Dispersed camping options near New Lexington offer varying levels of seclusion amid the Wayne National Forest's rolling hills. The region sits within Appalachian foothills at elevations between 700-1100 feet, featuring mixed hardwood forests with distinctive sandstone formations. Cell service varies significantly throughout the hollows and ridges, with most campgrounds experiencing limited connectivity outside major sites.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Logan: Campbell Cove Camping provides access to Lake Logan, where paddlers can enjoy calm waters. "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," notes camper Ann H., who frequently visits the area.
Winter camping options: Unlike seasonal sites, Burr Oak State Park Campground operates year-round. "We actually stayed at the lodge and it was lovely. We would hike around during the day and swim inside as it was before spring. Lots of great trails. We hope to come back and back pack one of the trails," shares reviewer Kenpocentaur K.
Hummingbird viewing: Lake Hope State Park offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "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!" explains Chris C., highlighting this family-friendly nature activity.
What campers like
Motorcycle-friendly camping: Pops Place Camping serves as an ideal base for motorcycle enthusiasts. As David M. explains, "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. The porta john and shower were very clean."
Proximity to hiking trails: Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers immediate trail access. "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave," notes Elana C., emphasizing the convenience for hikers.
Waterfront camping: Some campsites at Hocking River RV Park sit directly beside the water. "This small and cost effective campground is so awesome! The river is small and is perfect to have a fire right next to," says Aysia C., who appreciates the riverside setting for evening campfires.
What you should know
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: At Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed camping, facilities are minimal. Steve C. advises, "The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping. The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys."
Shower house locations: At some campgrounds, shower facilities require planning. Megan M. notes about Hocking River RV Park: "The shower house is up on top of this steep hill, so you'll need a flashlight to get there in the dark."
Water safety concerns: Be cautious about water sources at dispersed sites. At Wildcat Hollow, a camper reports: "While there is water in the valleys I wouldn't use it even with a filter. There are signs posted at the trailhead that advise against it."
Tips for camping with families
Off-season activities: For families visiting in colder months, look for indoor options. At Burr Oak, "We actually stayed at the lodge and it was lovely. We would hike around during the day and swim inside as it was before spring," reports one visitor who found ways to keep children entertained during winter.
Playground availability: Campbell Cove Camping offers family-friendly amenities. As Brianna L. describes: "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole. The bathrooms are so clean. You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals."
Site selection for kids: When camping with children, bathroom proximity matters. One camper shares about Hocking Hills: "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
Leveling challenges: Many sites in the region have uneven terrain. A Lake Hope visitor advises: "While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain. That said, I would still recommend this as a nice weekend getaway."
Limited hookup options: RVers should note that full-hookup sites are limited in this region. At Burr Oak, one reviewer noted: "The campground could use some updates. There are some really beautiful sites, but there are only a few with electric. The addition of concrete pads and electric would improve the campground considerably."
Accessibility for larger rigs: Be mindful of site dimensions when booking. At Campbell Cove, a reviewer mentions: "There is a narrow cabin you see in some photos is now a gravel pad for RV type camping with electric," indicating the campground has created more accessible spaces for RVs.
