Best Tent Camping near Latham, OH

Tent camping options near Latham, Ohio include several established campgrounds within driving distance of town. Zaleski State Forest offers primitive tent sites with well-maintained trails and designated camping areas, while Waters Edge Canoe Livery provides tent camping with more amenities including drinking water, showers, and toilets. Lizzy's Acres offers a more secluded tent camping experience with only one site available.

Most tent sites in the Latham area feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Zaleski State Forest provides potable water at its three backpacking campsites, each equipped with vault toilets though campers should bring their own toilet paper. Fire rings are available at most locations, with firewood sold at Waters Edge Canoe Livery and Lizzy's Acres. Access varies significantly between locations - Zaleski requires hiking in to reach campsites while Waters Edge and Lizzy's Acres offer drive-in access. Seasonal considerations apply, with some campgrounds like Pine Knob Loop Campground only open from April through October.

The tent camping experience around Latham offers opportunities for solitude and outdoor recreation. Zaleski State Forest features multiple hiking loops averaging about 10 miles each, making it popular with backpackers seeking overnight trips. The terrain includes numerous hills with ridge views and valley trails through typical Ohio forest landscapes. Sites at Zaleski can fill quickly, especially at Camp 2 which serves as a midpoint on the trail system. According to reviews from The Dyrt, "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. And there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various trips accordingly." Campers frequently mention the well-maintained trails, potable water access, and relative seclusion as highlights of tent camping in this region.

Best Tent Sites Near Latham, Ohio (18)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Latham, OH

11 Photos of 18 Latham Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Latham, OH

595 Reviews of 18 Latham Campgrounds


  • Anna S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Scioto Trail State Park Campground

    Tent only sites - quiet, wooded

    I stayed in the non-electric, tent-only campground NOT the RV campground. Out of curiosity, I drove through the RV campground and it was so loud and cramped! But the tent-only area is separate. Walk-in sites with pit toilets and potable water. The map of how the sites are laid out online is extremely inaccurate, I would not have picked my site if it had been accurate. But there was only one other camper and we all had plenty of space - I could barely see them through the trees. All sites appeared to have a picnic table and fire ring. Many miles of trails / dirt roads for hiking and biking. Clear skies at night. Very relaxing.

  • Dave V.
    Oct. 31, 2019

    Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    Close proximity to natural attractions

    Hocking Hills State Park, Oh-Site 89. https://thehockinghills.org/

    Hocking Hills State Park offers close proximity to most of the popular natural attractions...Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, etc....but for a tent camper that prefers solitude and space, I found it unappealing.

    I did arrive late on a Monday evening, mid-October and got one of the last available sites. Packed on a Monday night!

    I found the camping sites a bit cramped both in depth and width. Site 89 and 90 shared the same parking pad. Limited flat locations existed for a tent and my tent footprint is fairly small. You do have a firepit and picnic table with all three in fairly close proximity, so you must be extremely cautious with wind direction when deciding for a fire, else you’ll have embers dotting your tent and picnic table. Even though the neighbors were trying to be respectfully quiet...you heard every conversation and saw their every move.

    No electric, which is fine in my book...the water spigot is centrally located on the loop and happened to be next to my site.

    The restroom/shower facilities were not well cared for upon my visit. The floors were very muddy and trash was piled up in the corner of one stall and out of necessities.

    Construction and dump truck noise started early with a project behind the restrooms.

    The visitor’s center was well-stocked and the employee was pleasant. Cell service is unavailable and even sketchy at the visitor’s center. Wood can be purchased at the visitor’s center.

    Close proximity to local attractions and a swimming pool are likely the big draw.

    Knowing that I prefer solitude and distance when camping, I’ll likely not return but choose nearby Lake Hope State Park for my local visits.

