Camping options near Ray, Ohio span across the foothills of the Appalachian region with elevation changes creating diverse terrain for tent sites. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, making site drainage an important consideration, particularly at hillside locations like Tar Hollow's North Ridge campground. Primitive and developed campsites offer varying levels of accessibility throughout the region.
What to do
Hiking trail navigation: At Tar Hollow State Park Campground, trails require careful attention to markings. "Trails are not marked well. Thankfully we were not doing a backpacking trip. Beware if you are. We have heard some frustrating on the trail markings. Part of the Buckeye Trail runs through the park," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Pine Lake at Tar Hollow provides fishing access with limited competition during off-peak times. "Pine lake is a beautiful little spot to fish, rent a paddle boat, or just relax," according to one visitor who found the smaller lake size ideal for casual fishing outings.
Water recreation: Lake Hope State Park Campground offers diverse water activities beyond swimming. "At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways... Very nice beach and swimming area. Hiking and horse back riding trails. Canoe/kayak rental," writes a camper who appreciated the range of options.
Paddling experiences: Waters Edge Canoe Livery provides creek access for kayak and canoe trips. "Very fun place to camp and enjoy the creek on a kayak or canoe. Very friendly staff, and one of my favorite places to go," according to a visitor who found the waterway suitable for beginners.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Top O' The Caves Campground offers tent camping with direct trail access to regional attractions. "You can walk to ash cave from your campsite! There is a connecting trail right at the front of the campground. It was a fairly simple hike too," writes a camper who appreciated the convenience.
Wildlife viewing: Primitive campers at Tar Hollow can spot diverse wildlife including protected species. "They also have a thriving Timber Rattlesnake population. Watch your steps," warns one visitor, highlighting the importance of wildlife awareness while hiking.
Digital disconnection: The limited connectivity provides enforced relaxation for many campers. "There is no cell service. Enjoy the outdoors! You are off the grid!" notes one camper about Tar Hollow. Another mentions about Long's Retreat: "Best part is there is no phone service.....everyone has to actually spend time together and it's a great reset!"
Family activities: Long's Retreat Family Resort offers extensive recreation options beyond standard camping. "Swimming, water slides, canoeing, go-cart racing, mini golf, and a full arcade give plenty of variety. Of course, relaxing by the campfire, grilling hot dogs and making s'mores is really what makes the time with the kids special," shares a return visitor.
What you should know
Site terrain challenges: Many campgrounds in the region feature sloped sites requiring careful tent placement. At Burr Oak State Park Campground, "Our site #14 was very hilly but at least it had a tent pad at the bottom of the hill so it was flat where we were sleeping," notes one camper.
Seasonal considerations: Heavy rain can impact camping conditions at certain sites. At Top O' The Caves, "Beware of parking down there if its raining or you expect rain. There were a lot of people, from cars to trucks, that got stuck down that little hill and had to be towed out!"
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms vary widely across the region. At Tar Hollow's tent-only area, "The bathrooms are pit latrines. Normally, I wouldn't be too concerned about this... However…these are some of the dirtiest I've experienced... they are not lit, so you have to make sure you bring your headlamp with you at night."
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Ray, Ohio is available at select campgrounds as an alternative to traditional tent or cabin options. Waters Edge Canoe Livery offers yurt accommodations for those seeking structure without sacrificing the camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Game amenities: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday offers numerous family-friendly activities on-site. "The KOA had a lot of amenities to offer... The pool was wonderful, the bathroom was clean and spacious. The camp store has everything you may need with a Walmart 10 minutes down the road," shares a family who stayed for an extended trip.
Nature programs: Burr Oak offers educational opportunities for children. "In past years we've been able to spend an hour or so at the nature rooms, and then let the kids go off with the naturalist on an hour+ guided hike down the creek to explore for wildlife and plants," reports a camper with children.
Noise considerations: Site selection impacts your family sleep quality. At Tar Hollow North Ridge, "You are right next to your camping neighbors. I have terrible luck and ended up staying next to a very inconsiderate and loud group that included their many dogs... You can hear snoring and other 'nighttime' noises so just be aware others can and will hear you."
Yurt camping for families: When considering yurt camping in Ray, Ohio with children, look for locations with additional amenities. Top O' The Caves combines structured accommodation options with recreation facilities like mini-golf and arcade games that appeal to younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain throughout the region. At 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."
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads requiring careful driving. For the Hocking Hills KOA, "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township, so its completely out of their ability to make improvements."
Hookup availability: While electric sites are common, full hookups are limited in state parks. "It is a state park, so there are some things aimed at kids and there were lots of kids this past week running around looking busy and happy (even the teenagers). The lake has a sand beach and designated swim area," notes a Burr Oak visitor.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from spring through fall with limited winter accessibility. Hilltop Resorts offers extended season camping with water and electric sites available for late season visitors exploring the Hocking Hills area.
