The rugged terrain surrounding Malta, Ohio supports several camping areas from full-service state parks to primitive sites on public lands. Jesse Owens State Park encompasses multiple campgrounds including Sand Hollow, Hook Lake, and Maple Grove where tent camping and limited RV sites are available at no cost. Burr Oak State Park Campground offers more developed facilities with cabins, RV hookups, and shower houses within a 30-minute drive. Free primitive camping opportunities can be found at the Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed area, particularly appealing to backpackers seeking solitude.
Most campgrounds in southeastern Ohio operate year-round though services may be limited in winter months. Permits are required for camping in Jesse Owens State Park (formerly AEP ReCreation lands), though they remain free of charge. "You need to get a free permit to use this recreation area. Pick one up at local gas stations or convenience stores, it takes less than 5 minutes," noted one visitor about Sand Hollow. Cell phone coverage is extremely limited in the region, particularly at primitive sites. Vault toilets are standard at most free campgrounds, while developed state parks provide flush toilets and shower facilities. Campers should bring adequate water supplies as some locations have unreliable water sources, particularly at primitive sites.
Waterfront camping represents a particular draw throughout the area, with numerous lakes and the Muskingum River providing scenic settings. A camper described Riversedge Campground: "Our tent was right on the river and Kelli was the best host ever!" Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, though seasonal challenges include mosquitoes and poison ivy during summer months. The terrain across camping areas varies significantly from sunny, open sites to densely wooded areas providing shade. Primitive sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, though maintenance quality varies between locations. Many campers appreciate the night sky visibility, as one review mentioned "no cell service and very little light pollution at night so perfect for looking at stars." Fishing access represents a common attraction at campgrounds near water bodies.
$25 - $55 / night
"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."
"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."
"It's not listed on maps, but it is right across the way from hook lake, there is an access road you'll go on that will take you there. It's right off 83 in McConnellsville, outside Caldwell, ohio."
"Very secluded, perfect for those nature lovers looking to get away from it all. No cell service and very little light pollution at night so perfect for looking at stars."
"Nice trails to walk. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year."
"Great spot for walk in or hike in camping! There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail."
"Hook Lake AEP is I think the second largest of the campground areas, outside McConnellsville, Oh. Hook Lake campsites are spread throughout the woodland loop above the lake recreation area."
"We did buy wood from a private home in a near by town. Great deal. $10 for a whole wheel barrow full of wood. Quality wood (dry and well cut). "
"It has recently been purchased by the State of Ohio. The ReCreation AEP campsites has an outstanding FB (Facebook) page."
"Maple Grove AEP is located outside McConnellsville, Oh and was ReCreated by American Energy Power. The campsite is clean, basic and free with permit."
$10 - $15 / night
"Some sites are close to each other, some are more spread out - see attached map. The ones you need to walk to (3-7) aren’t far - I wish I noticed them when I drove by."
"A friend and I were just traveling through Ohio and needed a place to stay."
$30 - $60 / night
"We chose rivers edge for our annual father son getaway and we were not disappointed. The tent sites are right next to the water and there is a beach and dock nearby also."
$23 - $50 / night
"Blue Rock State Park is outside Zanesville, Oh off I70. Rt 60 takes you South and then you have a choice of routes in. Good Ohio farmland scenery."
"Newer flush toilets near the group camp sites are nice. Camp store has showers for camper use. Really pretty lake!"
$25 - $45 / night
"Great smaller park, (1,000+acre) with easy access to the interstate. My Grandsons Love that the water is clearer than most lakes here in Ohio!!"
"Lots of Ohio farmland countryside though. There is a nice size lake in the middle of Wolf Run so everything is based around it. Watch the traffic when driving from one area to another."
"We were camping there as volunteers with the Buckeye Trail Association to assist with trail cleanup. The Buckeye Trail is easily accessible from the campground for hiking."
"I showed up at 1am and drove around looking for a spot, settling for the one that was closest to the entrance, and much more private."
ScoutThe site is full hook-up. 30/50 amp. This site is partial tree covered and at the end of the loop. Shower house very short walk across the road. Trash dumpster across the street. This is a short site 23 foot max for RV. Has a double pad with concrete Picknick table area. Best spot on C loop.
ScoutTHIS IS AN RV CAMP. They have tent sites but they are just squares of gravel/wood. Our site was placed just feet from the ROAD you turn off of to enter the campground. Ridiculous and incredibly overpriced for what you get.
ScoutStayed at this small campground. Proof good things can come in small packages. Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level. My review is biased a bit, 1st night I was literally the only person camping. Plenty of nearby trails. Since it was so quiet in campground I saw wildlife like deer, turkeys, and they must have a resident pileated woodpecker because I keep seeing it. Branson (staff) who checked me in was very friendly and helpful. Three shower/bathrooms are very nice up by the office. They also have some outhouse style bathrooms further back in campground. Would definitely stay again if I can snag a site.
GuideIts free so worth it but i would not stay here again. Its not too “dispersed” its more of a parking lot + atvs driving all day if your sensitive to noise. Oh its also raining ticks here. Stayed for one night.
