Janessa S.
Traveler
TravelerBlue Rock State Park Campground — Blue Rock State Park
Equestrian campground
Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around. Only complaint would be the non equestrians staying in the equestrian area
Equestrian Camping near New Plymouth, OH
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Zaleski State Forest Horse Camp offers primitive tent camping for equestrians in southeastern Ohio, approximately 25 miles from New Plymouth. The free campground provides vault toilets but lacks electric hookups, water hookups, and shower facilities. Sites are accessed by walk-in or hike-in methods and accommodate tent camping only. Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground near Laurelville provides more amenities for horse owners with 44 campsites that accommodate both tents and RVs. The campground includes drinking water, electric hookups with 30-amp service, showers, toilets, and trash disposal. Some campsite areas are very sloped, requiring careful placement of tents and equipment when staying overnight.
Trail access connects riders to the extensive network of paths throughout the Wayne National Forest region. The campgrounds serve as convenient baselines for exploring the surrounding bridle trails and scenic woodlands. Water sources for horses are limited at Zaleski, so campers should plan accordingly and bring sufficient water for their animals. Sites are generally quiet on weekdays with increased activity on weekends. The park terrain features rolling hills with varying degrees of shade at campsites. Many equestrians use these campgrounds as starting points for day rides through the forest. Nearby Lake Hope State Park offers additional recreational opportunities including hiking trails and a lake for fishing, though it lacks specific horse corrals or dedicated equestrian facilities.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near New Plymouth (17)
1. Hocking Hills State Park Campground
"There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."
"If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."
from $20 - $70 / night
Check Availability2. Lake Hope State Park Campground
"Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave...but..."
"At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways rather if it’s by tent (the way I prefer) or by camper. It’s a very nice place to have some family fun. Very nice beach and swimming area."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability3. Zaleski State Forest
"Zaleski State Forest is adjacent to Lake Hope State Park. Off Rt 278 near Zaleski, Oh, true Ohio countryside to enjoy on the way in. Signal is spotty."
"Much of Ohio is flat corn land, so Zaleski is a special place in Ohio. The trail swings close to some homes, which is less remote than out west where I live now, but overall it's nice."
4. Burr Oak State Park Campground
"Wayne National Forest shares the area with Burr Oak State Park near Glouster, Oh. Wayne National Forest is split into three areas in southeastern Ohio."
"The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike. There is a bathroom across the road and access to water at the entrance of the site. Showers are 15 minutes walk or a quick drive away."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability5. Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground
"Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level."
"The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built! They are amazing and plenty if room for larger horses. "
from $25 - $70 / night
Check Availability6. Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead
"The second night we only had one tent near us. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
"OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season. Nice place."
7. Pine Creek Cabins & Camping Resort
"This cabin also comes with two horse stalls. Bridle trail access right from campground."
from $40 - $999 / night
Check Availability8. Strouds Run State Park Campground
"The go to camping location for Athens. Many campsites, trails, and amenities. Anything from boat rentals, a small store, and docks to use near the lake."
"Sites are only rented in person once you arrive, they have clear instructions at the entrance. Sites were nice and level, but a bit on the smaller side. Plenty of trails for hiking around the park."
9. Snowden lake
from $30 - $35 / night
10. Old Stone Church Campground
"Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
Drive Time
- 1 hr from Columbus, OH
- 1 hr 3 min from Parkersburg, WV
- 1 hr 49 min from Huntington, WV
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near New Plymouth, OH
4 Photos of 17 New Plymouth Campgrounds
Equestrian Camping Reviews near New Plymouth, OH
292 Reviews of 17 New Plymouth Campgrounds
Shannon G.
LegendDeer Creek State Park Campground
Small, but perfect site for us
This was a last minute reservation and only available due to a cancellation. The campground was full for the weekend. The campground is pretty big with different types of sites. Some are smaller, close to neighbors while other have seclusion with trees. From past experience, if it rains, some of the sites do flood. We had great weather this weekend. The site we reserved had a hill right next to the passenger side/door side of your camper. If you had a big camper, it might be tight to open your slides and an awning. You most likely would not sit right outside your camper door. In fact, the fire ring is behind the site and up a small hill. We set up our ez-up in the back and out of the way, it worked for us. There was also a path that led you into the playground. Speaking of playgrounds, you will hear a lot of kids if the weather is nice. We were right across from the camp host (very nice lady) and very short walk to the bathhouse. The bathhouse had 4 flushable toilets and I think 3 showers. The showers did not have benches in the stall, only on the outside directly across. With a full campground, the bathrooms were kept very clean with the amount of people using it. We walked around and noticed a lot of bathhouses and another playground. We took a hike that led us to the lodge - it was an in and out and just under 5 miles. On our way back we stopped at the camp store which was well stocked with items you may need or not. There is a putt putt course, frisbee disc course, horse trails, dog park, nature center, golf course and more trails nearby. There are plenty of things to do if you like to keep busy or are trying to keep kids entertained. (The bees and stinkbugs were out and about while we were there.)
