Zaleski State Forest offers equestrian camping options approximately 90 miles from West Columbia, West Virginia, within Ohio's southeastern region. The forest spans over 28,000 acres of mixed hardwood terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Camping facilities include primitive sites with basic amenities such as pit toilets and water access points at designated areas, though facilities remain minimal to preserve the natural environment.
What to do
Trail exploration: Zaleski State Forest offers extensive hiking options on well-marked paths. "The trails are nice and kept well, campsites are clean and well maintained. At each backpacking camp (3 in total) there is water and a toilet," notes camper Lani R. The trail network includes multiple interconnected loops allowing for various trip lengths.
Mountain biking: Strouds Run State Park provides dedicated mountain biking trails within 80 miles of West Columbia. "Lots of mountain bikers and trail runners frequent the trails. Strouds is a great place to rent a paddle board, kayak, canoe, or pontoon," according to reviewer Lucille W. The park maintains separate trail systems for different user groups.
Water activities: Several lakes in the region support fishing, kayaking and swimming during summer months. Lake Hope State Park features a swimming beach and boat rentals. As Robert R. mentions, "The park has nice camp sites, cabins if you like that kinda thing! But watch out for the FOG on the lake at night! It gets so bad you can't see past the end of your boat!"
What campers like
Historical attractions: The region contains numerous historical sites related to Ohio's industrial past. Lake Hope State Park offers access to Hope Furnace, an iron-smelting remnant. Dave V. explains, "As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day. There is also a swimming beach on the opposite end of Lake Hope...if you just have to get wet."
Rock formations: Multiple parks feature distinctive geological sites. "The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike," notes Dave V. about exploring near Lake Hope. Similarly, at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius, "there's a hidden gem of a cave/overhang along one of the hiking trails," according to Corey M.
Wildlife viewing: The forests provide habitat for numerous species observable from trails. At Zaleski, James W. reports, "There are a great deal of interesting rock formations to check out as well as a few good overlook areas." Campground areas often attract wildlife, with one Lake Hope visitor noting the park offers programs where "they pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!"
What you should know
Water availability: At Zaleski's backpacking sites, potable water requires treatment. "Water is definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case," advises Lani R. Water access points are limited to designated camping areas.
Limited facilities: Most forest campgrounds offer basic amenities. At Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, Justin S. points out, "This is a relatively simple little site with fishing, swimming, and a boardwalk... The camp sites were nicely spread out within the forest." Expect pit toilets rather than flush facilities at more remote locations.
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings excellent conditions while summer can be challenging. Kate W. notes about Hocking Hills, "We stayed in the walk-in family campground, not the main campground. The sites are mostly far apart from one another and the area is fairly dense woods leaving you feeling a peaceful solitude." Winter camping options exist but with reduced services.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose family-appropriate sites with reasonable bathroom access. "The sites were quiet and clean! Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites!" warns Amanda P. about Hocking Hills State Park.
Nearby attractions: Hocking Hills State Park provides family-friendly hiking opportunities within 100 miles of West Columbia. As Bryn S. recommends, "Be sure to visit Conkles Hollow and Old Man's Cave for stunning rock formations and waterfalls. And for an incredibly exciting cave, take a trip to Rock House."
Privacy concerns: Some campgrounds offer better separation between sites. Leon H. notes about Strouds Run, "The Group campsite is larger and has its own pit latrine, parking and picnic tables. We have used it for Scout groups. A swingset is across the road in the main campground."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain challenging for RVs. As Daniel explains about Lake Hope, "Camp sites are very small and 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."
Hookup availability: Electric sites are limited at some locations. "Fairly remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," mentions Leon H. about Burr Oak State Park, where most campsites lack full hookups.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. Marshall P. notes about Lake Hope, "the campground is pretty secluded but beautiful rolling hills. While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain."