GuideThis is a one night stop on our way to Myrtle beach. Very nice place. We’re at site 17 with a KOA patio. Rolling hills, friendly staff. Great pizza, wings and fudge. I want to come back and spend more time here! AT&T one bar. KOA WiFi ok but expect pauses if you stream video. Steep and narrow road to enter the park.
TravelerNice and quiet. Bathroom was locked. Only one other person here. 10/10 recommend
TravelerRelatively flat; during OHV off season, one of the roads is closed, I believe to Dorr Run. This trailhead is mainly for OHV riders so there is space for a vehicle and trailer.
NOTE: I think they close the toilets every winter.
Ground is covered in snow, so I would scout it in the summer. Several parking areas along the road.
ScoutWe had a family reunion there, our camper and rented 2 cabins, made full use of the shelter house that day. It worked out so well we are booking again this year.
TravelerPretty easy trail to walk, small camp ground for multiple campers, and a nice little waterfall at the bottom of the trail it wasn’t running very much when we went but a pretty spot
The Muskingum River Valley around Malta, Ohio sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with terrain characterized by steep wooded hills and narrow valleys. The region experiences distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cold winters that can limit services at primitive camping areas. Water access represents a significant feature at most camping sites near Malta, Ohio, with several offering direct waterfront access for fishing and paddling activities.
Kayaking accessible waters: At Riversedge Campground, visitors can rent kayaks with transportation provided. "They even drop you off upstream to start your trip," explains one camper. The campground recently purchased "62 acres for hiking across the road" to expand recreational options.
Stargazing in dark skies: The remote setting of Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed camping area offers exceptional night sky viewing. "We only saw 2 other people on the trail while I was hiking out the second day," notes one visitor, highlighting the seclusion that creates prime conditions for astronomy.
Wildflower viewing: Spring visitors to Wildcat Hollow experience spectacular seasonal displays. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," reports a regular visitor who camps there "allllll the time."
Direct waterfront access: Many Hook Lake (Campground A) sites provide immediate water access. "We drove thru Sand Hollow, Bicentennial and Maple Grove before choosing Hook Lake," reports a camper who found a hilltop site with cell coverage, noting, "We were able to get both att and verizon at around 2 bars."
Wildlife encounters: Camping at Bicentennial Campground provides abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "The campground has a beautiful lake you fish or kayak on and there are a ton of birds so bring your binoculars," advises one visitor. Nighttime brings "music of nighttime bugs and frogs" according to another camper.
Camping without crowds: Wolf Run State Park offers secluded experiences even during summer. "We had the whole back section to ourself! Not a soul on site but a few boats out fishing," reports one visitor, who recommends sites 22-25 for "seclusion and the view."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across camping areas. At Wolf Run State Park Campground, service is typically available, while at Wildcat Hollow "there is cell service when you're up in the ridges but there are a lot of dead zones in the valleys and even at the trailhead."
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Several campgrounds experience significant mud issues. "The trail is challenging terrain, especially when backpacking. It can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that," notes a Wildcat Hollow visitor. Similar conditions exist at other sites.
Water quality considerations: Water sources require careful assessment. At Wildcat Hollow, "there are signs posted at the trailhead that advise against" using stream water even with filters because "there is still active oil drilling in one of the hollows."
Site selection strategy: At Burr Oak Cove Campground, families should consider specific sites. "This is our second trip to Burr Oak Cove and it continues to be a great place to camp for the weekend. Very family friendly with spacious sites (especially if you can get two next to each other)," advises a repeat visitor.
Overnight backpacking intro: Wildcat Hollow offers beginner-friendly backpacking. "Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," explains a reviewer who notes both smaller and larger loop options with "campsites every couple of miles" for flexibility in hiking distances.
Wildlife preparation: Campers should secure food from wildlife, particularly at Bicentennial Campground. "The raccoons were a little too close for comfort in the evening make sure you lock your food and trash in your car at night," warns a visitor who otherwise enjoyed the "beautiful campground with fire pit and table."
Site leveling challenges: At Burr Oak Cove Campground, RVers face specific setup issues. "If you are bringing a trailer or RV it can be a challenge to level them as the parking pads are sloped," reports a camper who otherwise found rangers "kind and informative."
Water availability planning: RV campers at Hook Lake should prepare for limited services. "They have trash, but no water," explains a camper with a 40+ foot rig who found suitable sites despite the primitive nature of the campground.
Boondocking opportunities: Jesse Owens State Park campgrounds offer free camping without hookups. "It's free but you'll need to bring what you need," advises an RVer who stayed at Maple Grove, noting the campground has "small and shady spots" with a host on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Malta, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Malta, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 146 campgrounds and RV parks near Malta, OH and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Malta, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Malta, OH is Burr Oak State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 31 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Malta, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Malta, OH.
What parks are near Malta, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 parks near Malta, OH that allow camping, notably Dillon Lake and Wayne National Forest.
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