The Hocking Hills region surrounds South Bloomingville, Ohio with dense forests and dramatic sandstone formations at elevations ranging from 600-1,000 feet. Summer camping temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while fall brings cooler nights in the 40s and colorful foliage.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Burr Oak State Park Campground offers access to a scenic lake perfect for paddling or catching fish. "Lots of great trails. We hope to come back and back pack one of the trails," notes a winter visitor. The park includes boat rentals and a swimming beach when the weather's warm.
Explore historic sites: Visit the Hope Furnace near Lake Hope State Park to see remnants from Ohio's iron-producing past. "Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," explains a camper. The nearby Moonville Tunnel, a former railroad passage with reputed haunting activity, sits just a short drive from camp.
Hike lesser-known trails: The 16-mile Logan Trail loop in Tar Hollow State Park offers challenging terrain with significant elevation changes. "Pine lake is a beautiful little spot to fish, rent a paddle boat, or just relax. There is also a pretty spacious beach area," shares a visitor. The park contains Ohio's largest state forest with over 40 miles of bridle trails and 21 miles of hiking paths.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Tent campers at North Ridge Campground appreciate the minimal light pollution. "If you're lucky and have no clouds, there is virtually no light pollution and you can see the Milky Way," reports one camper. Most parks in the region have limited or no cell service, enhancing the disconnected experience.
Yurt camping options: Geneva Hills Camp and Event Center provides unique yurt accommodations for those seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping near South Bloomingville. "Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren't any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp," notes a recent camper. Yurts typically include beds and basic furnishings while maintaining the feel of outdoor living.
Family-friendly activities: Hocking Hills Jellystone Campground offers numerous amenities for families. "Free tricycles to ride around. Bouncy area, lake with a trampoline and activities all the time," reports a visitor. The campground runs scheduled activities throughout the day, especially during summer weekends.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have spotty or no cell coverage. "It is pretty remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," notes a Burr Oak visitor. Download offline maps before arrival and inform others of your whereabouts.
Site variations: Campsite quality varies significantly across the region. At Lake Hope State Park Campground, "the sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded," according to a reviewer. Many sites throughout the area sit on hills or uneven terrain.
Weather preparedness: The area receives significant rainfall, creating muddy conditions on trails and potential issues for tent campers. "The path around the hill allows for great drainage; a huge help if you're camping in rainy weather," shares a Tar Hollow camper. Pack extra tarps and rain gear regardless of the forecast.
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: For larger family gatherings, look into dedicated group sites. "This was such a great place to book a group site. The shelter was perfect for group lunch/dinner area and a nice place to put gear that we didn't want to get wet," shares a Tar Hollow visitor about their group area. These sites typically require advance reservations.
Kid-friendly amenities: Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds provides multiple activities for children. "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," reports a camper. Most family-oriented campgrounds in the area charge activity fees for non-campers.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer naturalist programs during summer months. At Tar Hollow, "there is a naturalist who conducts several activities. 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," explains a frequent visitor. Check with camp stores upon arrival for schedules.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday provides full hookup sites but with varying quality. "Sites are reasonably level, we had to use one 3/4" leveler under the wheels in one side. They have sites that are full hook up with wooden decks," shares an RVer. Reserve early for premium sites, especially during fall color season.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds feature steep grades and tight turns. "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," warns a KOA visitor. Large rigs should research specific approach routes before arrival.
Supply planning: Most campgrounds are 10-15 miles from major grocery stores. An RVer notes, "Not much nearby in the way of supplies," regarding Burr Oak. Stores in Logan and Lancaster offer the most comprehensive shopping, while smaller camp stores carry only basic necessities at premium prices.
