Equestrian camping near Kingston, Ohio offers direct access to extensive bridle trail networks throughout the Hocking Hills region. The area sits within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for riders and hikers alike. Most equestrian campgrounds operate from March through November, with peak season bringing higher occupancy rates during summer and fall color seasons.
What to do
Trail riding to Airplane Rock: Access scenic overlooks via bridle trails at Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground. "The horseback riding is awesome, airplane rock has a view second to none. the box canyon with waterfall is gorgeous (pun intended) but seriously it was fantastic," shares Timothy M.
Explore Moonville Tunnel: Connect to the Moonville Rail Trail from the backpacking loops in Zaleski State Forest. According to James W., "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."
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at many small lakes throughout the region. Buck B. says of Pike Lake State Park Campground, "Love this spot, very secluded and quiet... nice little lake to fish or kayak."
What campers like
Private shower facilities: Individual shower rooms provide privacy at newer campgrounds. Angie F. notes about Palmerosa, "The property reflects great pride and financial investment: nicely-appointed and immaculate bathroom facilities; well-spaced campsites; classy equine stalls; and accommodating service second to none."
Secluded tent sites: Find more privacy at tent-specific areas. At Lake Hope State Park Campground, Anne P. reports, "I'm a tent camper and a hiker, but my family and I even spent some time at the lake and rented a paddle board and a water bike which was so much fun!"
Trail variety: Multiple hiking options with varying difficulty levels serve all skill sets. Dave V. appreciates Lake Hope: "Trails are superb...tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn. The terrain is undulating but very doable."
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain that can be challenging. Daniel from Burr Oak State Park Campground notes, "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."
Water access planning: Know which sites provide direct trail access versus requiring road travel. As Diana M. observed of Palmerosa (before renovations), "3/4 mile from trails, had to ride along very narrow road."
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities close during winter months. Doug H. reports about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter."
Cell service gaps: Coverage varies significantly by location. Kate W. mentions at Hocking Hills, "The rangers and naturalists have many activities going on and are very knowledgeable. Portable water is available at the parking lot only."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near recreation areas for children. Shannon G. writes about Pike Lake State Park, "Site 57 - this site backs up to the ravine and is nice and large. It has a lot of shade and grass. We were able to run a line between trees for a dog run. Great neighbors on both sides but right across the site is the playground."
Child-friendly trails: Choose shorter loops for younger children. Laura C. notes about Hocking Hills: "The hocking hills park itself is awesome. Great trails, beautiful waterfalls, wonderous caves. They are all pretty short hikes and easy access. We enjoyed it with our large breed dog and toddler."
Pack-in equipment: Many remote sites require carrying gear significant distances. Amanda P. warns, "Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! All in all we had a blast and a good laugh about our trek with all our stuff!!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Reserve specific sites when possible for most level options. Meghan H. shares about Hocking Hills: "Reservations only, most sites are level and spacious. There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)."
Water and power availability: Check ahead for utility access as it varies widely. Kevin F. mentions, "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."
Drainage concerns: Be prepared for poor drainage during rainy periods. Bob M. warns, "We enjoyed our stay here. Just an fyi to others- it rained quite a bit and many of the sites got flooded. The ground here doesn't drain well."
