Chillicothe, Ohio serves as a gateway to several established campgrounds offering diverse accommodation options. Scioto Trail State Park Campground, located within city limits, provides tent and RV camping with amenities including electric hookups, drinking water, and trash disposal. Sun Valley Campground and Walnut Creek Campground and Resort expand the options with cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping areas. Within a short drive, campers can access Tar Hollow State Park and Hocking Hills State Park, both offering more extensive trail systems and varied terrain. Most campgrounds in the region maintain year-round operations, though amenities and services may be limited during winter months.
Reservations are strongly recommended for developed campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and fall color season. Many campgrounds feature both reservable and non-reservable sites, with the latter filling quickly on weekends. Water and electric hookups are common at established sites, while primitive camping areas typically offer vault toilets and communal water sources. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with coverage becoming increasingly spotty in more remote areas like Zaleski State Forest. The terrain ranges from relatively flat campgrounds to more challenging hilly areas in the state forests. A visitor noted that "Autumn is the best time to camp in Ohio" with pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage enhancing the experience.
Campers consistently rate water access as a significant factor in site selection, with lakefront campgrounds receiving higher ratings. Paint Creek State Park Campground and A.W. Marion State Park Campground both feature lake access for fishing and non-motorized boating. Several visitors mentioned appreciating the mix of outdoor activities available, including hiking, fishing, and paddling opportunities. The proximity of campgrounds to natural features like caves and rock formations in Hocking Hills draws many visitors, though this can lead to crowding during peak seasons. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers seeking more solitude might prefer the less-visited Tar Hollow State Park or Lake Hope State Park, where one reviewer described it as "the unsung hero of Logan county" with fewer crowds than nearby popular destinations.
$20 - $70 / night
"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."
$27 - $75 / night
"The campground is about 2-3 acres large, situated on a hill with a path dug out around the perimeter. "
"The drive there was a very interesting tour of trump flags Amish buggies and more. Would come back if I was stranded in Ohio, but overall great pit stop for cleaning up on a long journey."
$35 - $60 / night
"We chose to camp at Scioto Trail State Park because of it's proximity to Salt Creek Kayak Adventures. While I had hiked at Scioto Trail in the past, this was our first visit to the campground."
"Walk-in sites with pit toilets and potable water. The map of how the sites are laid out online is extremely inaccurate, I would not have picked my site if it had been accurate."
$25 - $40 / night
"They had a scavenger hunt which made us really experience the nature around us, going through the woods off trail, going to the lakeside, walking around looking for different things on a list."
"Marion State Park on this particular weekend because it's relatively close to home (Columbus area)."
"We were able to reserve a drive-thru site on the same day we wanted it. It looks like there are quite a few seasonal campers there. Sites have space between them, many are shaded. "
$37 - $60 / night
"Cute, charming Ohio State Park. Enjoy 4 lovely hiking trails that showcase the parks features by taking you through the woods and fields. Fish is offered and their is boat dock ."
"An excellent disc golf course, hiking and beautiful lake views. Just past the town of Bainbridge, Ohio is Seip Mound to explore and hike the trails."
$39 - $52 / night
"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."
"There is a short walk to a comfort station and the shower house is just a few more steps. Both were kept clean even in this busy park."
$33 - $200 / night
"Ranger Review: Morsel Spork at Pike Lake State Park Campground Review:
We stayed at site 67 next to the camp host. The camp site was nicely shaded with a small creek behind it."
"The lake is smaller, but nice beach area and pedal boats are fun. We hiked the Greenbriar and CCC Trails. They are not too challenging but beautiful."
"Nice scenic drive to campground only 7 miles off of Hwy 35. No"
"Has fishing, kayaking, golf cart trails, volleyball set up, basketball court, swimming pool and super nice cabins."
ScoutTHIS IS AN RV CAMP. They have tent sites but they are just squares of gravel/wood. Our site was placed just feet from the ROAD you turn off of to enter the campground. Ridiculous and incredibly overpriced for what you get.
