The Chillicothe area features rolling landscapes within the Scioto River Valley, with elevations ranging from 600-900 feet. Campers access numerous bridle trails throughout the surrounding Wayne National Forest and state parks. Many equestrian campsites offer direct connections to trail systems with varying terrain difficulties.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Great Seal State Park Campground offers hiking trails that lead to significant geological features. "Simple and safe... Fifteen reservable sites via online or phone. Equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers seem to use this park often... A steep hike up Sugar Loaf will wake you up in the morning," notes Michael L.
Paddling opportunities: Pike Lake State Park Campground provides a small lake perfect for novice kayakers. "Love this spot, very secluded and quiet... nice little lake to fish or kayak," explains Buck B. The park also offers rental options for water activities: "We rented a peddle boat but there are canoes and kayaks as well," adds Bonnie L.
Mountain biking trails: Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead accommodates mountain bikers with various skill levels. "Stayed here for two nights. Saturday was super busy, and we snagged the last available spot with a fire ring," shares Taylor P. The area provides access to OHV trails seasonally: "OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Lake Hope State Park Campground features camping areas tucked away in dense forest. "The campground is pretty secluded but beautiful rolling hills. Not many spots, but makes it nicer, minimal noise," remarks Buck B. about the peaceful atmosphere at similar locations.
Wildlife viewing: Zaleski State Forest trails provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018," states Leon H. The forest's diverse ecosystem supports various species throughout the seasons.
Water recreation: Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers multiple water-based activities. "A friend and I were able to kayak on the lake the night of a Friday the 13th moon. It was beautiful," shares Kenpocentaur K. The park features boat rentals and swimming areas: "They do have some tent sites close to the boat ramp area and you can see the lake from those tent sites."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Some horse campgrounds near Chillicothe have basic amenities with improvements underway. At Great Seal State Park: "Although no utilities... there is a shelter, restroom and trash receptacle. Campfires are permissible." This contrasts with the comprehensive facilities at Palmerosa.
Seasonal considerations: Many equestrian camping areas have limited access during winter months. "Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season," notes Doug H. about Dorr-Run. Weather impacts trail conditions significantly in this region.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have poor connectivity. At Shawnee State Park Campground, "There is absolutely no cell service in the Campground. The lodge at the top of the hill has a weak signal, but is better than nothing if you really need to check in with outside world," advises Carrie S.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites carefully: Shawnee State Park Campground offers family-friendly options. "This campground is geared towards families with kids, especially with RVs. It has all of the amenities: electric at most sites, water, flush toilets, showers, laundry," explains Marc H. The campground includes recreational facilities: "They also have a gift shop and miniature golf."
Pack for changing weather: Spring and fall camping requires preparation. "It rained quite a bit and many of the sites got flooded. The ground here doesn't drain well," warns Bob M. about Pike Lake State Park. Weather patterns can shift quickly in the foothills.
Plan educational activities: State parks offer learning opportunities for children. "The trails here are easy and short. The informational boxes and tags that they had on the trees or plants. This is helpful if you have little ones with you," recommends a camper about local trails.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require equipment for leveling. "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," reports Daniel about camping at Lake Hope State Park.
Utility connections: Check available hookups before booking. "Electric site only, full service all full. A bit rough getting RV setup, but pad is fairly level, so easily setup to use slides," shares Johnothan R. at Cowan Lake State Park. He adds: "Has water to fill tanks and Dumping Stations to empty as needed, so great semi-boondocking."
Size restrictions: Some equestrian campgrounds near Chillicothe have limitations for larger rigs. "We were told that the site we'd been assigned was room enough for 52'. Our RV is only 34' so that would be more than enough. We got there and it was maybe 20-24" in length," warns Carrie S. about Shawnee State Park.
