Blue Rock State Forest encompasses 4,579 acres of southeastern Ohio woodland with elevations ranging from 730 to 950 feet. The area features mixed hardwood forests with beech, maple, and oak predominating across rolling hills. Winter camping often sees temperatures below freezing, with summer highs typically reaching the mid-80s. Cell service remains limited throughout much of the park, with stronger signals near the lake and campground entrance areas.
What to do
Kayaking on the lake: Burr Oak State Park offers multiple water activities near Blue Rock. "The lake is awesome. There are adequate shower facilities. Bring your own firewood. The firewood at the campstore is less than amazing," reports Sarah G. The park features boat rentals including kayaks and pontoons.
Beach swimming: Seasonal swimming options provide relief from summer heat. "They have a nice beach and the lake is awesome," notes Sarah G. about Burr Oak State Park. Water clarity varies throughout the season, and some beaches may close temporarily due to bacteria levels after heavy rainfall.
Geocaching adventures: The area contains numerous geocaches along the trail systems. According to Leon H., "Lots of geocasches in the area on the trails in Wayne national forest." Beginners should download the geocaching app before arrival due to limited cell service on many trails.
What campers like
Creek-side relaxation: Blue Rock State Park Campground offers sites with water features. "We had a secluded site right beside the creek. The only negative was no flush toilets, only pits and so sink to was hands, but there was hand sanitizer at least," shares Nicole C., highlighting one of the primitive camping options.
Covered pavilion sites: Unique sheltered options exist for tent campers concerned about weather. Shelly S. notes, "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." These sites fill quickly during rainy seasons.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Blue Rock support diverse animal populations. Ryan W. from Blue Rock State Park reports, "Lovely park near Zanesville. The park is beautiful, lots of wildlife, and the trails were great." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains minimal throughout most camping areas. "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect," reports Daniel about Lake Hope State Park Campground, located within driving distance of Blue Rock.
Bathroom facilities vary: Toilet options differ significantly between camping areas. Nicole C. notes about Blue Rock, "The only negative was no flush toilets, only pits and so sink to was hands, but there was hand sanitizer at least." Newer flush toilets can be found in specific areas: "The remodel a few years ago added nice bathrooms over in the group camp area up against the base of the dam," according to Ryan W.
Fire tower access: Ryan W. mentions, "The hiking was wonderful, the equestrian trails looked very nice, and the fire tower was a fun climb." The tower provides expansive views of the surrounding forest but requires sturdy footwear for the climb.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: The stream running through the campground offers natural play opportunities. "There is a creek running through the main primitive campsites below the dam, with minnows and crawfish for the kids to catch," shares Ryan W. from Blue Rock State Park. Bring small nets and containers for temporary critter observation.
Naturalist programs: Dillon State Park offers educational opportunities within driving distance. "The people in the office are very nice," notes Ron A. Scheduled activities typically run weekends during summer and include wildlife presentations and guided walks.
Avoid peak bacteria seasons: Water quality affects swimming options. "The beach was a little dirty from the geese, but that didn't slow anyone down on swimming," Ryan W. reports about Blue Rock State Park. Check with park offices about current water conditions, especially after heavy rains.
Tips from RVers
Limited level sites: Walkabout Creek Horsemans Camp and Campground offers equestrian camping near Blue Rock. "Great great campground plenty to Joe we took the horses had a blast," shares Cheryl C. RVs may struggle with uneven terrain throughout the area's campgrounds.
Electric-only hookups: Most RV sites in the region provide limited utilities. "Only Electric available at each site. Shower/bathroom facilities look to be from the 70's," Gary O. reports about Dillon State Park Campground. Bring sufficient water and plan for dump station use when departing.
Horse trailer accommodation: "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around. Only complaint would be the non equestrians staying in the equestrian area," notes Janessa S. about the Blue Rock State Park equestrian campground. Advance reservations recommended for horse campers, especially during hunting seasons when sites fill more quickly.
