Zaleski State Forest offers primitive glamping opportunities within the nearly 30,000-acre woodland in southeastern Ohio. The area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 660 to 1,000 feet, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Campers should note the region experiences humid summers with temperatures often reaching the mid-80s, while fall brings colorful foliage and more moderate hiking conditions.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Lake Hope State Park features extensive trail systems for day hikes with varying difficulty levels. "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," notes Dave V. about Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Water activities: Visitors can enjoy multiple water recreation options at Burr Oak State Park. "Lake Hope is a nice flatwater paddle. Get there early and watch the water lilies open," recommends Dave V. The park offers boat rentals and swimming areas. Another camper mentioned, "At lake hope you can enjoy camping in many ways. Very nice beach and swimming area. Hiking and horse back riding trails. Canoe/kayak rental."
Nature programs: Educational activities are available seasonally at several parks. "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!" explains Chris C. about Lake Hope State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many parks offer more remote camping options away from crowds. "Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave...but 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," shares Dave V.
Historical features: The region contains interesting historical sites. "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. at Lake Hope State Park. The Tar Hollow State Park Campground also offers unique historical perspectives with its fire tower and forest history.
Alternative to crowded areas: Several glamping options near Zaleski provide less congested alternatives to popular spots. "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 and its own nearby sites," reports Lori L.
What you should know
Campsite terrain challenges: Many sites in the region have uneven terrain. Daniel notes about Lake Hope: "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." Similar conditions exist at other campgrounds in the hilly region.
Limited amenities at some locations: Strouds Run State Park Campground offers minimal facilities compared to other parks. "This is an extremely primitive place that is not run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. There are very few amenities here. There are pit toilets, potable water towards the front, and that's it," explains Megan M.
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. One camper mentions at Lake Hope: "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect." Jonathan W. confirms this at Tar Hollow: "It is pretty remote (no cell phone coverage at even the top of the hills), and really is a chance to 'get away' from the modern life."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with recreational options: Some locations offer activities specifically for children. Regarding Hocking Hills KOA Holiday, Vicki H. shares: "There was a nice little pool, but it wasn't open for the season yet. The shower houses were immaculate. The front office includes a little gift shop, ice cream, and pizza."
Consider glamping cabins for easier family stays: Cabin options provide more comfort for families with young children. "We have returned to this camp ground four times! Everything is quite outdated especially the park and mini golf. With that said it was a great time. It has mini golf, a pool, park and small game room which is awesome for camping with kids," notes Kelli W. about Top O' The Caves Campground.
Check for water features: Lakes and beaches can be major attractions for families. "The park has nice camp sites, cabins if you like that kinda thing! But watch out for the FOG on the lake at night! It gets so bad you can't see past the end of your boat!" warns Robert R. about Lake Hope State Park.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for narrow sites: Many RV sites in the area have limited space. Kevin F. notes about Lake Hope: "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."
Consider site levelness: The hilly terrain makes finding level sites challenging. Marshall P. shares about Lake Hope: "The campground 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."
Choose hookup options carefully: Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds offers more modern RV facilities than state parks. "We stayed here for 3 nights and it's our family of 5 in late October (Class C, water and electric only). We enjoyed the great sunrises and sunsets. We also thought the facilities were quite nice," reports Mark.
