Campers visiting South Bloomingville encounter moderately rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 720 to 1,100 feet in the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau region. The area receives approximately 42 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and seasonal waterfalls. Weekend campgrounds often reach capacity during peak fall foliage season from mid-October to early November.
What to do
Explore Moonville Tunnel: The historic Moonville Tunnel is accessible via a short connector trail from Zaleski State Forest. "We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek," says James W., who recommends taking the south loop trail.
Fish at Lake Logan: Located near Campbell Cove Camping, Lake Logan offers shoreline fishing opportunities. "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," notes Ann H., who regularly camps at this location for the water activities.
Visit Hope Furnace: This historic iron furnace near Lake Hope State Park provides insight into Ohio's industrial past. "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," explains Dave V.
Feed Hummingbirds: Lake Hope's nature center offers unique wildlife encounters. "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!" shares Chris C.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Lake Hope State Park Campground offers solitude not found at busier parks. "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... Whatever the reason, you rarely, if ever, will have to contend with neighbors," writes Dave V.
Flat primitive sites: Tar Hollow's campground features some level tent areas despite the region's hilly terrain. "Site 106 is a great site if you choose to stay here. It is very flat, one of the most flat sites (I think 105 is more flat) and so my night's sleep was great," explains Caroline, noting the rarity of flat sites in this campground.
Game room and activities: Top O' The Caves Campground offers entertainment beyond hiking. "Older campgrounds with a lot of things to do. Put put golf and a fun small arcade, although dated, were great for down times inbetween hikes," shares Jennifer R., appreciating the diversions for rainy days.
Well-marked trail systems: Zaleski State Forest features clear navigation aids for hikers. "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 has completed multiple backpacking trips in the area.
What you should know
Limited phone reception: Cell service is spotty throughout the region, particularly at Tar Hollow State Park Campground. "There is no cell service. Enjoy the outdoors! You are off the grid!" advises Sydney, who recommends planning communications accordingly.
Vault toilets vs. showers: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are pit latrines. Normally, I wouldn't be too concerned about this (you're camping! it's cool to rough it a bit!) However…these are some of the dirtiest I've experienced," warns Sydney about Tar Hollow's facilities.
Weather impacts: Heavy rain can cause problems at certain campgrounds. "Beware of parking down there if its raining or you expect rain. There were a lot of people, from cars to trucks, that got stuck down that little hill and had to be towed out!" Jennifer R. advises about Top O' The Caves.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have less appealing water sources. "The water spigots were well, of course, but you better let it run for a long bit! I've never seen such brown water at camp," notes Jennifer R., suggesting campers might want to bring filters or bottled water.
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible trail options: Big Sycamore Family Campground provides proximity to various difficulty levels of hiking. "Nice little campground right down the road from Lake Logan. Convenient to shopping nearby(Walmart and Kroger) About 10 miles from the caves and trails," explains Ryan D.
Consider cabins for mixed-age groups: Top O' The Caves offers rustic cabins as alternatives to tents. "It offers rustic cabins for those that dont tent camp or have a rv. On this particular trip it was chilly and we were staying with small children so we went the rustic cabin route," shares Kelli W.
Find campgrounds with playgrounds: Families appreciate dedicated play areas at several dog friendly campgrounds near South Bloomingville. "There is a small playground for kids. It is pet friendly. There is a nice sized pool for summer (we camped in October so it was closed for the season)," notes Amber R. about Big Sycamore.
Seek out spacious group sites: When camping with multiple families, specific areas offer better accommodations. "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," recommends Renée C. about Tar Hollow.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday receives praise for site quality. "From primitive tent sites tucked back in the woods to large RV sites with water/sewer/electric/cable hookups. We are first-time owners of a 29 ft Fifth Wheel and got a pull-through site," explains Vicki H.
Challenging terrain awareness: Many campgrounds feature difficult parking situations. "We stayed for a long weekend and had a great time. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The RV sites were a bit narrow, but otherwise nice and shaded," notes Kevin F. about Lake Hope State Park.
Full hookup availability: Campbell Cove Camping offers complete services for larger rigs. "We stayed in one of the rustic cabins. With other family members bringing their RVs. The bathroom facilities were some of the nicest and cleanest we've experienced. My parents had an RV site overlooking the lake," shares Angie J.
Road condition alerts: Access roads can be problematic for larger vehicles. "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 Vicki H. about the Hocking Hills KOA.
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