12 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Paddle Creek Horse Camp in the Wayne National Forest near Pedro offers primitive equestrian camping with direct access to bridle trails. The camp serves as a trailhead for horse riders exploring the forest's extensive trail system. Sites accommodate both tents and smaller RVs but lack electric hookups, running water, and modern facilities. Trail users find the camping area basic but functional, with space for horse trailers and room for portable corrals or highlines.
Zaleski State Forest Horse Camp, located about 55 miles north of Pedro, provides another horse-friendly camping option with free primitive sites. The campground offers drinking water and vault toilets but no electrical hookups or shower facilities. Horses must remain tied to trailers or secured on highlines, as there are no permanent corrals available. Both campgrounds require riders to bring all necessary horse supplies, including feed, water buckets, and waste management tools. Most equestrians appreciate the direct trail access despite the rustic accommodations, allowing for extended trail rides without traveling far from their campsites. Water crossings along the trails provide natural watering opportunities for horses during rides.
"The hiking trails are scenic and pretty and the lake while not overly big, is clean and great for swimming(there's a beach) , kayaking, and fishing."
"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."
from $15 - $20 / night
Check Availability"Primitive Site 22 was fantastic, tucked away from everyone and quiet. Greenbo just doesn't have a lot to do if you arent boating. And that's okay. We just wanted a lazy trip anyway."
"Plenty of shade and a huge hill behind our site. Bathrooms were clean. A lot of unsupervised children running around, in the stream and riding bikes."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability"If you're a tent person using Vesuvius as a home base for trail hiking, stick with Iron Ridge."
"Great location to earn some backpacking miles. Feels quite remote, but along the trails there are shelters, bathrooms, trash reciprocals, and other useful hookups."
from $35 - $52 / night
Check Availability"Didn't appreciate the grill in the next site (thought it was too close to us). We were in Site #8. Not sure what all is around here."
"We stayed on the upper end by the veterans cemetery, even though it's close to the pool and playground, it was pretty quiet. Sites were a bit unlevel, but easy to back into."
from $55 - $85 / night
Check Availability"This is a beautiful state park with breathtaking views of creeks along the roadway, wonderful landscape designed by nature, good hiking trails, peaceful campground, and a nice lodge."
"We liked that we could walk to the bathrooms and not have to drive there. We stayed at site 100 and really enjoyed the shade trees."
from $25 - $85 / night
Check Availability"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."
"The equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done."
from $50 - $67 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
from $33 - $200 / night
Check Availability
LegendZaleski 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" :)
GuideThe equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites. The RV sites are under construction and will be some time before they are done. Bathhouse is clean and up to date. The roads are narrow and windy.
TravelerThe Iron Ridge Campground sites are relatively close together; however, the Iron Ridge campground boasts a handful of sites that sit below the road, and, thus, offer more privacy. I didn't camp at Oak Hill, but I have explored it a few times. Even during the week, that campground was packed with campers. If you're a tent person using Vesuvius as a home base for trail hiking, stick with Iron Ridge. The fishing isn't bad at Vesuvius, but the shore access can be crowded, which has resulted in a limited number of keeper fish. The Lakeshore Trail is well-marked and generally nice, but, at times, a bit unkempt in the summer. The lake views are somewhat limited by brush and trail/lakeside growth, but there are still plenty of opportunities to get a good view of the lake. We also hiked the Whiskey Run Trail, which was short and hilly, but conveniently located right off the campground. The Whiskey Run also offers just enough lake access to let your dogs swim or to put a pole in the water. It also passes an impressive rock shelter. The very short (but rewarding) Rockhouse Trail is a right on top of the major lake action (near the boat ramps and beach area). The benefit is a nice rock house at the end, as well as interpretive signage that sheds light on Ohio's iron industry and history.
RangerThis is a beautiful state park with breathtaking views of creeks along the roadway, wonderful landscape designed by nature, good hiking trails, peaceful campground, and a nice lodge. The campground is a bit tight, especially when lots of cars are in visiting the campers, very peaceful though as the night goes on. The road to the lake could use a little TLC. Trails are marked nicely, as well as how to get to the equestrian site, Day use area, pool, lodge, and restaurant. Restaurant was very good buffet and menu items available. Lodge was clean and well kept. Very relaxing state park.
RangerThere'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.
