Tent camping near Logan, Ohio offers numerous primitive and backcountry options within the Wayne National Forest and surrounding woodlands. The region sits within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau, creating a landscape of steep ravines and ridgetops with elevation changes averaging 300-600 feet across hiking routes. Winter camping is possible but challenging, with December-February temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F and occasional snowfall creating muddy conditions on forest access roads.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking trails: Access the growing Baileys Trail System from Baileys Trail Tent Camping, a small campground close to numerous trailheads. "Great for that 'far out' feel just outside of town," notes camper Steven S., who spent multiple months at this location.
Motorcycle touring: Use Pops Place Camping as a base for exploring scenic byways. "This is an ideal base camp for riding your motorcycle on the scenic roads in that area of Ohio such as the triple nickel," shares David M. The campground sits on a paved road with "decent gravel for street bikes" at the entrance.
Basketball and yard games: Some campgrounds offer recreation amenities beyond hiking. Pops Place includes "a basketball backboard near the current cabin if you happen to bring a basketball for your kids to use" along with "wood lounge chairs, common fire ring, playground, and cornhole boards."
What campers like
Accessible clean facilities: Monday Creek OHV Dispersed camping provides unexpected amenities for a free site. "Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," writes Kevin C., who camped "at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot" and found it to be "a great stop over location."
Private tent sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion available at Benton's on the Baileys. "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," reports Emily M., who also noted "the bathrooms are down the hill too, but very clean and private."
Water availability: While some primitive sites require carrying water, established campgrounds typically provide reliable sources. At one site, a camper mentioned, "You can get drinking water" from "a spigot on the outside of the shower house." Another camper at a different location noted the water was "definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case."
What you should know
Cell service varies: Despite the remote setting, connectivity exists in unexpected places. At Pops Place, one camper reported "good Verizon cell service there, I did not expect it because of the location and hills in the area." Others recommend downloading maps beforehand, as service becomes unreliable on many forest roads.
Fire regulations: Most established campgrounds permit fires in designated rings, but rules differ at dispersed sites. Old Stone Church Trailhead allows fires, though you must bring your own firewood or purchase it locally. Check seasonal restrictions, especially during dry summer months.
Camping fees structure: Costs vary widely across the region. Monday Creek OHV offers free dispersed camping, while Old Stone Church Campground uses a $15 honor system payment. "If you have a National Park's Golden Age or Access pass, they honor a 50 percent discount," notes one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Several campgrounds provide access to moderate hiking suitable for children. Geneva Hills received positive feedback from families, with one camper noting it was "a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp" while offering on-site activities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting local wildlife near camp. At Zaleski State Forest, Leon H. reports, "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018."
Water testing considerations: Campgrounds with well water might require filtration for children. One camper advised that at certain sites "water is definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case" despite being technically potable.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Limited pull-through sites exist at select forest campgrounds. At Old Stone Church Campground, Tammy F. found "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)."
Alternative parking options: When official campgrounds fill up, RVers have found alternatives. "A short distance further down the road, just after it turns to gravel, at the Old Stone Church trailhead, there are grassy places to back in smaller campers/RVs," reports one camper who explored the area.
Seasonal road conditions: Forest service roads deteriorate after heavy rain, particularly in spring. Multiple reviewers mention potential mud and accessibility issues for vehicles without adequate clearance, recommending calling ranger stations for current conditions before travel.