Shelly S.LegendBlue Rock State Park Campground
It's moss I think....
Blue Rock State Park is outside Zanesville, Oh off I70. Rt 60 takes you South and then you have a choice of routes in. Good Ohio farmland scenery.
Out of the way, small camping area with basic sites. A cool feature is a few of the sites have pavilion type covered patios that you can pitch your tent in to help stay dry during inclimate weather.
Otherwise the sites are close together. Though there are a few sites that are more off to themselves, they are still wide open with sparse tree cover.
The restroom is basic, the showerhouse is located at the reservoir beach as well as the camp store and boat rental.The staff was very knowledgeable about the area and conversational.
Several trails are in the area, the Horse Camp is up the road. In addition to this area there is the Blue Rock State Forest that offers several out door activities, check out their map and site online.
Dave V.LegendLake Hope State Park Campground
Variety, solitude and immersed in history!
Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave...but...
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. Granted...I am usually camping during the week...but its a ghost town. Which is fine by me...solitude...peace and quiet.
The main reason is pit latrines...well, that's my guess, anyways. LHSP still has hot showers. I guess because it doesn't have a pool, it doesn't have the crowds. Shoot! I'd stay home if I wanted a pool. Whatever the reason, you rarely, if ever, will have to contend with neighbors.
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. The campsites are pretty open, so if you did have neighbors...you'd know it. We'd usually snatch up site 98 or 99...or both. No one would usually go that deep into the park. It was private...pit latrine nearby...flat and airy. Foot trails were nearby and the bike trail wasn't too far away.
If you brought your boats...Lake Hope is a nice flatwater paddle. Get there early and watch the water lilies open. Hope furnace is just outside the campground and next to the first "put-in" for the lake. As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day. There is also a swimming beach on the opposite end of Lake Hope...if you just have to get wet.
The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike. Unfortunately, it is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers...still cool nonetheless.
You are plopped down smack dab in the Zaleski State Forest...so pick a trail, any trail.
A short drive away are amazing trails and formations...Old Man's Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Conkle’s Hollow, Rockhouse and Ash Cave. Each one a must see! Give youself time to hike the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of southern Ohio. Not only will you be glad you did...you will want to return year and year!
- LLeon H.
GuideHocking Hills State Park Campground
Most Scenic camping area in Ohio
This is one of the best state parks and in my opinion the most scenic. There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff. We have camped here in tents many times over the years. The state park campground is above par compared to others in the Ohio system. The naturalists are great and run many programs even in the off seasons. Fall is the best season, the foliage is awesome. Popular with Boy and Girl Scout groups. Campground has an outdoor pool.
- Shelly S.Legend
Zaleski State Forest
Work for it
Zaleski State Forest is adjacent to Lake Hope State Park. Off Rt 278 near Zaleski, Oh, true Ohio countryside to enjoy on the way in. Signal is spotty.
Primitive camping, check in before going and bring your good hiking boots. You will get a work out. There is water to enjoy also and a historical drive if you enjoy learning about the stuff our ancestors did for "fun" :)
Mary S.LegendHocking Hills State Park Campground
Nice campground with even better hiking and scenery
Old Man's Cave Cave Campground in Hocking Hills State Park is a large campground. At many of the sites, you'll feel like you're in a large campground. If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground.
Choosing a Site
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Study the photo of the site map included here to get a sense of where you might want a site. You'll be able to see electric/non-electric and reservable/non-reservable sites. There's quite a mix of sites and the map has a legend that will guide you.
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A reservation is a good idea. You'll definitely need one on weekends during the summer/fall, or you should arrive by Thursday for a chance for a non-reservable site for the weekend. I've been here in July and mid-September, and the park was crowded. I just keep an eye on reservations on reserveamerica.com.
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Electric sites: I recommend sites 152-163, 164-172, and 141-151 because you are away from the main roads (long straightaways). In my opinion, sites 161-163, 150-151 and 171-172 are the best because you're at the end of spurs off a main road.
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Full hookup sites: Sites 66-70 at the end of the full hookup stretch (24-70) are good.
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Warning about full hookup sites: There's some kind of pumping station behind the sites on the left as you enter so it's noisy all the time. If I wanted a full hookup, I'd avoid sites from #24 up to at least #35 because you're going to have constant noise. It probably doesn't matter when you're inside because units with full hookups typically have closed windows and AC/heat.
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Reservable non-electric sites 81-93: I like #92 and #93 and the first couple at the beginning.
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Non-reservable sites: #1-23 are electric and #76-78 are non-electric.
Amenities
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Picnic table and fire ring at sites
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Swimming pool
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Pay attention to the map if the location of showers and toilets is important to you. There are 3 showerhouses with showers, flush toilets and sinks. For some reason, the floor in the showerhouse near the pool was always wet and dirty even in September when the pool was closed. Other toilets throughout the campground are pit toilets.
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Gray water disposal stations and potable water stations
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Laundry facility near the shower house by the pool
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Dump station
Activities
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Scenery and hiking are what make this park special...and crowded.
