The rolling hills of southeastern Ohio surrounding New Lexington feature a diverse array of camping options within a 30-mile radius. Burr Oak State Park Campground and Burr Oak Cove Campground in Glouster provide year-round access to lakeside camping with both developed and primitive sites. Hocking Hills State Park Campground, approximately 25 miles southwest, stands as one of the region's most popular destinations with its distinctive rock formations and caves. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail in Wayne National Forest offers free dispersed camping for those seeking a more primitive experience. Dillon State Park near Zanesville and Lake Hope State Park in McArthur round out the major public lands options, each providing a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations.
Reservations become essential during peak seasons, particularly for weekend stays from May through October. As one camper noted, "It's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio," highlighting the importance of advance planning. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with Verizon typically providing the most reliable coverage in rural areas. Many campgrounds feature a combination of reservable and first-come sites, though Ohio state parks have increasingly moved toward online reservation systems. Weather conditions can change quickly in the hills and valleys, with spring bringing occasional flooding and fall offering spectacular foliage. Winter camping remains available at several parks but with reduced services and winterized facilities.
Campers consistently praise the natural features of the area, particularly the unique geological formations in Hocking Hills. "Lake Hope gave me a new way to experience an area I grew very close to and appreciate but cannot stand the swarms of people," wrote one visitor, highlighting the value of exploring less crowded alternatives. The proximity of water features to campsites represents a common theme in positive reviews, with many campgrounds situated on or near lakes. Bathroom facilities vary widely, from modern shower houses at larger state parks to primitive pit toilets at more remote locations. Fall emerges as the preferred season for many visitors due to moderate temperatures, reduced crowds, and colorful foliage displays throughout the hills.
$20 - $70 / night
"There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."
"If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."
$25 - $55 / night
"Wayne National Forest shares the area with Burr Oak State Park near Glouster, Oh. Wayne National Forest is split into three areas in southeastern Ohio."
"The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike. There is a bathroom across the road and access to water at the entrance of the site. Showers are 15 minutes walk or a quick drive away."
"This is a very nice campground near all of the attractions of Hocking Hills, Ohio. We had full hookups that were excellent, but if we didn't there were several new restrooms throughout the grounds."
"Our site was waterfront and also set away from other sites."
$24 - $160 / night
"I camped at this state park in the very scenic rolling hills of central Ohio on a hot and sunny weekend and was happy to find plenty of shade."
"I have been extremely disappointed with Ohio State Park campgrounds."
"Nice trails to walk. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year."
"Great spot for walk in or hike in camping! There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail."
$10 - $15 / night
"Some sites are close to each other, some are more spread out - see attached map. The ones you need to walk to (3-7) aren’t far - I wish I noticed them when I drove by."
"A friend and I were just traveling through Ohio and needed a place to stay."
$15 - $125 / night
"This is an ideal base camp for riding your motorcycle on the scenic roads in that area of Ohio such as the triple nickel. The owners are very nice people and helpful. "
"This prime location is 15 minutes from the National Park. On site drinking water and firewood available. Book your stay today and leave them some love."
"A short distance further down the road, just after it turns to gravel, at the Old Stone Church trailhead, there are grassy places to back in smaller campers/RVs."
$25 - $35 / night
"Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave...but..."
"Lake Hope has plenty of recreational opportunities for everyone and the campground is close by! The campground is quiet and well kept."
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.
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.
ScoutWe had a family reunion there, our camper and rented 2 cabins, made full use of the shelter house that day. It worked out so well we are booking again this year.
The Wayne National Forest provides multiple camping options near New Lexington, Ohio, with both established campgrounds and dispersed sites available throughout the region. Burr Oak State Park Campground offers developed sites with electric hookups, showers, and RV accommodations, while Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail provides free primitive dispersed camping for hikers and backpackers. Old Stone Church Campground and Pops Place Camping represent smaller, more intimate camping areas with varying levels of amenities. The landscape features forested hills, lakes, and hiking trails that connect many of these camping areas.
Seasonal considerations affect campground access throughout the area, with several locations operating between April and December rather than year-round. Trails can become extremely muddy after rainfall, particularly at Wildcat Hollow where hiking conditions deteriorate significantly during wet periods. Water availability varies by location, with some campgrounds like Burr Oak Cove turning off water in off-seasons (though camping fees decrease accordingly). Most primitive sites lack potable water sources, requiring campers to pack in their own supply. Vault toilets are common at smaller campgrounds, while larger state park facilities offer flush toilets and showers. A camper noted that "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits" at Wildcat Hollow.
Camping areas in this region feature varying degrees of seclusion and amenities. Tent campers seeking privacy often prefer the walk-in sites at Burr Oak Cove Campground, which provide more tree cover and separation than drive-up locations. Several visitors highlighted the peaceful nature of camping in Wayne National Forest, with one reviewer describing Wildcat Hollow as "a great spot to avoid the crowds." Many campgrounds connect to trail systems, allowing hikers to access Burr Oak Lake and other scenic areas. Despite some road noise at certain locations, the camping areas remain relatively quiet even on holiday weekends. Primitive camping areas like Wildcat Hollow offer numerous established sites with stone fire rings along hiking loops, though water sources are limited and not recommended for filtering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near New Lexington, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, New Lexington, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 141 campgrounds and RV parks near New Lexington, OH and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near New Lexington, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near New Lexington, OH is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 109 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near New Lexington, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near New Lexington, OH.
What parks are near New Lexington, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near New Lexington, OH that allow camping, notably Dillon Lake and Wayne National Forest.
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