone Church Campground, a camper explained, "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
Water sources: Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. A Zaleski visitor advised, "Not supposed to filter the water in the creeks. Thankfully there is pretty tasty water at camp."
Reservation systems: Many sites operate on different booking procedures. 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."
Weather impacts: Trail and road conditions depend heavily on recent weather. After rain, access roads can become challenging, particularly at dispersed sites where drainage may be limited.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate trails: When tent camping near New Lexington with children, choose trails matching their experience level. At Zaleski, a camper shared, "I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop," noting it works well for various ages.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area offers chances to see local fauna. A Zaleski camper reported, "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp."
Playground access: Geneva Hills Camp offers amenities beyond basic camping. Pops Place Camping also features a playground in their common area, making it suitable for families with younger children.
Hammock options: For families with teens who prefer hammocks, Pops Place offers suitable trees. A visitor noted, "I don't hammock camp, but it looked like there were trees far enough apart in the line of pines for hanging 2 hammocks."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Some sites accommodate smaller RVs despite being primarily designated for other purposes. At Old Stone Church Campground, a camper explained, "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed."
Electric access: Limited electrical options exist at certain campgrounds. At Pops Place, one visitor mentioned, "If you are tent camping and need to charge your phone he has no problem with you using the electric outlet at the RV site if no one is there."
Gravel pad quality: Road and pad surfaces impact accessibility for different vehicles. A Pops Place reviewer noted the "campground drive is decent gravel for street bikes," indicating it works for various vehicle types.
Site selection timing: Arrive early for the best spots at popular locations. As one Zaleski camper advised, "Get there early and get to the campsites first, there are decidedly better sites in each camp."
