Lake Hope State Park Campground sits within Wayne National Forest in the rolling foothills of southeastern Ohio, approximately 25 miles from Wilkesville. The area features terrain ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet in elevation with mixed hardwood forests covering much of the landscape. Winter temperatures in this region can drop below freezing, while summer months typically see highs in the 80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Visit the Moonville Tunnel near Lake Hope State Park Campground, a remnant of the region's railroad history. "The haunted Moonville Tunnel is nearby and worth the short drive and hike. Unfortunately, it is becoming defaced by disrespectful taggers...still cool nonetheless," notes Dave V.
Hike through fern forests: The trails through this region showcase diverse plant life with ferns covering much of the forest floor. "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," according to a Lake Hope camper.
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to spot native birds and animals. At Tar Hollow State Park Campground, visitors can find unique wildlife experiences. "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.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campers appreciate the quieter alternatives to more crowded destinations. "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. It was a great quiet and spacious campground with solid amenities," shares Lori L.
Water recreation options: Forked Run State Park Campground offers unique aquatic features. "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," explains Andrew S. The park also includes "a man made sandy beach on the lake."
Alternative to standard camping: For those seeking glamping near Wilkesville, Ohio, Top O' The Caves Campground provides elevated camping options. "This Campground was pretty great! My wife and I stayed in a rather large tent site and my parents stayed in an RV site," reports Fred J., who also noted, "There are also a few nice looking cabins!"
What you should know
Campsite layouts vary significantly: At Strouds Run State Park Campground, campers should prepare for some site limitations. "Many of the campsites are situated on pretty intense slopes. 106 wasn't too bad. I would guess 105 is probably the most level site in the campground," advises Sydney.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is spotty throughout the region. "There is no cell service. Enjoy the outdoors! You are off the grid!" notes one visitor to Tar Hollow.
Bathroom facilities differ by park: Facilities range from modern to primitive. "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," reports a Strouds Run camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with activities: Burr Oak State Park Campground offers family-friendly features. "We have stayed here a couple of times in a tent and a class a motor home. The campground is pretty secluded but beautiful rolling hills," reports Marshall P.
Consider glamping options for comfort: Upscale glamping accommodations near Wilkesville provide families with camping comforts. "We stayed in the rustic cabin route. There's a small pond for fishing and a church from the 1800s and all together a beautiful place to walk around," shares Kelli W. about Top O' The Caves.
Look for swimming areas: Kids often enjoy water access during hot summer months. "Our site was right on the water but dock 2 is probably 200 yards from the water. The hiking trails are nice but very muddy after the rain," notes Kelsey R. about Burr Oak State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Hocking Hills KOA Holiday, RVers can find well-equipped sites. "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," shares Vicki H.
Level challenges: Many campgrounds in this hilly region present leveling challenges. "Sites are reasonably level we had to use one 3/4 inch leveler under the wheels in one side," reports Jeffrey D. about the KOA.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "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," notes an RV camper at Hocking Hills KOA.
