Janessa S.
Traveler
TravelerBlue Rock State Park Campground — Blue Rock State Park
Equestrian campground
Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around. Only complaint would be the non equestrians staying in the equestrian area
Equestrian Camping near Rockbridge, OH
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Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground features 28 covered stalls with ample space for larger horses alongside 14 water and electric sites. The recently rebuilt horse stalls provide secure accommodations for equestrians exploring the Hocking Hills region. The campground offers 30 primitive tent sites with plenty of shade trees, creating a comfortable environment for riders and their horses. Modern amenities include private shower rooms with individual toilets and vanities. Trail riders appreciate the proximity to Airplane Rock's scenic views and the box canyon with waterfall. The stacked stones location creates a rustic atmosphere that complements the horse camping experience. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near Rockbridge, Ohio.
Located three-quarters of a mile from connecting trails, Palmerosa provides access to Hocking Hills' extensive bridle path network. Horseback riders navigate a narrow road to reach the main trail system, allowing for day-long riding adventures through the region's distinctive geological formations. Zaleski State Forest offers additional equestrian trail opportunities with primitive camping options. The trails lead to notable landmarks including Airplane Rock, which offers panoramic views across the forested landscape. Horse owners should be prepared for varying terrain conditions on the trails, which can become muddy after rainfall. The recently upgraded facilities represent significant improvements over previous conditions, with the older horse corrals and outhouses having been completely replaced. The campground's secluded setting creates a peaceful retreat for equestrians seeking to explore Ohio's scenic woodland trails.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Rockbridge (17)
1. Hocking Hills State Park Campground
"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."
from $20 - $70 / night
Check Availability2. Lake Hope State Park Campground
"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..."
"At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways rather if it’s by tent (the way I prefer) or by camper. It’s a very nice place to have some family fun. Very nice beach and swimming area."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability3. Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground
"Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level."
"The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built! They are amazing and plenty if room for larger horses. "
from $25 - $70 / night
Check Availability4. Burr Oak State Park Campground
"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."
from $25 - $55 / night
Check Availability5. Pine Creek Cabins & Camping Resort
"This cabin also comes with two horse stalls. Bridle trail access right from campground."
from $40 - $999 / night
Check Availability6. Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead
"The second night we only had one tent near us. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
"OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season. Nice place."
7. Zaleski State Forest
"Zaleski State Forest is adjacent to Lake Hope State Park. Off Rt 278 near Zaleski, Oh, true Ohio countryside to enjoy on the way in. Signal is spotty."
"Much of Ohio is flat corn land, so Zaleski is a special place in Ohio. The trail swings close to some homes, which is less remote than out west where I live now, but overall it's nice."
8. Old Stone Church Campground
"Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
9. Deer Creek State Park Campground
"Some are smaller, close to neighbors while other have seclusion with trees. From past experience, if it rains, some of the sites do flood. We had great weather this weekend."
"Enjoy a few hours or the day hiking one of eight trails or all of them. If you have horses take them out on the two loops especially for them. Lodge, campground, cabins so many options."
from $39 - $52 / night
Check Availability10. Dillon State Park Campground
"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."
from $24 - $160 / night
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Drive Time
- 37 min from Columbus, OH
- 1 hr 4 min from Parkersburg, WV
- 1 hr 17 min from Springfield, OH
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Rockbridge, OH
4 Photos of 17 Rockbridge Campgrounds
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Rockbridge, OH
295 Reviews of 17 Rockbridge Campgrounds
Shannon G.
LegendDeer Creek State Park Campground
Small, but perfect site for us
This was a last minute reservation and only available due to a cancellation. The campground was full for the weekend. The campground is pretty big with different types of sites. Some are smaller, close to neighbors while other have seclusion with trees. From past experience, if it rains, some of the sites do flood. We had great weather this weekend. The site we reserved had a hill right next to the passenger side/door side of your camper. If you had a big camper, it might be tight to open your slides and an awning. You most likely would not sit right outside your camper door. In fact, the fire ring is behind the site and up a small hill. We set up our ez-up in the back and out of the way, it worked for us. There was also a path that led you into the playground. Speaking of playgrounds, you will hear a lot of kids if the weather is nice. We were right across from the camp host (very nice lady) and very short walk to the bathhouse. The bathhouse had 4 flushable toilets and I think 3 showers. The showers did not have benches in the stall, only on the outside directly across. With a full campground, the bathrooms were kept very clean with the amount of people using it. We walked around and noticed a lot of bathhouses and another playground. We took a hike that led us to the lodge - it was an in and out and just under 5 miles. On our way back we stopped at the camp store which was well stocked with items you may need or not. There is a putt putt course, frisbee disc course, horse trails, dog park, nature center, golf course and more trails nearby. There are plenty of things to do if you like to keep busy or are trying to keep kids entertained. (The bees and stinkbugs were out and about while we were there.)
Shelly S.LegendBlue Rock State Park Campground
It's moss I think....
Blue Rock State Park is outside Zanesville, Oh off I70. Rt 60 takes you South and then you have a choice of routes in. Good Ohio farmland scenery.
