The Hocking Hills region surrounding South Bloomingville sits within the Allegheny Plateau at elevations ranging from 900-1200 feet. The area features sandstone cliffs, hemlock-filled ravines, and seasonal waterfalls that flow strongest during spring runoff. Summer temperatures typically reach the 80s during day with cooler nights in the 60s, while fall camping season brings colorful foliage and temperatures ranging from 40-70 degrees.
What to do
Fishing access: At Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds, campers can fish and kayak at the property's lake. "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, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room and very pleasant staff," notes Mitchell C.
Waterfront activities: The Hocking River offers swimming and paddling opportunities near many campgrounds. "This small and cost effective campground is so awesome! The river is small and is perfect to have a fire right next to. We also just went up the highway a little to a rafting rental place called murrys landing to raft down the river," shares Aysia C. about Hocking River RV Park.
Hiking access: Several campsites connect directly to trail systems. "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. about Hocking Hills State Park Campground. For more secluded hiking, Palmerosa offers trails for both hikers and horseback riders.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Newer shower facilities are appearing at campgrounds throughout the region. "The new shower house at the office is great! You have your own shower, toilet and vanity in a locked room!" shares Chad B. about Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground.
Family amenities: Kid-friendly features rank high in camper reviews. "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," notes Mitchell C. about Hilltop Resorts. The recreational options extend beyond standard camping activities.
Waterfront sites: Several campgrounds offer sites directly along the Hocking River. "So beautiful! Perfect right on the river... decent shower houses... peaceful little campground," writes Shianne G. Another camper notes: "Not many sites. Sites 26 and 27 are real small and private. Big enough for a pop up. Water filling and black water dump. Electric. Close to river."
What you should know
Highway noise: Some riverside rv sites near South Bloomingville, Ohio experience road noise. "Right on the river, which is interesting, but it's also right alongside State Route 33, so you hear freeway traffic constantly. Trucks and motorcycles woke me up all night, AND there is a train track right across the river (about 200 yards away)," reports Megan M.
Reservation requirements: Many Hocking Hills State Park Campground sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Reservations only, most sites are level and spacious. There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)," explains Meghan H.
Variable cell service: Connectivity changes dramatically with terrain throughout the region. Some campers report spotty reception in valley areas, while hilltop campgrounds generally offer better coverage. Many campgrounds provide WiFi near their office areas, but service rarely extends to all campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom proximity: Choose sites near facilities when camping with children. "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," notes Jenny K. about Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Entertainment options: Walnut Creek Campground and Resort offers multiple family activities. "Great time! Has fishing, kayaking, golf cart trails, volleyball set up, basketball court, swimming pool and super nice cabins," shares Kelly W. These amenities provide alternatives when hiking weather turns poor.
Site selection: Some campgrounds have limited play areas. "Figured we'd bring some swim suits since it's on the river but there really wasn't any way to the river as the bank was about 5 feet up. The bath house was nice though. No playground which made camping with kids very uneventful for them," explains Bryatt S. about one campground.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some RV sites near South Bloomingville have tricky approaches. "Staff is very friendly and we got a nice pull through site for a quick stop over my way to upper Michigan. There's a really nice pond and has water activities if you stay longer. Easy in/out," notes Bucky W. about Lakeview RV Park.
Campsite leveling: Many sites require adjustments for larger rigs. "Most sites are level and spacious," reports Meghan H. about Hocking Hills State Park Campground. However, another camper notes: "Ironically, we stayed at the worst campsite there, it was downslope, and they had recently cut down many trees and the site was a muddy mess."
Site selection for rig size: Smaller campgrounds may have limited options for larger RVs. "Electric hookup only. Shower and restroom facility provided very clean and orderly campsite also very clean," reports Bill V. about Hocking River RV Park. Sites at Hilltop Resorts tend to be more spacious, with "Super spacious sites and very peaceful. This is a top-notch camping resort," according to Victor R.
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