Campgrounds near Long Bottom, Ohio can be found throughout the Appalachian foothills in southeastern Ohio, spanning across Wayne National Forest and along the Ohio River. The region sits at elevations ranging from 582 to 934 feet above sea level, with camping options available year-round despite seasonal variations in facility operations. Winter camping in this area requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, while summer brings high humidity levels reaching 70-80% during peak months.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Forked Run State Park offers a complete disc golf course within walking distance of campsites. "There is plenty to do with fishing and hiking. A lot of people in the area mainly go for swimming or to play frisbee golf," notes Andrew S. in his review of Forked Run State Park Campground.
Hiking remote trails: Explore the lesser-known paths in Wayne National Forest near Burr Oak State Park. "Hiking trails are good, the lodge has been renovated, however, I have not stayed there since the reno. Fairly remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased. Beautiful scenery. Fall is a good time to visit," says Leon H. about Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Paddling opportunities: Multiple lakes in the region offer kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals. "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Man's Cave. We enjoyed swimming in the pool," mentions Elana C. about Hocking Hills State Park.
Water activities: Summer swimming at developed beaches provides relief from heat. "The lake and the beach are very nice! Sometimes the water isn't very clean. Often times the beach is littered with goose droppings. The beach area can sometimes be crowded in the summer," explains Lucille W. about Strouds Run State Park.
What campers like
Secluded weekday camping: Mid-week visits offer significantly lower occupancy. "When 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," reports Anna S. about Strouds Run State Park Campground.
Waterfront sites: Some campgrounds offer lake and river proximity. "We have 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," shares Kelsey R. about Burr Oak State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The region provides opportunities to spot deer and birds. "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!" remarks Chris C. about Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Recreational fishing: Several lakes offer fishing opportunities throughout the season. "This campsite costed about 20 dollars per night. There is electricity and restrooms. There are showers like usual and there is also boat rentals which was really expensive. There are short hiking trails nearby," notes Kevin T. about Forked Run State Park.
What you should know
Facility age and condition: Many campgrounds have older infrastructure. "The campgrounds, however, leave a lot to be desired. The people were really nice, but the facilities were terrible. The pit toilets were filthy- covered in flies, spiderwebs and dirt. They look like they have not been hosed out since the 70's," reports Megan M. about Forked Run State Park.
Site terrain challenges: Many sites feature uneven ground and slopes. "Went there in October. No attendance around and not many campers. Sites are very bad for tent camping and not the best for RV's. Back ins are short and most sites have no level ground even for the picnic table or fire ring," warns Bob L. about Forked Run State Park.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is minimal in most campgrounds. "Fairly remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," mentions Leon H. about Burr Oak State Park.
Cash payment requirements: Some smaller campgrounds have limited payment options. "Cash only or check is also a bit inconvenient and archaic in 2025," notes Luna L. about Krodel Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. "This campground has been around since the 1800s. It has a lot of permanent residents and we had a lot of fun checking out the different set ups. There are a lot of amenities but they need updated. The playgrounds need replaced," shares Jeremiah S. about Kountry Resort Campground.
Water park alternatives: Some campgrounds offer water recreation beyond swimming. "The lake is great for fishing, boating, swimming and they have a new water park featuring inflatable swing, slide and other features. The lifeguards are great and proactive about issues. Best deal going, after 5pm it's just $5 per swimmer," explains Leon H. about Lake Snowden Campground.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. "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," cautions Jenny K. about Hocking Hills State Park.
Picnic areas: Look for campgrounds with dedicated picnic shelters. "The park has nice camp sites, cabins if you like that kinda thing! But watch out for the FOG on the lake at night! It gets so bad you can't see past the end of your boat!" warns Robert R. about Lake Hope State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Pack leveling blocks as many sites require them. "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," explains Daniel about Lake Hope State Park.
Electric hookup variations: Check amperage compatibility before arrival. "The website advertises electrical hookups but it fails to mention that some sites on the premises are only 50 amp hookups and not 30 amp and 50 amp. I pull into the campground only to find that there are 50 amp hookups and I have a 30 amp cable," warns Paul F. about Lake Snowden Campground.
Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have tight sites for larger rigs. "We have stayed here a couple of times in a tent and a class a motor home. The campground is pretty secluded but beautiful rolling hills. While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain," shares Marshall P. about Lake Hope State Park.
Water access points: Note water filling stations may be separate from sites. "This park campground is nice, but lost in time. Outhouses are gross. Usable, but gross. No water hook ups, but a place to fill your tank behind water fountains," explains Sandra S. about Forked Run State Park.
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