Out of the way, small camping area with basic sites. A cool feature is a few of the sites have pavilion type covered patios that you can pitch your tent in to help stay dry during inclimate weather.
Otherwise the sites are close together. Though there are a few sites that are more off to themselves, they are still wide open with sparse tree cover.
The restroom is basic, the showerhouse is located at the reservoir beach as well as the camp store and boat rental.The staff was very knowledgeable about the area and conversational.
Several trails are in the area, the Horse Camp is up the road. In addition to this area there is the Blue Rock State Forest that offers several out door activities, check out their map and site online.
Dave V.LegendLake Hope State Park Campground
Variety, solitude and immersed in history!
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...
Each time I have stayed at Lake Hope State Park, I have marveled at why there are only a few stray campers in a state park of 190 sites. Granted...I am usually camping during the week...but its a ghost town. Which is fine by me...solitude...peace and quiet.
The main reason is pit latrines...well, that's my guess, anyways. LHSP still has hot showers. I guess because it doesn't have a pool, it doesn't have the crowds. Shoot! I'd stay home if I wanted a pool. Whatever the reason, you rarely, if ever, will have to contend with neighbors.
Trails are superb...tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn. The terrain is undulating but very doable. The campsites are pretty open, so if you did have neighbors...you'd know it. We'd usually snatch up site 98 or 99...or both. No one would usually go that deep into the park. It was private...pit latrine nearby...flat and airy. Foot trails were nearby and the bike trail wasn't too far away.
If you brought your boats...Lake Hope is a nice flatwater paddle. Get there early and watch the water lilies open. Hope furnace is just outside the campground and next to the first "put-in" for the lake. 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.
The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike. Unfortunately, it is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers...still cool nonetheless.
You are plopped down smack dab in the Zaleski State Forest...so pick a trail, any trail.
A short drive away are amazing trails and formations...Old Man's Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Conkle’s Hollow, Rockhouse and Ash Cave. Each one a must see! Give youself time to hike the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of southern Ohio. Not only will you be glad you did...you will want to return year and year!
- LLeon H.
GuideHocking Hills State Park Campground
Most Scenic camping area in Ohio
This is one of the best state parks and in my opinion the most scenic. 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. We have camped here in tents many times over the years. The state park campground is above par compared to others in the Ohio system. The naturalists are great and run many programs even in the off seasons. Fall is the best season, the foliage is awesome. Popular with Boy and Girl Scout groups. Campground has an outdoor pool.
Mary S.LegendHocking Hills State Park Campground
Nice campground with even better hiking and scenery
Old Man's Cave Cave Campground in Hocking Hills State Park is a large campground. At many of the sites, you'll feel like you're in a large campground. If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground.
Choosing a Site
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Study the photo of the site map included here to get a sense of where you might want a site. You'll be able to see electric/non-electric and reservable/non-reservable sites. There's quite a mix of sites and the map has a legend that will guide you.
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A reservation is a good idea. You'll definitely need one on weekends during the summer/fall, or you should arrive by Thursday for a chance for a non-reservable site for the weekend. I've been here in July and mid-September, and the park was crowded. I just keep an eye on reservations on reserveamerica.com.
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Electric sites: I recommend sites 152-163, 164-172, and 141-151 because you are away from the main roads (long straightaways). In my opinion, sites 161-163, 150-151 and 171-172 are the best because you're at the end of spurs off a main road.
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Full hookup sites: Sites 66-70 at the end of the full hookup stretch (24-70) are good.
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Warning about full hookup sites: There's some kind of pumping station behind the sites on the left as you enter so it's noisy all the time. If I wanted a full hookup, I'd avoid sites from #24 up to at least #35 because you're going to have constant noise. It probably doesn't matter when you're inside because units with full hookups typically have closed windows and AC/heat.
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Reservable non-electric sites 81-93: I like #92 and #93 and the first couple at the beginning.
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Non-reservable sites: #1-23 are electric and #76-78 are non-electric.
Amenities
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Picnic table and fire ring at sites
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Swimming pool
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Pay attention to the map if the location of showers and toilets is important to you. There are 3 showerhouses with showers, flush toilets and sinks. For some reason, the floor in the showerhouse near the pool was always wet and dirty even in September when the pool was closed. Other toilets throughout the campground are pit toilets.
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Gray water disposal stations and potable water stations
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Laundry facility near the shower house by the pool
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Dump station
Activities
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Scenery and hiking are what make this park special...and crowded.
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See photos that show a map and descriptions of 8 hiking areas. Some of these areas are outside the park, and you'll need to drive to the trailheads or take a shuttle ($5 fee). Ohio does a good job of consistently marking trails and posting information boards that show where you are and where you can go from your current location.
Cell Phone Service: It's spotty. As you walk around, sometimes you have it and sometimes you don't!
Cool Feature of Ohio Parks
When you use reserveamerica.com, you can participate in a rewards program for Ohio state parks. We were able to apply points to stay free one night out of three.