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2020

    A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    A Good Place to Meet is in the Middle

    A new site for us at this campground, site 59 which is an inside site. We also had friends who booked 2 inside sites very nearby so we were able to all set up in the middle and share a large space for 10 people and 7 dogs. We were able to be socially distant, have space for cornhole and lots of room for the dogs. Our site pad was pretty level. My husband went over the pad just a little onto the grass, as the other side sloped. So when we stepped out of the camp, we wouldn't be stepping down on a slope. This is one of the quietest campgrounds we go to even though there is plenty for kids to do (playground). Had the weather been better, we would have brought our kayaks for the lake. You have three different types of restrooms. The ones closest to use are the drop toilets, a little further is a porta potty and the furthest was the flush toilets (no showers). It's our little slice of heaven so we like to try a new site each time if we are able. We take our dogs with us so we have to be a little more picky so we don't bother anyone.

  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2019

    Zaleski State Forest

    Ranger Review: Banner & Oak Firebiner at Zaleski South Loop

    Campground Review: With a close friend coming to visit from Spain, I wanted to show her a cool backpacking location in Southeastern Ohio. Zaleski State Forest seemed like a good choice for a new backpacker. There are multiple loops to trek, averaging about 10 miles per loop. Overall the trails are well maintained (minus a few dense areas). There was almost an excessive amount of blazes. Campsites are plentiful along the trails. We stayed at Campsite C. Each site has access to communal well-water and a restroom. Each site usually has a small fire ring and logs to sit on. Overall, the campsites were pretty decent and secluded, but nothing special view wise aside from the typical Ohio forest. I would say pretty overall, but nothing quite outstanding.

    Product Review: The Banner & Oak Firebiner is a neat little tool that has some really fun features! Most notable being the fire starter. The Firebiner uses a small spark wheel and replaceable ferro rod to create sparks. The sparks are pretty large for the little tool. I now use my Firebiner to start my MSR stove quickly and with zero plastic waste! I haven’t used it to try to start a straight up fire, but friends have successfully before. Most importantly, the spark wheel is just darn right fun to play with. The device has other little uses like a bottle opener, utility blade, and screwdriver. I absolutely love this device! Only complaint would be that I wish it came in different colors, but who really cares.

    Here is a link to check out the Firebiner yourself: https://bannerandoak.com/products/banner-and-oak-firebiner?variant=9696793034788&currency=USD&gclid=CjwKCAjwnMTqBRAzEiwAEF3ndu9CmerLos5Y1yvjGHJ2L4FG732wg9bMpyPAJRa3m8dxlxffZ6Nt-RoC6LQQAvD_BwE

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2022

    Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    Beautiful scenery!

    General: 172-site state park with a mix of full hook-up, electric, and no hook-ups in separate areas plus a 33-site family hike-in camp, two group camps, and three cabins. All sites need to be reserved – no walk-ins are allowed. There is a beautiful visitor center, and the camp office has a small store as well. There is a very nice coin-operated laundry room. Don’t count on cell service– with a fleeting one bar of Verizon, it was just enough to tease us, but the break was also a welcome respite. 

    Site Quality: Standard issue for state parks with paved driveways, picnic table, and fire ring, however, there are a few things to note: Some sites are decidedly not level (#105 is very sloped). 103 and 101 meet at a V at the back end and this impedes the separation between the sites. Our site (103) had a drop-off between the driveway and the rest of the site that could pose a tripping hazard if you are not careful. All of the restrooms emit a hum, but the wastewater treatment facility is very loud and is located directly behind the first 9-10 full hook-up sites. 

    Bathhouse: The restrooms were clean, but the showers were just adequate (not the worst camp shower but definitely not the best I have experienced) but at least there was hot water. 

    Activities: We came for the hiking, and we were not disappointed. This park is gorgeous! We hiked the Blue trail (Grandma Gatewood Trail) to Cedar Falls, taking in Upper and Lower Falls, and Old Man’s Cave along the way, and returned via the Rim Trail, which was much easier (fewer roots and up and down). We received a color-coded map of the trails upon check-in but had difficulty deciphering it, especially the mileage. We went to the Camp Office before starting our hike to get clarity. Once on the trails, they were well-marked with either signs or blazes. While you could do a long hike (12 miles one-way) from one end of the park to the other), don’t miss Ash Cave – we drove there the next morning before leaving. There are also mountain biking trails, two playgrounds (the one more centrally located is a bit dated and does not look very safe but there is a newer, larger one at the very end of the road (near the lake trail) and there are also horseshoe pits and a volleyball net there. In season, there is a large swimming pool. 

