Campgrounds near Zanesville in southeastern Ohio range from developed state parks to private facilities with cabin accommodations. The area includes Dillon State Park Campground, located in a heavily forested setting approximately 10 miles west of the city, which provides electric hookups for RVs alongside tent camping opportunities. National Road Campground and Wolfie's Campground offer full-service amenities including water, electric, and sewer hookups. Blue Rock State Park Campground, situated south of Zanesville, features both RV and tent sites with some unique covered pavilion areas that serve as rain protection for tent campers. Several facilities in the region provide cabin rental options for those seeking accommodations beyond traditional camping.
Most campgrounds in the Zanesville area operate seasonally, with peak availability from March through October, though several remain open year-round. Dillon State Park and Blue Rock State Park maintain winter camping options with limited services during cold months. Campground roads generally accommodate standard vehicles, though sites at state parks can become muddy after rainfall. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods when occupancy rates increase significantly. Cell phone coverage varies throughout the region, with some areas experiencing limited connectivity. One camper noted that "Dillon Lake State Park is located about 10 miles west of Zanesville, OH in a heavily forested area. There is no road noise from the local route 146 used to access the campground."
Public land camping areas typically feature picnic tables, fire rings, and access to vault toilets, while developed campgrounds provide shower facilities, laundry services, and camp stores. Campers frequently mention the peaceful settings and proximity to water recreation as highlights of staying in the area. Muskingum River State Park Campground offers boat-in camping options along with standard sites, providing direct river access for fishing and water activities. Many campgrounds in the region maintain playgrounds, basketball courts, and hiking trails for recreation beyond water activities. A reviewer described Blue Rock State Park as "a beautiful hidden gem campground" with "lovely park near Zanesville" offering "lots of wildlife, and the trails were great." The combination of water recreation at lakes and rivers alongside wooded settings creates diverse camping experiences throughout the area.
$24 - $160 / night
"Dillon Lake State Park is located about 10 miles west of Zanesville, OH in a heavily forested area. There is no road noise from the local route 146 used to access the campground."
"There weren’t many people around at all which was kinda nice. They do have an awesome laundry facility with commercial washers. I definitely took advantage of that."
$48 - $75 / night
"Not far from I-70, near the river, quiet and clean… almost too quiet."
"Doesn’t make sense to have quiet time at dark when bar nearby plays loud music outside till late."
$23 - $50 / night
"Blue Rock State Park is outside Zanesville, Oh off I70. Rt 60 takes you South and then you have a choice of routes in. Good Ohio farmland scenery."
"Lovely park near Zanesville. The park is beautiful, lots of wildlife, and the trails were great."
"Up front drive thru spots abound. They love pets and keep the grounds immaculate. Small salt water pool, game roomband playground keep kids busy. A little piece of paradise."
$24 - $52 / night
"**Salt Fork State Park of Ohio is for individual, couples or group camping. Salt Fork lake is natural spring fed water supply that fills this lake."
"Backed up to the woods, has a view of the lake, shade, privacy, hammock trees, medium size, electric, bathroom directly across the street, water and grey water dump directly across the street."
$23 / night
"Nice spot on Muskingum River, north of Zanesville, Ohio; adjacent to historic lock 11 (no longer operational but locks down river are). Bathroom but no showers. Only water is in bathroom."
"It's not listed on maps, but it is right across the way from hook lake, there is an access road you'll go on that will take you there. It's right off 83 in McConnellsville, outside Caldwell, ohio."
"Very secluded, perfect for those nature lovers looking to get away from it all. No cell service and very little light pollution at night so perfect for looking at stars."
ScoutSite 18 was a little tight to back in our 32’ fifth wheel due to a river rock swale across from the site but I is a good site with no neighbors on your camp side.
ScoutThe site is full hook-up. 30/50 amp. This site is partial tree covered and at the end of the loop. Shower house very short walk across the road. Trash dumpster across the street. This is a short site 23 foot max for RV. Has a double pad with concrete Picknick table area. Best spot on C loop.
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.
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.
GuideWe come back to MW each year and try to get the same sites (323-322) as they are very private with access to the water while still being super close to the store and walkable to the bathrooms:showers.
We love how peaceful it is and the play areas for kids. We’ll bring kayaks for the river which is cool but the last time it was too cold.
