12 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Zaleski State Forest offers primitive backcountry camping with access to a dedicated horse camp in southeastern Ohio near Long Bottom. Located within Wayne National Forest, the site provides access to bridle trails where riders often encounter moderate terrain. The trails cross logging roads at various points but feature minimal vehicle traffic, creating a calm riding environment. Toilet facilities are available at the horse camp, but riders must bring their own water for horses as potable water options are limited to certain areas. The campground trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, making this location suitable for both novice and experienced trail riders. Campground data and reviews near Long Bottom, Ohio is regularly updated on The Dyrt.
Kinderhook Horse Trail connects directly to several miles of forest riding paths with parking areas designed to accommodate horse trailers. Toilet facilities are available, though no drinking water is provided at the trailhead. The sites maintain a natural forest setting with minimal development, allowing for an authentic outdoor experience. Mountwood Park in nearby West Virginia supplements the local options with family camping facilities where riders can access additional trails. Most campsites throughout the region require no advance reservations during off-peak seasons, operating on a first-come basis with self-pay stations. The trails offer varying difficulty levels with some crossing small streams, providing natural water access for horses during rides. Many trails feature interconnected loops allowing riders to customize route length based on experience level and time constraints.
"There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."
"If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."
from $20 - $70 / night
Check Availability"The go to camping location for Athens. Many campsites, trails, and amenities. Anything from boat rentals, a small store, and docks to use near the lake."
"Sites are only rented in person once you arrive, they have clear instructions at the entrance. Sites were nice and level, but a bit on the smaller side. Plenty of trails for hiking around the park."
"The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike. There is a bathroom across the road and access to water at the entrance of the site. Showers are 15 minutes walk or a quick drive away."
"Wayne National Forest shares the area with Burr Oak State Park near Glouster, Oh. Wayne National Forest is split into three areas in southeastern Ohio."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave...but..."
"At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways rather if it’s by tent (the way I prefer) or by camper. It’s a very nice place to have some family fun. Very nice beach and swimming area."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Zaleski State Forest is adjacent to Lake Hope State Park. Off Rt 278 near Zaleski, Oh, true Ohio countryside to enjoy on the way in. Signal is spotty."
"Much of Ohio is flat corn land, so Zaleski is a special place in Ohio. The trail swings close to some homes, which is less remote than out west where I live now, but overall it's nice."
from $30 - $35 / night
from $30 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Parking for regular cars is 100 yards before restroom (the others are for horse trailers only). Close to the restroom there’s a picnic table, tentspots and a manual water pump."
"Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road.Can camp here in certain spots. Not much area to camp. No fire rings, one picnic table."
"The second night we only had one tent near us. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
"OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season. Nice place."
"Stayed: 9/6/2020 - FREE Site: Left fire pit facing toilet
This campground is the equestrian Kinderhook Trailhead within Wayne National Forest."
"This is a horse trail camp. There is a vault toilet,a few trash cans,a water spigot and plenty of room for horse trailers. There are some trails you can walk or ride on."
TravelerGreat view of the sky for stargazing and telescopes at the sites in 40s. Trails are a little neglected though; lots of downed trees and faded blazes. Maybe it’s late in the season, and they will improve in the spring.
RangerSites are small - especially the ones with power. Bathrooms are dirty and very worn out. Only 1 of 3 of the mens showers were working. Lots of spiders in the bathrooms and the stall doors don't latch effectively. Camp store (and access to ice) was closed for 'remodel'.
RangerNot our favorite. Very small campground. Good hiking trails. Decent beach. Very hilly. Shower house was kinda gross.
ScoutHad a wonderful time camping with my family ground were well kept and staff was super friendly and it wasn't super busy
TravelerThis was a gem of a park to find. There is hardly anyone here and you have your pick pretty much of the camping spots. The spots are mostly level and there are two bath houses onsite. The bathrooms are pretty basic but they have hot water and so far I’ve had them mostly to myself. And it’s only $30 a night.
GuideClean bathrooms. Nice park rangers. Open areas with fire pits.
TravelerThere are two small camping spots with picnic tables. The vault toilet here is very clean and even had a lockable door. There is also drinkable water from a city water hand pump. Very quiet at night, except for a handful of cars that might drive through or spend the night. I spent two weeks here and had zero issues with people being loud or causing a ruckus. As far as fire wood, you can walk around and pick up all the downed wood you’d like, but I’d recommend bringing some wood with you if it’s rained in the last few days. Plenty of space to park. Gas stations, fast food, and dollar general are all within 10 mins. Verizon signal - 1/2 bars ATT signal - 2/3 bars
TravelerThis is a horse trail camp. There is a vault toilet,a few trash cans,a water spigot and plenty of room for horse trailers. There are some trails you can walk or ride on. The locals were all very friendly. You can stay for 14 days and it's free.