GuidePark was nice, clean and has friendly staff. We liked that we could walk to the bathrooms and not have to drive there. We stayed at site 100 and really enjoyed the shade trees. Showers are small but they work and there are only 3 stalls of toilets and 3 showers ( I believe) in the women’s side- unsure of men’s. Plenty to do, including a playground, pool, miniature golf, bike riding, horse back riding, hiking, etc. All sites have a picnic table and a grate over the fire pit. Water wells are easily accessible and they have washers and dryers as well. Check-in location was a bit confusing but eventually figured it out.
GuideMy daughter and I stayed here last year in late September. We rented a cabin (#4) for a weekend. While not luxurious, the cabin was clean, beds comfortable, AC worked great, functional kitchen and bigger bathroom than I expected. 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. Parts of the CCC trail were overgrown with briars and narrow. The campground looks nice, we plan on bringing our camper next time. Not much nearby, but Waverly has some good eats. Seems popular with horse riders.
RangerSuch an incredible park the family loved exploring the trails, waterfalls, rock formations, and water. Check the schedule for ranger programs. The kids really wanted to go horseback riding but evidently it’s BYOH...bring your own horse LOL. The campgrounds had lovely views and lots of trees. We’d definitely return.
ScoutPrimitive camping and rv space. You can rent a cabin and such. There is a resort. Everything always looks really nice. So many recreational activities, caves, hiking, horses and a lot more. I would really recommend visiting.
Iron Ridge at Lake Vesuvius serves as one of the primary equestrian camping destinations near Pedro, Ohio, located within the Wayne National Forest. The camp sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in the Appalachian foothills, where the terrain features moderate hills and hardwood forests. Camping options in this region accommodate both trail riders with horses and traditional campers, with most sites offering a rustic experience surrounded by forested terrain.
Trail riding with water crossings: Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area offers multiple trails for horseback riding with natural watering opportunities. "Great place to camp and kayak. Must camp 150ft from the trail. No cell service.beautiful park," notes Neal C., highlighting the combination of activities available.
Fishing in stocked lakes: The area lakes provide good fishing opportunities with multiple species. "They have plenty of crappie, bass, and catfish stocked in the lake and there are bait shops close by," says Jackson B. about Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius, pointing out the fishing resources available.
Cave exploration: Located about an hour from Pedro, Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground offers unique geological features. "Lots to do hiking, fishing, caves and caverns to explore. Campgrounds was clean," reports Ron & Bonnie D., noting the diverse activities beyond horseback riding.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at regional campgrounds. "Most of the sites shaded and separated by trees. Love the privacy this provides. Our favorite 'close to home campground'!" says Chris S. about Iron Ridge at Lake Vesuvius.
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Zaleski State Forest offers accessible trails for first-time backpackers. "The trail is diverse and great for beginners and experienced hikers. The campsites have privies, spigots for water, and a lot of different sites for different sized groups," explains Matt S., highlighting the trail accessibility.
Rustic forest setting: The natural environment attracts campers seeking woodland experiences. "I LOVE camping here, unlike a lot of camp grounds they're actually within the woods so you feel like you're actually part of the forest and the nature," Jackson B. shares about Iron Ridge, emphasizing the immersive natural setting.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal to no connectivity. "The campground was a little confusing at first because the sign says next left, when the next left is the out driveway," notes Amanda S. about Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground, highlighting navigation challenges without reliable phone service.
Water pressure variations: Some camping areas have unusual water systems. "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.
Seasonal flooding: Heavy rains can affect camping conditions in some areas. "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," reports Kristin L. about Pike Lake State Park Campground.
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "We enjoyed our stay here. Just an fyi to others- it rained quite a bit and many of the sites got flooded. The ground here doesn't drain well. Some good trails here," advises Bob M. about Pike Lake State Park.
Holiday weekend activities: Special events occur during peak seasons. "Loved the fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites. Camp store had lots of food options and coffee," shares Brooke V. about Ashland Huntington West KOA.
Site selection for kids: Choose locations with easy access to amenities. "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," explains Jay T.
Extension cord requirements: Electric hookups may require additional equipment at some parks. "Not all the sites were full hook up so everyone had to use the four bathrooms," notes Kristin L., emphasizing the need for planning bathroom access.
Unlevel sites: Many horse camps have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Site was NOT very level. On gravel. Picnic tables and fire ring. Didn't appreciate the grill in the next site (thought it was too close to us). We were in Site #8," reports Felicia H.
Water hose length planning: Hookups may be positioned awkwardly at some sites. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites though," advises Ron & Bonnie D. about their experience at Carter Caves State Resort Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Pedro, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Pedro, OH is Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius with a 4.6-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Pedro, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Pedro, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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