The Hocking Hills region near Ray, Ohio sits within the Appalachian foothills at elevations between 700-1200 feet. This area receives approximately 40 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests and distinctive sandstone formations. Campgrounds near Ray typically operate at capacity during October when fall colors peak and temperatures range from 40-65°F.
What to do
Hiking to Moonville Tunnel: Visit Lake Hope State Park Campground where access to historic sites provides unique exploration. "The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike. Unfortunately, it is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers...still cool nonetheless," notes camper Dave V.
Paddling the Hocking River: Under the Stars Campground serves as a convenient base for river activities. Located near Murray's Landing boat rental, campers can float down the Hocking River. One visitor at nearby campgrounds mentioned, "We also just went up the highway a little to a rafting rental place called murrys landing to raft down the river."
Water recreation activities: Lakeview RV Park offers unique water experiences beyond swimming. According to Robin R., the park features "Nice quiet campground! Owners are awesome! Nice level site we were on. Small swimming lake! Canoe rental and jet pack 'skiing'."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers appreciate riverside camping options. At nearby campgrounds, Aysia C. shared, "This small and cost effective campground is so awesome! The river is small and is perfect to have a fire right next to. We also just went up the highway a little to a rafting rental place."
Clean individual shower facilities: Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds receives praise for exceptional bathroom cleanliness. Tiffani C. noted, "The bathroom/shower facility are private individual units and are the cleanest we have ever seen! We will be back!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake Hope State Park offers unique wildlife encounters. Chris C. shared, "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. 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
Cell service limitations: Unlike areas closer to Columbus, many campgrounds have limited connectivity. Lake Hope State Park campers reported, "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect."
Variable shower facilities: Bathroom quality differs widely between campgrounds. At Lake Hope, Daniel recently noted, "Bath house 1 but womens had low pressure, bath house 2 had low to no pressure at times, but were very clean and nice."
Proximity to highway noise: Some rv sites near Ray, Ohio experience traffic noise. Megan M. observed at one campground, "Right on the river, which is interesting, but it's also right alongside State Route 33, so you hear freeway traffic constantly. Trucks and motorcycles woke me up all night."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly attractions: Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground offers unique experiences for families. Timothy M. shared, "I stayed in a cabin and loved this place, the horseback riding is awesome, airplane rock has a view second to none. the box canyon with waterfall is gorgeous."
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer built-in activities. At Hilltop Resorts, Mitchell C. mentioned, "There is a nice sized sand ground play set with swings and 2 slides, an air pillow (blob) putt putt, a trail to the lake, a dog run, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room."
Walking distance to bathrooms: Consider bathroom proximity when camping with children. Jenny K. noted at one campground, "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike. Not good with kids."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many rv sites near Ray, Ohio require leveling equipment. At Lake Hope State Park, one RVer reported, "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 considerations: Walnut Creek Campground and Resort provides easier access for travelers. Mark B. noted, "Did a quick one night stop while traveling. Just what we were looking for. Friendly family owned campground with nice quiet environment. Nice scenic drive to campground only 7 miles off of Hwy 35."
Seasonal operation variances: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. The Hocking River RV Park runs from April through October, while Walnut Creek Campground remains open year-round with 30-amp service, water hookups, and sewer connections for RVers seeking winter camping options.
