Cabin camping near New Plymouth, Ohio offers options within a forested region of southeastern Ohio at elevations ranging from 700-1,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, while summer nights typically cool to the mid-60s. Most cabin locations require advance booking, particularly during October when fall foliage attracts the highest visitor numbers.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Logan: Campbell Cove Camping provides convenient access to Lake Logan with waterfront sites. "Our favorite place to camp. Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," notes a visitor who enjoyed the water activities.
Hiking to waterfalls: Hocking Hills State Park offers trails connecting directly to the campground. "The hiking and exploring are great! It's nice and close to my home (Cleveland)," reports one camper, highlighting the accessibility of trail systems. Another mentions "trails are pretty short hikes and easy access. We enjoyed it with our large breed dog and toddler."
Night photography: Tar Hollow State Park provides dark sky opportunities for stargazing and photography. One visitor noted, "If you're lucky and have no clouds, there is virtually no light pollution and you can see the Milky Way." The remote location creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Lake Hope State Park offers secluded camping areas. "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... solitude...peace and quiet," writes one regular visitor. The campground's lower visitation creates opportunities for more private experiences.
Family-friendly amenities: Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds provides entertainment options beyond hiking. A visitor reports, "There is a nice sized sand ground play set with swings and 2 slides, an air pillow (blob) putt putt, a trail to the lake, a dog run, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room and very pleasant staff."
Proximity to attractions: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday offers convenient access to regional highlights. "This campground was also located close (within a few miles) to all the main hiking trails, and about 12 miles from Logan," mentions one camper, highlighting the strategic location for accessing multiple points of interest.
What you should know
Water conditions: Burr Oak State Park campers should anticipate water level variations. "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," explains one visitor, describing how water access differs between sites.
Sloped tent sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature uneven terrain. At Tar Hollow State Park, "Many of the campsites are situated on pretty intense slopes. 106 wasn't too bad. I would guess 105 is probably the most level site in the campground," advises a camper who navigated the challenging topography.
Limited cell service: Most cabin camping areas have restricted connectivity. A Lake Hope camper points out, "There is no cell service. Be sure to give anyone who may need to contact you a heads up." This disconnection extends to most recreation areas in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra bedding: Most cabin rentals provide minimal amenities. Campbell Cove Camping cabins require planning, as one visitor explains: "We loved the location of Campbell Coves to Old Man's Cave and hiking trails. We do a family trip to the area every fall and this will be our go-to location. We've already booked for fall 2021. We stayed in one of the rustic cabins."
Consider weather patterns: Spring camping often involves precipitation. At Hocking Hills Canoe Livery, a camper reported, "My group had a blast, even though it poured rain for the first hour," highlighting the importance of preparation for variable conditions.
Book specific sites: For larger family groups, site selection matters. "If you want shade, these are the spots to be, all other primitive sites are really out in the open with little cover," advises a visitor about Tar Hollow's camping areas, emphasizing the importance of reservation specifics.
Tips from RVers
Check approach roads: Access routes may challenge larger vehicles. A Hocking Hills KOA Holiday visitor cautions, "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township, so its completely out of their ability to make improvements."
Leveling requirements: The region's hilly terrain affects campsite setup. Lake Hope State Park campers note that "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."
Hookup availability: Electric connections vary between campgrounds. At Burr Oak State Park, "The campground could use some updates. There are some really beautiful sites, but there are only a few with electric. The addition of concrete pads and electric would improve the campground considerably."