    The campground itself gets 3 stars for some of its flaws but the scenery is so beautiful, 4 stars are merited, in my opinion. I would recommend reserving in one of the “spurs” as there would be less traffic.

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2020

    A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    Inside Campsite and Pleasantly Surprised on the Fourth of July!

    After staying one night in non-electric we were able to transfer to an electric site thanks to our great camp hosts. They let us know that one had opened and recommended us to call in the next morning. We were able to get an electric site that was on the inside, a site we would have never chosen otherwise as we have dogs and try to find a space with no one behind us. The site was actually really nice. There was grass and some partial shade. We had room for our ez-up tent, our pop-up bathroom and still room to set up our chairs and walk the dogs without bothering our neighbors. Our friends had the site next to us and they were able to use the trees to hang their hammocks. There was a nice fire ring and the pad was easy to level our a-frame camper. We had another set of neighbors who were in a class A motorhome (it was huge!). Everyone we talked to were very friendly. We were closer to the vault toilets (they were kept clean) and the playground. It was Fourth of July weekend and the campground was really quiet. If you have kayaks, you can drive them down the hill next to the campground to get into the lake. If you like to hike or mountain bike there are trails to use as well.

  • S
    Jun. 17, 2016

    Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    Walk-In Primitive Family Campground

    Walk-in campground provides a nice amount of quiet for the price of carting your gear in (up to a .6 mile, depending on site chosen). Several sites are somewhat hidden from the path while others have little-to-no privacy from your fellow campers . Pit toilets are adequate. Water pump located in the parking lot along with access to biking trails. All sites include picnic table and fire ring.

  • Frank H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2021

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Nice campground

    This was the last campground before returning home from a month long camping road trip across the country and back. Picturesque camp directly on the Ohio River. Very level. Small campground with about 40 sites. Basically all sites are for RVs and equipped with electrical and water and most with sewer. We were tent camping and set up and a very soft & thick grassy space on one of the empty sites. The owners plan to install dedicated tent sites along the edge of the woods. There is a camp store with most needed items. Ice and firewood sold. Very spacious and individual toilet and shower & sink rooms. Good showers with plenty of hot water. Playground for children. Volleyball for anyone. Dumpster for trash. Great people. Easy to make reservations.

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2020

    A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    Hot hot hot! So we kayaked!

    Site 32 - A new site for us at this campground. We had shade in the morning but lots of sun in the afternoon. This site is on the outside and backs up to trees. There is lots grass and space - good for us to walk the dogs and not have them pee and poop where we were sitting. Bathrooms were cleaned regularly and they have flush, vault and portable toilets. There are no showers. This was our first time to kayak which you can launch right near the campground. It’s a little mucky at the bottom of the hill but if you take the path off to the right there is a small beach which is much easier to launch from. There is a small island that has two spots you can stop on and then swim. Lots of birds to see and plenty of other kayakers and fisherman. They are now selling wood and ice at the campground but the store is still closed. A gas station is right down the road in case you forget anything.


Guide to Latham

Tent camping options in the Latham, Ohio area exist within the Appalachian foothills region, where elevations range from 600 to 1,000 feet. The hilly terrain creates a diverse landscape with numerous small streams and forested valleys. Most campgrounds remain accessible from April through October, with summer humidity often exceeding 80% and occasional afternoon thunderstorms being common during peak camping season.

What to do

Night hiking opportunities: At Zaleski State Forest, trails remain accessible after dark for stargazing and nocturnal wildlife observation. Camper Leon H. notes, "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018."

Water activities: Visitors at Waters Edge Canoe Livery can rent kayaks or canoes for creek exploration. Jonathan W. reports, "Very fun place to camp and enjoy the creek on a kayak or canoe. Very friendly staff, and one of my favorite places to go."

Rock exploration: The region features numerous sandstone formations and outcroppings, particularly along ridgelines. According to Renée C., "The hike was great. Lots of ups & downs, a pond & beautiful rock outcroppings."