TravelerGreat quiet area. Can sit and listen to the birds singing and the breeze rustling the leaves. Somehow we were lucky enough to book the only pull through site and it had full hookup on top of that. The woman that checked us in said it’s the most popular site they have because of this reasons. If you have little ones with you, they have a really nice nature center that’s open Friday and Saturday
ScoutStayed at this small campground. Proof good things can come in small packages. Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level. My review is biased a bit, 1st night I was literally the only person camping. Plenty of nearby trails. Since it was so quiet in campground I saw wildlife like deer, turkeys, and they must have a resident pileated woodpecker because I keep seeing it. Branson (staff) who checked me in was very friendly and helpful. Three shower/bathrooms are very nice up by the office. They also have some outhouse style bathrooms further back in campground. Would definitely stay again if I can snag a site.
GuideIts free so worth it but i would not stay here again. Its not too “dispersed” its more of a parking lot + atvs driving all day if your sensitive to noise. Oh its also raining ticks here. Stayed for one night.
GuideThis is a one night stop on our way to Myrtle beach. Very nice place. We’re at site 17 with a KOA patio. Rolling hills, friendly staff. Great pizza, wings and fudge. I want to come back and spend more time here! AT&T one bar. KOA WiFi ok but expect pauses if you stream video. Steep and narrow road to enter the park.
TravelerNice and quiet. Bathroom was locked. Only one other person here. 10/10 recommend
TravelerRelatively flat; during OHV off season, one of the roads is closed, I believe to Dorr Run. This trailhead is mainly for OHV riders so there is space for a vehicle and trailer.
NOTE: I think they close the toilets every winter.
Ground is covered in snow, so I would scout it in the summer. Several parking areas along the road.
ScoutWe had a family reunion there, our camper and rented 2 cabins, made full use of the shelter house that day. It worked out so well we are booking again this year.
ScoutWas a cool view at the top where the space is.
Close to hocking hills and Logan, right off 33 so it was easy to find
The terrain surrounding Chillicothe, Ohio ranges from rolling hills to densely wooded valleys with elevations between 600-1,200 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Primitive camping areas typically require hikers to carry gear up to 150 yards from parking areas to reach established campsites.
Hiking with elevation changes: Pike Lake State Park Campground offers multiple trails with varied terrain. "Parts of the CCC trail were overgrown with briars and narrow," notes Leon H., while another visitor mentions that "We hiked the Greenbriar and CCC Trails. They are not too challenging but beautiful."
Paddling on smaller lakes: Several campgrounds offer water access for non-motorized boating. At Pike Lake State Park Campground, "There is a small lake with a beach. You can kayak, but it's really small," explains Shannon G. The lakes are typically under 100 acres, making them perfect for beginners.
Creek exploration: Waters Edge Canoe Livery provides access to local waterways. Jonathan W. describes it as a "Very fun place to camp and enjoy the creek on a kayak or canoe. Very friendly staff, and one of my favorite places to go."
Walk-in tent camping: For those seeking more seclusion, Tar Hollow State Park Campground offers a primitive experience. "The north ridge campground is in an entirely separate area of the park than the RVs and there aren't many campsites, so in that way it feels a little more remote and secluded," explains Sydney.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer larger sites for those wanting more room. At A.W. Marion State Park Campground, Cassandra C. found that "Site #9 is probably the biggest in the primitive section. This site has plenty of room for a few small tents."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being rustic, many campers appreciate the clean amenities. At Scioto Trail State Park, Anna S. noted, "Walk-in sites with pit toilets and potable water. All sites appeared to have a picnic table and fire ring. Many miles of trails/dirt roads for hiking and biking."
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for connectivity issues. At Scioto Trail State Park Campground, Aaron S. mentioned it's "a nice campground. We camped three times this summer and fall. The set-up is good. There are at least three water spigot, and they are easy to get to."
