Lake Hope State Park provides a secluded camping experience in southeastern Ohio's Zaleski State Forest. Located about 30 minutes from New Plymouth, the park encompasses 2,983 acres of forested hills with elevation changes of 100-300 feet. Winter temperatures average 22-40°F while summer ranges from 62-87°F, making spring through fall the most popular camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking through diverse terrain: Lake Hope State Park Campground offers extensive hiking trails with varying difficulty levels through dense forest. "Trails are superb...tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn. The terrain is undulating but very doable," notes Dave V., who appreciates the park's biodiversity.
Flatwater paddling: The 120-acre lake provides calm waters ideal for beginners. "Lake Hope is a nice flatwater paddle. Get there early and watch the water lilies open," suggests Dave V., highlighting morning as the best time for water activities.
Historical exploration: Visit the Hope Furnace iron production site and nearby Moonville Tunnel. "You are plopped down smack dab in the Zaleski State Forest... The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike," shares Dave V., though he notes the tunnel "is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers."
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Top O' The Caves Campground offers proximity to Ash Cave and other Hocking Hills attractions. "The location was great. Right near Ash Cave and Cedar Falls with easy access to main highways," reports D G., who appreciated the strategic location despite other concerns.
Alternative to crowded areas: Some sites provide respite from busy tourist spots. "Lake Hope gave me a new way to experience an area I grew very close to and appreciate but cannot stand the swarms of people," explains Lori L., who values the less-traveled spaces near New Plymouth for glamping.
Winter camping availability: Strouds Run State Park Campground remains open year-round for off-season visitors. "We stopped here on Thanksgiving on our way South. Self paying, off season was $15," shares Birgit H., noting the affordable winter rates though restrooms were closed during her visit.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have minimal to no connectivity. "There is no cell service. You are off the grid! Enjoy the outdoors!" mentions Sydney from Tar Hollow State Park Campground, emphasizing this as a positive feature rather than a drawback.
Varied site conditions: Campsite quality and levelness differ significantly across locations. "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 about Lake Hope State Park, highlighting practical challenges for RVs.
Weather considerations: Fog and rain can affect visibility and activities. "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, indicating potential safety concerns for evening water activities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday offers numerous family-oriented facilities. "The pool was wonderful, the bathroom was clean and spacious. The camp store has everything you may need with a Walmart 10 minutes down the road," notes afshar Y., describing amenities helpful for families with children.
Accessible recreation: Look for campgrounds with on-site activities for all ages. "We have stayed here a couple of times in a tent and a class a motor home... beautiful rolling hills," shares Marshall P. about Lake Hope, mentioning its appeal across different camping styles.
Educational opportunities: Some parks feature nature programs with hands-on experiences. "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!" exclaims Chris C., describing unique wildlife encounters available at Lake Hope.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Burr Oak State Park Campground, RVers should research specific sites. "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 Kelsey R., providing key information for pet owners.
Hookup availability: Not all glamping near New Plymouth offers full services. "RV sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded," notes Kevin F. about Lake Hope State Park, indicating the trade-off between amenities and natural setting.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township," warns Vicki H., explaining the approach to Hocking Hills KOA requires careful driving for fifth wheels and larger vehicles.