TravelerThe site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit. I’ve had two cars drive in after sunset who have just sat around for a bit then left. I would not recommend this site if you are traveling solo (Like I am).
Horse riding enthusiasts can find rustic camping options across Wayne National Forest and surrounding areas within 30 miles of Long Bottom, Ohio. The region sits in the foothills of the Appalachians with elevations ranging from 600-1,000 feet and features mixed hardwood forests. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing while summer days frequently reach 85°F with high humidity.
Trail riding opportunities: Zaleski State Forest offers extensive bridle trails with numerous access points. As one rider notes, "There are ample outhouses that are reasonably clean and well-stocked in toilet paper. It helps to have a friend because most of the outhouses don't lock. Most of the sites are large and far enough off the path to feel private" (Kate W., Hocking Hills State Park).
Fishing and boating: Many horse campsites provide water access for both riders and horses. At Burr Oak State Park, "We camped at both Dock 3 and Dock 2 with our dog, those are the only two areas that allow pets. At Dock 3 we were right on the water but dock 2 is probably 200 yards from the water" (Kelsey R.).
Historical explorations: The region contains remnants of oil boom settlements and iron production facilities. At Lake Hope State Park, riders can explore "Hope furnace is just outside the campground and next to the first 'put-in' for the lake. As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day" (Dave V.).
Solitude on weekdays: Horse campgrounds near Long Bottom tend to be uncrowded during weekdays, especially in spring and fall. One camper reports, "Each time I have stayed at Lake Hope State Park, I have marveled at why there are only a few stray campers in a state park of 190 sites. Granted...I am usually camping during the week...but its a ghost town. Which is fine by me...solitude...peace and quiet" (Dave V., Lake Hope State Park).
Wildlife viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities to observe native species. At Strouds Run, "We ended up meeting our guide kitty friend at camp 1- most likely dumped which sucks but very friendly. Besides Kitty and 2 other groups I saw no one else was here which was nice especially during a holiday weekend" (Lani R., Zaleski State Forest).
Trail connections: Many campsites connect directly to multiple trail systems. At Old Stone Church Campground, "Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)" (Tammy F.).
Seasonal limitations: Water availability varies throughout the year. "In mid April 2023 I arrived late afternoon and there were TONS of spots available. Happy with the spot I picked. There was some noise from other campsites, but overall not terrible" (Anna S., Strouds Run State Park).
Self-registration systems: Most horse campgrounds operate with honor-system payment methods. At Kinderhook Trailhead, "Self paying, off season was $15. But the restrooms were closed. There were only 3 other sides occupied" (Birgit H.).
Varied amenities: Facilities differ significantly between established and dispersed camping areas. "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Can camp here in certain spots. Not much area to camp. No fire rings, one picnic table. Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group" (Joe B., Kinderhook Horse Trail).
Trail selection for children: Choose shorter loop trails for young riders. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. And there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various tips accordingly. There are three main camping areas with established fire rings, bathrooms and water supplies making the stops at the end of the day that much more pleasant" (James W.).
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options for after-ride activities. "There are a great deal of interesting rock formations to check out as well as a few good overlook areas. I highly recommend taking the short connector trail on the south loop to cut over to the Moonville Rail Trail" (James W.).
Safety considerations: Toilet facilities are basic at most horse campgrounds. "Water is available at 3 backpack camping areas (Points D, I & P). Parking is available. It is recommended to use the backpacking parking area but we hear that fills up quickly" (Renée C.).
Limited hookup availability: Most horse campgrounds offer minimal RV amenities. "Campsites are only rented in person once you arrive, they have clear instructions at the entrance. Sites were nice and level, but a bit on the smaller side. Plenty of trails for hiking around the park" (Isaac K., Mountwood Park Family Campground).
Site selection challenges: RV sites at horse campgrounds tend to be unlevel. "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. No internet or phone service so great to disconnect" (Daniel).
Alternative accommodations: Consider nearby cabin options if RV sites are unavailable. "Great cabin with a lot of room for family. Easy access to the water for a fun-filled day off boating" (Lauri C.).
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Long Bottom, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Long Bottom, OH is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 109 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Long Bottom, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Long Bottom, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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