Variable site quality: Campsite conditions can differ dramatically within the same campground. At Pike Lake, Kristin L. observed that "It rained the first day we were there and people were literally bailing there sites out with buckets. The places that weren't flooded were very muddy."
Bathroom facilities: Know what to expect with facilities. At Tar Hollow State Park, Sydney explained, "The bathrooms are pit latrines. However…these are some of the dirtiest I've experienced. The bathrooms are also very narrow and perhaps most importantly, they are not lit."
Playground accessibility: Some sites offer immediate access to play areas. At Pike Lake State Park, Shannon G. noted their site was "right across the site is the playground. It's a little noisy but if you have kids, it works."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer ranger-led activities. Jonathan W. described Tar Hollow: "There is a small two-room nature center, and there is a naturalist who conducts several activities. In past years we've been able to let the kids go off with the naturalist on an hour+ guided hike."
Swimming options: Walnut Creek Campground and Resort provides multiple recreation options. Kelly W. noted it "Has fishing, kayaking, golf cart trails, volleyball set up, basketball court, swimming pool and super nice cabins."
Site selection cautions: Many campgrounds have limited level sites. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, Meghan H. reported, "Ironically, we stayed at the worst campsite there, it was downslope, and they had recently cut down many trees and the site was a muddy mess. Every single other campsite they were perfect."
Check hookup availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Sun Valley Campground, Andrew S. notes it "has a lot to offer with electric and water hookups for RVs with back-in and pull through sites. They have a dump station as well as an onsite bathroom/shower house."
Site layout challenges: Some campgrounds have tighter spacing than others. At Hocking Hills, Laura C. observed, "The camping however left a lot to be desired. The sites were extremely close together."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Chillicothe, Ohio?
The Chillicothe area offers several excellent camping options. Tar Hollow State Park Campground is known for its secluded tent sites that provide an immersive nature experience. The North Ridge campsite is particularly popular for those seeking solitude. Another top choice is Scioto Trail State Park Campground, conveniently located near Chillicothe with reservable sites, water access, and toilet facilities. For those willing to venture slightly further, Paint Creek and Pike Lake State Parks also offer quality camping experiences within a reasonable drive. The region's campgrounds are particularly beautiful during autumn when the foliage transforms the landscape.
What is the cost of camping in Chillicothe, Ohio?
Camping costs near Chillicothe vary by facility type and amenities. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, sites typically range from $25-35 per night depending on whether you choose electric or non-electric options. Paint Creek State Park Campground offers competitive rates for both tent and RV camping, with prices generally falling between $20-30 nightly. Ohio state parks maintain relatively consistent pricing, with primitive sites being the most affordable option at around $15-20 per night. Private campgrounds like Walnut Creek and Sun Valley typically charge higher rates ($30-50) but offer additional amenities. Most campgrounds offer discounts for extended stays and may have different seasonal pricing structures.
Are there private campgrounds near Chillicothe for RV camping?
Yes, several private campgrounds near Chillicothe cater specifically to RV campers. Hocking River RV Park offers pull-through spots that can accommodate large rigs up to 43 feet, though some maneuvering may be required. The park features riverside fire rings and basic bathroom facilities. Waters Edge Canoe Livery is another option with drive-in access, water, and toilet facilities for RV campers. Walnut Creek Campground and Resort provides full RV hookups and is big-rig friendly. Most private RV parks in the area offer reservable sites, and many remain open year-round with amenities like water, electric, and dump stations.
Is tent camping available near Chillicothe?
Yes, tent camping is readily available near Chillicothe. Scioto-Grove Metro Park offers weekend tent camping opportunities, though it's closed during winter months. For a more secluded tent experience, Lake Hope State Park Campground provides a quieter alternative to more crowded parks in the region. The park features beautiful surroundings and is less congested than nearby alternatives. Additionally, Walnut Creek Campground and Pike Lake State Park offer tent sites within driving distance of Chillicothe. Most tent sites in the area include basic amenities like fire rings and access to restroom facilities.
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