Campers seeking a campsite near Logan, Ohio, find themselves at elevations between 800-1,000 feet in the Allegheny Plateau's western edge. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night. Cell service throughout the area remains inconsistent, with reception strongest at higher elevations and virtually nonexistent in many valleys and gorge areas.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Logan: Campbell Cove Camping provides direct lake access for water activities. "Our site was waterfront and also set away from other sites. We had a great time here and it felt like we were in the woods but there was a business district about 3 mins away which was really convenient. Lake Logan was spectacular," notes one camper at Campbell Cove Camping.
Fishing opportunities: Several camping locations offer fishing access with varying conditions. At Hocking River RV Park, one visitor notes, "Fishing is ok but the banks of the river are high." The park provides electric hookup sites along the Hocking River where anglers can cast directly from their campsites.
Hiking to Moonville Tunnel: A historical attraction near Lake Hope State Park Campground draws history enthusiasts. "The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike. Unfortunately, it is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers...still cool nonetheless," explains a camper. The abandoned railway tunnel dates back to the 1800s and sits along a converted rail-trail.
Hummingbird viewing: Nature programs at Lake Hope include unique wildlife opportunities. "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. They pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!" describes one visitor.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Many campers appreciate locations that balance natural settings with convenience. At Hocking Hills KOA Holiday, a visitor notes, "Close to Hocking Hills. This campground was also located close (within a few miles) to all the main hiking trails, and about 12 miles from Logan."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality receives consistent mention in reviews. One camper at Big Sycamore Family Campground writes, "Bathrooms were clean with individual showers. The shower house and bathrooms were clean and nice."
Waterfront sites: Lake and river proximity enhances camping experiences. As one visitor at Hocking Hills Camping & Canoe observes, "Really enjoy this spot. Been to it a couple times now. Primitive camping and you can pick a spot right on the river. We were able to walk down from the site and swim."
Alternative to crowds: Campers frequently mention seeking less populated alternatives. "Lake Hope gave me a new way to experience an area I grew very close to and appreciate but cannot stand the swarms of people. It was a great quiet and spacious campground with solid amenities and it's own nearby sites."
What you should know
Weather challenges: Flash floods and storms affect camping conditions, particularly for tent campers. One camper at Hocking Hills KOA shared, "Had reserved two tent sites... On Friday the weather was to be awful. Forecast calling for 3-4" of rain. Flash flood watches for entire area."
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds vary significantly in quality. The road to Hocking Hills KOA "is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township, so its completely out of their ability to make improvements," explains a reviewer.
Tent site variations: Tent camping areas differ substantially between campgrounds. At Top O' The Caves Campground, a visitor observed, "If you want shade, these are the spots to be, all other primitive sites are really out in the open with little cover. Beware of parking down there if its raining or you expect rain."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally, with varied opening dates. Campbell Cove operates May 1 to October 15, while Hocking Hills KOA Holiday runs from April 1 to November 1. However, Lake Hope and Burr Oak State Parks maintain year-round operations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer better facilities for children. At Campbell Cove, a camper reports, "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole. The bathrooms are so clean. You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals."
Site spacing: Family groups should consider campground layout when booking. "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike. Not good with kids," notes one visitor at Hocking Hills State Park.
Water activities: Families often seek campgrounds with swimming options. At Burr Oak State Park, campers mention, "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach."
Bath facilities: With children, bathroom proximity and cleanliness matter significantly. A visitor at Top O' The Caves observed, "The restrooms were rather large and worked fine. As well as the showers. There are also a few nice looking cabins!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain present leveling challenges. A Lake Hope camper noted, "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. Site around is sloped in all directions."
Space limitations: RV sites vary significantly in size between campgrounds. At Campbell Cove, "The RV site was rather small without much personal space. But it worked for what they needed," explains one visitor comparing tent and RV accommodations.
Utility availability: Hookup options differ across campgrounds. Big Sycamore Family Campground offers "Some sites are full hook up, some sites are electric and water, and some are primitive. The dump station is easily accessible if you need it."
Winter accessibility: For off-season camping, options are limited. "This is also close enough in proximity to serve as an alternative camping area for visiting Hocking Hills," says a Lake Hope visitor, noting its year-round availability while many nearby campgrounds close for winter.
