The southeastern Ohio landscape surrounding McConnelsville features reclaimed mining lands now converted to recreation areas, with elevations ranging from 700 to 950 feet above sea level. Many camping options exist on former strip-mined areas that have been rehabilitated into lakes and woodlands. Seasonal temperature variations are significant, with summer highs frequently reaching the upper 80s and winter temperatures dropping into the low 20s.
What to do
Kayaking on local waters: Hook Lake (Campground A) — Jesse Owens State Park offers direct water access for paddlers. "The campground has a beautiful lake you fish or kayak on and there are a ton of birds so bring your binoculars," notes Shannon G., who camped as a volunteer with the Buckeye Trail Association.
Archery practice: Some campgrounds include dedicated archery facilities. "There's also an archery range but I did not go and check that out as I do not have a bow and arrow," reports a camper at Hook Lake, making it ideal for target practice enthusiasts.
Backcountry hiking: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed provides extensive trails for backpacking. A hiker explains, "Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," while another mentions, "The good sites are miles in and will necessitate doing the entire loop."
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Sand Hollow (Campground C) — Jesse Owens State Park provides waterfront sites. Greg K. appreciates that there are "Many waterfront sites, picnic tables, fire pits and bathrooms. Also a very generous amount of room for parking right on your site."
No-cost camping: The free camping throughout the Jesse Owens State Park area stands out to visitors. "It's free to camp and first come first serve. You do have to have a permit which can be downloaded from the web," explains a camper at Bicentennial Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Hook Lake. A visitor noted, "The campsites were well spaced apart and a good size. You had a variety of campsites at this campground. Make sure you drive through the whole campground to find what you would like such as grassy area, overlooking lake, near the playground, etc."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically between carriers and locations. A camper at Burr Oak Cove Campground reported, "Att cell reception was at 2 bars of LTE as well making remote work possible," while at Bicentennial Campground, a visitor stated, "NO cell service (even with booster antenna)."
Toilet facilities: Most Jesse Owens State Park campgrounds offer only basic sanitation. At Sand Hollow, Derek C. noted, "The only bad thing I have to say about the area was the 'rest rooms'. Definitely need to have bug spray in hand and possibly your own TP. They were disgusting."
Water availability: Water access can be seasonal or unreliable. At Sand Hollow, one camper experienced issues: "The water was recently shut off so you need to be sure to bring plenty of jugs of water, not a big deal though."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy the natural inhabitants around the campsites. At Riversedge Campground, a father recounted his experience: "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."
Stream exploration: Some sites feature small waterways perfect for young naturalists. A camper at Burr Oak Cove mentioned, "There is a creek running through the main primitive campsites below the dam, with minnows and crawfish for the kids to catch."
Seasonal considerations: Spring visits offer unique natural displays. A visitor to Wildcat Hollow observed, "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require advance preparation for level parking. At Wolf Run State Park Campground, a camper advised, "Some of the electric sites were very small or had a very bad dip on the pad. Choose your site wisely."
RV size compatibility: Several campgrounds can accommodate larger vehicles despite their rustic nature. At Bicentennial Campground, James D. confidently stated, "Both of the Camp Grounds mentioned there is no danger of getting a big rig into and not out of so don't be afraid."
Water and power limitations: Most sites offer limited or no hookups. A visitor at Hook Lake noted, "There is no electric so come ready to boondock or bring a generator," making advance planning essential for RV campers requiring power.