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- Shelly S.Legend
Zaleski State Forest
Work for it
Zaleski State Forest is adjacent to Lake Hope State Park. Off Rt 278 near Zaleski, Oh, true Ohio countryside to enjoy on the way in. Signal is spotty.
Primitive camping, check in before going and bring your good hiking boots. You will get a work out. There is water to enjoy also and a historical drive if you enjoy learning about the stuff our ancestors did for "fun" :)
Michael L.GuideGreat Seal State Park Campground
Foothills of Appalachia
Simple and safe... Fifteen reservable sites via online or phone. Equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers seem to use this park often. Although no utilities... there is a shelter, restroom and trash recepticle. Campfires are permissible. Hiking trails head off from this park that cover many miles. A steep hike up Sugar Loaf will wake you up in the morning.
Lindsay B.
RangerZaleski State Forest
Zaleski is a gem in Ohio
There's a great loop hike in Zaleski State Forest. High quality trees, nice little hills, cool rock formations. Fine campground for tent-camping (my preferred camping method). Much of Ohio is flat corn land, so Zaleski is a special place in Ohio. The trail swings close to some homes, which is less remote than out west where I live now, but overall it's nice.
Guide to Rockbridge
Rockbridge camping areas sit within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau region of southeastern Ohio where elevation ranges between 700-1,000 feet. The terrain features distinctive sandstone formations, steep ridges, and narrow valleys that create variable trail conditions for riders and hikers. Trail conditions can vary significantly with rainfall, with some paths becoming challenging after wet weather.
What to do
Explore extensive bridle paths: Horseback riders at Zaleski State Forest access miles of trails through varied terrain. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. And there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various tips accordingly," notes James W., who found the geological features memorable. "There are a great deal of interesting rock formations to check out as well as a few good overlook areas."
Visit historic sites: The region contains preserved iron furnace remains and abandoned railway structures. "Hope furnace is just outside the campground and next to the first 'put-in' for the lake. As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," reports Dave V. from Lake Hope State Park. "The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike."
Water recreation options: Several lakes offer boating and swimming opportunities during summer months. At Lake Hope, "We took a couple of the hikes down by the lake and it was great," writes Kevin F. "You can enjoy a day on the water, or rent a kayak or canoe at the local beach area right down the road," adds another visitor.
What campers like
Secluded primitive sites: Many equestrian camping areas near Rockbridge offer primitive camping with basic facilities. Chad B. describes the improvements at Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground: "The new owners of the Palmerosa Campground have put a lot of time and money into this campground! Almost everything has been tore down and rebuilt. The new shower house at the office is great! You have your own shower, toilet and vanity in a locked room!"
Proximity to geological features: The region's sandstone formations create unique camping backdrops. A reviewer at Hocking Hills State Park writes: "Out-of-staters are unaware of the incredible beauty that Hocking Hills brings to Ohio. I can return time and time again and still be in awe of the waterfalls, cliffs and coves of Hocking Hills."
Water views: Some sites offer waterfront locations or easy access to lakes. "We camped at both Dock 3 and Dock 2 with our dog, those are the only two areas that allow pets. At Dock 3 we were right on the water but dock 2 is probably 200 yards from the water," reports Kelsey R. about her stay at Burr Oak State Park.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality of facilities differs significantly between campgrounds. At Dillon State Park, one camper noted: "Shower/bathroom facilities look to be from the 70's." At other locations like Strouds Run, reviews mention "sub par" bathrooms or "There are pit latrines...well, that's my guess, anyways. LHSP still has hot showers."
Weather impacts: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. Robert R. warns about Lake Hope: "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!"
Trail access information: Not all campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. A backpacker at Zaleski notes: "The walk-in campground does NOT connect by trail to any other trails. A car is fairly necessary."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near amenities: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly features. A Hocking Hills visitor advised: "Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! All in all we had a blast and a good laugh about our trek with all our stuff!!"
Check site spacing: Some campgrounds have closely packed sites. Laura C. shared about Hocking Hills: "The camping however left a lot to be desired. The sites were extremely close together and a racoon harassed us for a good part of the night. It was clean and pretty but just a little cramped."
Consider cabin options for equestrian trips: Several campgrounds offer cabins with horse facilities. Timothy M. from Pine Creek Cabins & Camping Resort reports: "I stayed in a cabin and loved this place, the horseback riding is awesome, airplane rock has a view second to none."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring adjustment. Daniel from Lake Hope reports: "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."
Water access planning: Not all sites offer direct hookups. Linda B. from Dillon State Park advises: "No full hookup but potable water available throughout camping circles. We were by a water spout and every time an RV/Trailer came in they of course had to fill up. Check a campground map and try to avoid these sites."
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific needs. "The RV sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded," notes Kevin F. about Lake Hope, while Marshall P. adds: "While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Rockbridge, OH?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Rockbridge, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Rockbridge, OH is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 109 reviews.
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equestrian camping near
Rockbridge, OH?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Rockbridge, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 equestrian camping locations near Rockbridge, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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