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See photos that show a map and descriptions of 8 hiking areas. Some of these areas are outside the park, and you'll need to drive to the trailheads or take a shuttle ($5 fee). Ohio does a good job of consistently marking trails and posting information boards that show where you are and where you can go from your current location.
Cell Phone Service: It's spotty. As you walk around, sometimes you have it and sometimes you don't!
Cool Feature of Ohio Parks
When you use reserveamerica.com, you can participate in a rewards program for Ohio state parks. We were able to apply points to stay free one night out of three.
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Michael L.GuideGreat Seal State Park Campground
Foothills of Appalachia
Simple and safe... Fifteen reservable sites via online or phone. Equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers seem to use this park often. Although no utilities... there is a shelter, restroom and trash recepticle. Campfires are permissible. Hiking trails head off from this park that cover many miles. A steep hike up Sugar Loaf will wake you up in the morning.
Lindsay B.
RangerZaleski State Forest
Zaleski is a gem in Ohio
There's a great loop hike in Zaleski State Forest. High quality trees, nice little hills, cool rock formations. Fine campground for tent-camping (my preferred camping method). Much of Ohio is flat corn land, so Zaleski is a special place in Ohio. The trail swings close to some homes, which is less remote than out west where I live now, but overall it's nice.
Guide to New Plymouth
Zaleski State Forest offers equestrian camping approximately 25 miles from New Plymouth, Ohio in wooded terrain averaging 800-900 feet in elevation. The region experiences moderate seasonal temperature variations with summer highs typically reaching the 80s and winter lows dropping below freezing. Camping areas feature varying terrain with substantial shade coverage depending on location and time of year.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The Zaleski State Forest backpacking loop connects to multiple camping areas with established amenities. "I have backpacked the trails here since the 1980s. More recently, I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop... The water is good and I have never seen them dry. You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp," notes Leon H. about Zaleski State Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide accessible fishing near campgrounds. "There are plenty off of shore fishing spots right off the campgrounds trails. You can dock a boat off lake hope and enjoy a day on the water, or rent a kayak or canoe at the local beach area right down the road," reports Kasey K. about fishing options.
Historic site visits: The Hope Furnace and Moonville Tunnel provide historical landmarks within short driving distance. "I highly recommend taking the short connector trail on the south loop to cut over to the Moonville Rail Trail. We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek," writes James W. about exploring near Burr Oak State Park.
What campers like
Abundant wildlife viewing: Forest areas support diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "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," shares Elana C. about Hocking Hills State Park.
Quiet weekday camping: Most campgrounds experience lower attendance during weekdays. "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. Granted...I am usually camping during the week...but its a ghost town. Which is fine by me...solitude...peace and quiet," observes Dave V. about Lake Hope State Park.
Water recreation options: Several lakes provide swimming and boating access during warmer months. "We took a couple of the hikes down by the lake and it was great," mentions Kevin F., while Robert R. adds a practical warning: "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!!¡!!¡"
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more site separation than others. "We stayed in the walk-in family campground, not the main campground. The sites are mostly far apart from one another and the area is fairly dense woods leaving you feeling a peaceful solitude," explains Kate W. about Hocking Hills.
Trail difficulty levels: Terrain ranges from moderate to challenging with elevation changes. "I only came here for a 2 day backpacking trip and it was kid of hard. I'm a backpacker and this was tough. There is clear trails and a lot of rocks to climb on top of," notes kevin T. about Zaleski trails.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location with some areas having minimal coverage. "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect. Friendly staff," points out Daniel about camping at Lake Hope State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites based on bathroom proximity: Some campgrounds have widely spaced facilities. "The sites were quiet and clean! Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! All in all we had a blast and a good laugh about our trek with all our stuff!!" advises Amanda P. about her Hocking Hills experience.
Check for educational programs: Ranger-led activities provide learning opportunities for children. "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. about special programs at Lake Hope.
Consider site location carefully: Campsite terrain can present challenges for setting up family equipment. "Lake Hope was super crowded and the sites felt like they were literally on top of each other. It also was not super clear on which site was which. Our site was on a hill, but there were 2 sites, one at the bottom and one midway down so we had to ask," explains Rachel H.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant adjustment to level RVs properly. "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," warns Daniel about Lake Hope.
Size restrictions: Larger rigs may have difficulty at certain campgrounds. "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," notes Marshall P.
Horse-friendly camping options: Several campgrounds accommodate equestrian needs with various amenities. "We stayed in one of the small cabins and loved it! Very clean, with thoughtful amenities. Hot tub on the back porch. This cabin also comes with two horse stalls. Bridle trail access right from campground," reports CampgroundKaren about Pine Creek Cabins & Camping Resort, an alternative to traditional equestrian camping near New Plymouth, Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near New Plymouth, OH?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near New Plymouth, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near New Plymouth, OH is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 109 reviews.
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What is the best site to find equestrian camping near New Plymouth, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 equestrian camping locations near New Plymouth, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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