Southeastern Ohio's camping spots near Zaleski offer diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The region receives approximately 42 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and occasional muddy conditions on trails. The camping options include both electric and non-electric sites, with varying degrees of privacy depending on location and season.
What to do
Hiking at Moonville Tunnel: Located near Zaleski State Forest, this historic railroad tunnel makes for an interesting day trip. "We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek," shares one backpacker who regularly visits the forest.
Kayaking on Lake Logan: Just 15 minutes from campsites, this 400-acre lake offers rentals and calm waters. A visitor to Campbell Cove Camping notes, "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view."
Explore historic iron furnaces: Ohio's iron-producing past is preserved at Hope Furnace near Lake Hope State Park. "The 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 a frequent camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region hosts diverse wildlife including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. "We have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018," reports a visitor to Tar Hollow State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Backpackers appreciate the remote camping areas on the trail system. "All of the campsites have multiple areas for different hikers and each is relatively secluded from the others so you can be by yourself," notes a Zaleski backpacker.
Reliable water sources: Each established backpacking camp in Zaleski has potable water available. "All campsites have an outhouse and potable water all within easy reach from all camping areas," according to regular visitors.
Less crowded alternatives to Hocking Hills: Many campers value the peace at Lake Hope State Park Campground compared to busier parks. "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," shares one camper who found this alternative preferable.
Dark night skies: The limited light pollution allows for excellent stargazing. "If you're lucky and have no clouds, there is virtually no light pollution and you can see the Milky Way," reports a camper from Tar Hollow State Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Beyond what's mentioned in the existing description, phone coverage is particularly unreliable around Lake Hope. As one visitor warns, "NO SERVICE PLAN ACCORDING make sure you have a map especially to get out of the park!"
Campsite reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially at Hocking Hills State Park Campground. "Reservations only, most sites are level and spacious. There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear," notes a visitor who recommends booking well in advance.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water that requires filtration or treatment. "I've never seen such brown water at camp. This place needs some upgrades and a little attention here and there," reports a camper staying at one of the private campgrounds in the area.
Limited accessibility: Many campgrounds have challenging terrain for those with mobility issues. "You cannot park your car directly at your campsite. There is a parking lot at the bottom of the campground hill. You have to carry your items to your campsite. Depending on what site you reserved you could have to walk uphill for about 100-150 yards," explains a camper at Tar Hollow.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer activities designed for children. At Top O' The Caves Campground, "It offers mini golf, a pool, park and small game room which is awesome for camping with kids."
Plan for variable weather conditions: The region can experience sudden weather changes. "If you want to skip that first portion of the trail or if parking is not available you can park at the Hope Furnace which is mainly used for day hiking. Both parking lots seemed to fill up fast," advises a family who visited with an 8-year-old.
Consider non-primitive options for younger children: Some families find designated sites more manageable. "We have backpacked the trails here since the 1980s. More recently, I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop. Get there early and get to the campsites first, there are decidedly better sites in each camp," recommends a parent familiar with the area.
Bring entertainment for rainy days: Weather can change quickly in the hills. "The camp store is friendly and welcoming, with a small selection of mementos, a few nature-themed toys, last-minute forgets and ice cream," notes a family camper describing backup options when outdoor activities aren't possible.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for tight turns and limited spaces: Many RV sites require careful navigation. At Lake Snowden Campground, "The website advertises electrical hookups but it fails to mention that some sites on the premises are only 50 amp hookups and not 30 amp and 50 amp. I pull into the campground only to find that there are 50 amp hookups and I have a 30 amp cable."
Verify site levels before booking: The hilly terrain creates challenges for larger vehicles. "Camp sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4" off ground to get close to level. Site around is sloped in all directions," reports an RVer at Lake Hope State Park.
Allow extra time for setup at unlevel sites: The region's topography means few perfectly flat spots. "While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain," notes an RV owner who visited Lake Hope multiple times.
Check road conditions to campgrounds: Some access roads are challenging 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 an RV owner at Hocking Hills KOA.
