Wayne National Forest glamping options range from rustic camper cabins to furnished canvas tents with varying amenities. Sites are situated on hilly, wooded terrain that can challenge tent campers seeking level ground. Seasonal considerations include dense fog on Lake Hope during nighttime hours and limited cell service throughout the region. Water quality varies between locations, with some visitors noting brown or muddy conditions at certain parks.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Forked Run State Park features a popular disc golf course near its swimming areas. "What makes the lake unique at Forked Run is that it contains dime sized fresh water jelly fish. These type aren't able to sting you," notes Andrew S., highlighting the unusual aquatic life that adds interest beyond the course itself.
Fishing access: Multiple sites at Burr Oak State Park Campground provide direct water access. "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," explains Kelsey R., providing specific information about pet-friendly dock locations.
Wildlife observation: The area offers opportunities to view hummingbirds through organized programs. "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!" reports Chris C. from Lake Hope State Park.
Historic exploration: Several glamping sites provide access to regional iron furnace history. "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., connecting camping to local industrial heritage.
What campers like
Off-the-beaten-path location: Lake Hope State Park Campground provides alternatives to crowded Hocking Hills sites. "Lake Hope gave me a new way to experience an area I grew very close to and appreciate but cannot stand the swarms of people," states Lori L., who appreciated the quieter camping experience.
Secluded sites: Some areas offer remarkable isolation even during peak season. "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," notes Dave V.
Family activities: Kountry Resort Campground provides older but functional amenities for families. "There are a lot of amenities but they need updated. The playgrounds need replaced. The activities building had a pool and game room area, which we used a lot. These were dated as well but our kids had a blast," explains Jeremiah S.
Waterfront options: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access from sites. "The campsite is pretty secluded but beautiful rolling hills. While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain," reports Marshall P., noting both the scenic views and practical challenges of the topography.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping sites. "Rural area. Very remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," explains Leon H. about Burr Oak State Park Campground, giving practical warnings for those needing to stay connected.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities quality differs dramatically between parks. "The pit toilets were filthy- covered in flies, spiderwebs and dirt. They look like they have not been hosed out since the 70's," reports Megan M. about Forked Run, contrasting with Hocking Hills KOA Holiday where "Bathrooms were excellent individually separated rooms with showers and toilets."
Site levelness: Many glamping locations feature challenging terrain. "Sites are very bad for tent camping and not the best for RV's. Back ins are sort and most sites have no level ground even for the picnic table or fire ring," warns Bob L. about Forked Run.
Water quality concerns: Several visitors note water clarity issues. "I've never seen such brown water at camp," Jennifer R. mentions about Top O' The Caves, while another camper notes the lake at Forked Run was "pretty brown/muddy" during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Top O' The Caves Campground features traditional camp amenities beyond glamping. "It has mini golf, a pool, park and small game room which is awesome for camping with kids. It offers rustic cabins for those that dont tent camp or have a rv," shares Kelli W., though several visitors note maintenance varies seasonally.
Easy hiking connections: Some sites connect directly to major trails. "The best part is you can walk to ash cave from your campsite! There is a connecting trail right at the front of the campground. It was a fairly simple hike too," explains Kelli W., providing practical access information for families with children.
Seasonal activities: Water recreation options vary by season and location. "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach," notes Larissa C., though she suggests improvements would help attract more visitors to the area.
Nearby towns: Small river communities offer family-friendly options. "We did a couple day trips down to Pomeroy, which is a nice little river town with ice cream, playgrounds, and shops less than five miles from the campground," shares Jeremiah S., providing practical day trip options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday provides varied options for different needs. "From primitive tent sites tucked back in the woods to large RV sites with water/sewer/electric/cable hookups," explains Vicki H., who appreciated the range of amenities available for their fifth wheel.
Access roads: Road conditions leading to some glamping locations require slow, careful driving. "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., providing important context for RV owners.
Hook-up variations: Water access differs between campgrounds. "No water hook ups, but a place to fill your tank behind water fountains," notes Sandra S. about Forked Run, while adding "I do like they have water fountains with faucets every 10-15 sites. As well as grey water dump stations about the same spacing but stagers with the filling."
