Camping sites near New Plymouth, Ohio offer year-round accessibility with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. The region sits within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau with elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet. Winter camping remains available at select locations including Burr Oak State Park, though temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking to hidden geological features: At Zaleski State Forest, trails connect to the Moonville Rail Trail with its historic tunnel. "We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek," notes James W. The park has "beautiful winding Ohio roads and landscapes out of this world."
Fishing in less crowded waters: Lake Logan at Campbell Cove Camping provides fishing opportunities away from busier state parks. "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," shares Ann H. The campground has "a great playground for kids and a swimming hole."
Stargazing from higher elevations: Tar Hollow State Park offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "If you're lucky and have no clouds, there is virtually no light pollution and you can see the Milky Way," explains one camper. The park sits on one of the higher ridges in the region, providing clearer astronomical viewing than lower-elevation campgrounds.
What campers like
Secluded primitive camping: Lake Hope State Park Campground offers tent sites with greater privacy than more developed areas. "Tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn," describes one visitor. Another notes, "I have marveled at why there are only a few stray campers in a state park of 190 sites."
Winter camping options: Burr Oak State Park Campground maintains year-round availability. "We actually stayed at the lodge and it was lovely. We would hike around during the day and swim inside as it was before spring," shares one winter visitor. The campground features "nice showers" that are particularly valuable during colder months.
Waterfront campsites: At Campbell Cove Camping, visitors appreciate the lakefront locations. "We stayed at site 63, on the water. Big site, water view and plenty of space," reports Joe B. Another camper mentioned, "The lake view is perfect. Bring your hammock because there are plenty of trees!"
What you should know
Campground spacing and privacy levels: At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, sites offer varying degrees of seclusion. "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike," notes Jenny K. Other campers mention, "We stayed in the walk-in family campground, not the main campground. The sites are mostly far apart from one another."
Walk-in tent site considerations: Many campgrounds require carrying equipment from parking areas. "Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites!" warns Amanda P. at Hocking Hills. At Zaleski, "You cannot park your car directly at your campsite. There is a parking lot at the bottom of the campground hill."
Seasonal water challenges: Spring brings muddy conditions while summer can see water restrictions. "Spring rainfall can create muddy conditions at primitive sites," notes one regular visitor. At Tar Hollow, "The campground is about 2-3 acres large, situated on a hill with a path dug out around the perimeter. The path around the hill allows for great drainage; a huge help if you're camping in rainy weather."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options beyond beaches: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday offers a pool alternative to natural swimming areas. "There is a nice little pool, but it wasn't open for the season yet," mentioned one visitor. Another noted, "Nice swimming, staff was very helpful."
Nature programs for children: Lake Hope State Park offers educational activities. "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!" shares Chris C.
Cabin alternatives for challenging weather: Many families opt for cabins during uncertain weather periods. "On this particular trip it was chilly and we were staying with small children so we went the rustic cabin route," explains one visitor at Top O' The Caves. Cabins typically cost $80-150 per night depending on amenities and season.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At Lake Hope State Park, RV sites present leveling challenges. "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," reports Daniel. Site selection is critical as "sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain."
Power and utility differences: Big Sycamore Family Campground offers varying hookup options. "Some sites are full hook up, some sites are electric and water, and some are primitive. The dump station is easily accessible if you need it," explains Amber R. The campground is "located within a short drive (about 10 miles/15 minutes) from everything Hocking Hills has to offer."
Seasonal operation schedules: Most private campgrounds operate limited seasons. Campbell Cove operates from "April15 - October 31" while Big Sycamore runs "April 15 - October 31." State parks typically maintain some winter availability, though with reduced services and limited site options during cold months.