Historical site visits: The Moonville Tunnel, a remnant of the region's mining past, sits near several camping areas. Leon H. recommends, "Moonville Tunnel is close and is a great bookend before or after your hike."

Sunday brunch: After completing a weekend of tent camping near Latham, consider visiting local dining options. "Treat yourself to a post hike meal at the Lake Hope Dining Lodge, Sunday brunch is awesome," suggests Leon H.

What campers like

Solitude on trails: Despite popular campsites, the trail systems often remain uncrowded. Bryn S. shares about Zaleski: "Rarely have I seen other hikers on the same trails but we always meet people at camp."

Accessible backpacking: Pine Knob Loop Campground offers entry-level backpacking opportunities. Carri D. mentions, "We hiked in at this point near Lake Vesuvius in the Wayne National Forest. Found a secluded spot up the trail. Lots of fun and a good hike- easy enough for an 8 year old!"

Diverse terrain: The region offers varied landscapes within relatively short distances. Nick M. states about his experience: "Backpacked there for 3 days/2 nights. Good trail and campsites had water, but it can get a little humid and buggy there."

Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer separated sites to maintain a wilderness feel. "All of the campsites have multiple areas for different hikers and each is relatively secluded from the others so you can be by yourself," reports Bryn S.

Reliable water sources: Consistent access to drinking water remains important for campers in this region. Justin S. notes, "The park has beautiful water and forests. The trails criss-cross logging roads a lot but we didn't see any logging/vehicle traffic."

What you should know

Trail marking systems: Different colors indicate main routes versus side trails. Renée C. explains: "Blazes: The main trail is blazed orange and camp side trail/day hike cutoff is blazed white."

Site competition: Lizzy's Acres offers just one site, while other campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "Camp 2 is very popular since it is the halfway point(ish) on the trail. Camp 1 is only a couple miles into the loop," notes Renée C.

Parking limitations: Arrive early to secure parking at trailheads. "Both parking lots seemed to fill up fast. The Hope Furnace parking was full by 8:30/9 am on the Saturday we arrived," warns Renée C.

Cell service gaps: Many areas lack reliable phone coverage. Matt S. advises: "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."

Map requirements: Navigation can be challenging without proper planning. Renée C. cautions, "NO SERVICE PLAN ACCORDING make sure you have a map especially to get out of the park!"

Seasonal concerns: Insect activity increases during summer months. "Trails had lots of poison ivy & ticks present," warns Renée C.

Tips for camping with families

Choose appropriate loops: Trothwood Forest and other sites offer varying difficulty levels suitable for different ages. Leon H. shares, "More recently, I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop."

Plan shorter first-day hikes: Camp 1 at many locations can be reached with minimal hiking. "Camp 1 is only a couple miles into the loop. Great place to stop for lunch," suggests Renée C.

Select prime campsites: Arrive early for better site selection, especially with children. "Get there early and get to the campsites first, there are decidedly better sites in each camp," advises Leon H.

Bring toilet paper: Facilities don't always supply essentials. Lani R. notes, "at each backpacking camp (3 in total) there is water and a toilet (nothing to wipe with)."

Consider water taste: Natural water sources may require filtration for children's preferences. "Water is definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case," mentions Lani R.

Tips from RVers

Alternative accommodations: SaltCreek Retreats offers cabins and glamping options for those seeking comfort while tent campers explore more rustic sites.

Supply runs: Limited on-site provisions mean planning ahead for essentials. Kasey K. shares, "We went into the little town of Zaleski which is about 4 small roads with a local bar, very basic bar caned beer and about 5 liquor choices."

Firewood sourcing: Local vendors provide firewood on honor system. "If you're looking for firewood there are plenty of private sellers off the back roads normally $5-$10 a small or large bundle, it's on the honor system so please pay them!" advises Kasey K.

Ice availability: Some campgrounds offer limited supplies. "When they did open we registered and were all set, they offer bags of ice for sale as well," notes Kasey K.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Latham, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Latham, OH is Lizzy’s Acres with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Latham, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Latham, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.