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.
Zanesville camping sites sit within rolling hills of southeastern Ohio's Appalachian Plateau, typically ranging 800-1,000 feet above sea level. The area receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush surroundings but occasionally challenging camping conditions after heavy precipitation. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing between November and March, making seasonal camping restrictions common throughout the region.
**Wildlife observation: Dillon State Park Campground offers extensive deer watching opportunities. "The deer are plentiful and beautiful," notes Andrea H. The park's heavily forested areas provide natural habitat for various wildlife species accessible from camping areas.
Fishing in stocked ponds: National Road Campground maintains two ponds in the center of the grounds stocked with fish. Terry F. mentions, "The ponds are stocked with fish and because it is private land no fishing license is required." This makes it convenient for campers wanting quick fishing access without purchasing additional permits.
Hiking trail access: Beyond water recreation, campers can explore marked trails throughout the region's parks. According to Ryan W. at Blue Rock State Park Campground, "The hiking was wonderful, the equestrian trails looked very nice, and the fire tower was a fun climb." The park's trail system accommodates both casual walkers and more serious hikers.
Salt water pool facilities: Several private campgrounds offer swimming alternatives to lake recreation. At Wolfie's Campground, Theresa notes there's a "Small salt water pool, game room and playground keep kids busy. A little piece of paradise." These facilities provide swimming options when lake conditions are unfavorable.
Secluded camping sections: Many campers appreciate finding quieter areas within larger campgrounds. John L. recommends at Dillon State Park Campground, "Go to the back of the campground. It is very quite." Similarly, sites in Area C are noted as the most secluded area according to reviewers.
Affordable cabin alternatives: For those seeking shelter beyond tent or RV camping, cabins provide economical options. Renée C. shares about Dillon State Park, "Great place to rent a cabin! Inexpensive and always a pleasant stay." These structures offer protection from unpredictable weather without resort-level pricing.
Bathroom facility variability: Campground restroom quality varies significantly throughout the region. Nicole C. notes about Blue Rock State Park Campground, "The only negative was no flush toilets, only pits and no sink to wash hands, but there was hand sanitizer at least." Some parks maintain newer facilities while others use older pit toilets.
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites across the region require equipment for leveling. Gary O. observes at Dillon State Park, "Many sites are not level. Many sites have NO shade. Only Electric available at each site." Preparation with leveling blocks is advisable.
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains spotty throughout camping areas near Zanesville. Campgrounds in more remote locations typically have minimal to no cellular reception, particularly in valleys and heavily wooded areas.
Kid-friendly water features: Beyond swimming areas, some campgrounds provide specialized water activities. Jordan N. mentions at National Road Campground, "We enjoyed fishing as well as watching our child on the playground and splash pad!" These additional water features entertain children when swimming isn't practical.
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks offer naturalist programs during peak season. Ryan W. found at Blue Rock State Park that "the activities with the naturalist (Cayden) were fun and engaging," providing structured learning opportunities about local ecosystems.
Creek exploration for children: Sites with shallow water access offer safe nature interaction. Ryan W. also notes at Blue Rock that "There is a creek running through the main primitive campsites below the dam, with minnows and crawfish for the kids to catch," creating natural entertainment without extensive planning.
Site selection strategy: When possible, investigate campground layout before selecting sites. Brian B. advises at Dillon State Park Campground, "Area C is the most secluded area. All RV sites have 50A/30A electric. Limited sites have full hook-up." Researching specific site locations improves camping experience.
Water access planning: RVers should note water spigot locations when choosing sites. Linda B. cautions, "We were by a water spout and every time an RV/Trailer came in they of course had to fill up. Check a campground map and try to avoid these sites." High-traffic water access points create consistent disturbance.
Off-season accommodation: Some campgrounds maintain limited year-round availability for RVs. Steve E. at Wolfie's Campground notes the entrance can be challenging: "The only challenge is you don't want to meet a rig going out while you're coming in." Winter campers should call ahead for specific site accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Zanesville, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Zanesville, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 156 campgrounds and RV parks near Zanesville, OH and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Zanesville, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Zanesville, OH is Dillon State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Zanesville, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Zanesville, OH.
What parks are near Zanesville, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Zanesville, OH that allow camping, notably Dillon Lake and Wayne National Forest.
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