The forested hills around Otway, Ohio sit at approximately 800 feet elevation within the Appalachian foothills, where dense woodland dominates the landscape. Seasonal temperature variations can be significant, with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows often below freezing. Campers find the spring and fall shoulder seasons provide comfortable camping conditions with reduced humidity and fewer insects.
What to Do
Hiking trail exploration: Shawnee State Park Campground offers multiple hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. "Shawnee is amazing for trail running - very rugged, remote, challenging," and "Backpack trail, 23 and 40 miles loops with 7 camping areas, register and enjoy. Equestrians get 70 miles and primitive camping," according to Shelly S.
Fishing opportunities: Rocky Fork State Park Campground provides productive fishing areas. "Great campground... excellent fishing," notes Jeff P., making it ideal for anglers. The lake contains multiple species including bass and catfish, with accessible shoreline fishing areas and boat rentals available.
Cave exploration: Visitors can tour underground formations at Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground. "The park has a lot to do, not just the caves. There's tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see. The caves are great to explore as well. Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something!" writes Chris B. Cave tours typically run daily during peak season with prices ranging from $8-12 per person.
Water activities: Paddling options include canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards at multiple lakes. "The lakes are quite tiny. The one at the campground is more like a large pond- fine for paddling around on a paddleboard for practice," explains Megan M. about Shawnee State Park. Boat rentals typically cost $10-15 per hour depending on the watercraft.
What Campers Like
Remote, quiet locations: The secluded settings appeal to those seeking isolation. At Tar Hollow State Park Campground, campers appreciate the solitude: "It is really, really quiet. We could not hear anyone at the park down below. If you're lucky and have no clouds, there is virtually no light pollution and you can see the Milky Way," shares Jonathan W.
Disconnection from technology: Many sites have limited or no cell service. At Long's Retreat Family Resort, Robin R. notes: "Love no cell reception! Quiet clean and staff (owner) is always pleasant and helpful!" This digital detox becomes a feature rather than a drawback for many visitors.
Amenities for children: Family-friendly facilities make vacation planning easier. "Great campground with super easy access to the trail and lake. The sites are spread apart enough so you aren't right beside someone - and shaded. Well prepared sites with a clearing, fire ring, and a picnic table," mentions Jackie D. about Iron Ridge at Lake Vesuvius.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and grounds receive positive mentions. At Oak Hill Campground, Rebecca F. states, "The restrooms are clean, the sites are well maintained and the lake is close by for some good kayaking and fishing."
What You Should Know
Site selection matters: Campsite terrain varies significantly throughout the region. At Shawnee State Park, one visitor cautions: "NOTE that most of these secluded sites (along the back edge of the campground) are up a flight of stairs. You have to carry all your gear up a hill or stairs to set up. You will not be near your car, which can get annoying."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes. "When we pull in you are welcomed by the big yellow welcome sign! The office is quaint and has a limited supply food and drinks but there is a Dollar General just down the street and a small gas station the other direction for your beverage needs," notes Rebecca F. about Lazy Village Campground.
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds offer basic facilities only. "This is more of a negative of the State Park but the hiking paths are not clearly marked and I am embarrassed to admit I did get lost in the woods. The map they have is in black in white but the park uses a color system," shares Caroline at Tar Hollow State Park.
Seasonal variations: Peak and off-season experiences differ substantially. "We broke our own cardinal rule, don't travel unfamiliar roads at night. We were blessed as the journey to the park was uneventful, but we missed some wonderful countryside," says Bill L. about his experience at Rocky Fork State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Entertainment options: Long's Retreat Family Resort provides multiple activities for children. "We have been going here for the last 6 summers with a big group (nearly 30 kids with us). Everyone always has such a great time and it is the highlight of all the kids summers. The kids can either swim up at the lake (with multiple water slides and a huge floating dock with diving board), the little kids can have fun in the splash pad right at the beach, go carts, rock wall climbing, basketball, arcade and so much more," explains Kristi J.
Site spacing: Consider how close sites are to one another when booking. "Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites. Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path. We stayed in 12. If you don't mind hauling your gear a short distance from your car, sites like this are perfect," recommends Jay T.
Off-grid planning: Many glamping options near Otway require self-sufficiency. "Be prepared to really go off the grid, as there is no phone service out here at all," states a visitor about the area, making it important to download maps and entertainment before arrival.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Electrical and water connections may be far from parking pads. At Carter Caves, Ron & Bonnie D. advise: "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites though."
Site leveling: RVers should bring leveling equipment. "Very nice campground with super easy access to the trail and lake. The sites are spread apart enough so you aren't right beside someone - and shaded," notes Jackie D. about Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius, though Wendi L. adds: "Beautiful place to camp. Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others."
Water pressure variations: Be prepared for inconsistent pressure. "Beautiful place to camp. Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others. We stayed at site 6 which wasn't too difficult to park but the water pressure was extremely high," warns Wendi L. at Iron Ridge, recommending water pressure regulators for RV hookups.
