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.