Tent campsites near Zanesfield, Ohio provide backpacking opportunities within reasonable driving distances. The region features small nature reserves and county parks offering primitive camping experiences. Most sites require advance reservations and have varying open seasons with some closing during winter months, while others remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Water activities: Jacoby Road Canoe Launch offers riverside camping with picnic tables and fire pits. "Went with a buddy for a one night stay. Beautiful spot for tent camping right next to the Little Miami River," notes Logan in his review of Jacoby Road Canoe Launch.
Backpacking trails: The backpacking sites at Scioto Grove Metro Park provide a perfect testing ground for gear and techniques. "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit, besides that they're totally primitive," says Zach.
Bird watching: The meadow setting at Narrows Reserve attracts various bird species. "Tons of traffic with bird watchers and joggers," mentions Chelsie B. about the camping area, noting the popularity of this activity among daytime visitors.
What campers like
Secluded river spots: Campers appreciate the peaceful locations near water. At Narrows Reserve, "along the trail there were spots where you could jump in the river and even a rope swing," according to Austin R., offering cooling relief during warmer months.
Provided firewood: Some parks supply wood for campfires, eliminating the need to bring your own. Anna S. mentions at Scioto Grove: "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn't see a single person. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood."
Trail accessibility: Many camping areas connect to broader trail networks. At Morris Bean Reserve, Buck B. notes it's a "good spot to waste a few hours," making it suitable for day trips and exploration.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most backcountry sites must be reserved in advance and fill quickly. "Need to reserve online, books up very fast," warns Anna S. about securing a spot at Scioto Grove Metro Park.
Limited facilities: Many tent sites lack amenities typical of developed campgrounds. At On Cedar Pond, facilities are basic but the setting makes up for it. "The stay was amazing! So beautiful," shares Charlie H. about their experience at this small campground with only two sites.
Hike-in distances: Some campgrounds require walking to reach your site. Austin R. shares about Narrows Reserve: "I actually didn't even look at a map until I arrived. That's when I realized the primitive campsites were 1.25 miles from the parking lot."
Seasonal operations: Many sites have limited availability during winter. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime," notes Joaquim P. about Scioto Grove Metro Park's schedule restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Look for camps with swimming opportunities. Chelsie B. mentions Narrows Reserve has "nice river/creek access to cool off," providing natural water play for children during hot weather.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer limited play equipment. At Tee Pee Family Campground, Bryatt S. notes: "The pond was fantastic. Has a large inflatable slide and a dock that you can jump off of in the middle. Kids loved it," though they also mention "playgrounds for the kids are very weak. Just a few swing sets but that's about it."
Trail difficulty: Consider the hiking ability of children when selecting sites requiring a walk-in approach. Kenpocentaur K. describes the trail at Scioto Grove as suitable for newer backpackers: "The backpacking site was a great site for new backpackers. It isn't too long but doing the full loop does let you know if your gear is working."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive tent sites near Zanesfield aren't suitable for RVs. For RV camping, Tee Pee Family Campground offers full hookup options but has drawbacks. "Sites are close together. Our fire pit is less than 3 feet away from the next camper," reports Bryatt S.
Weekend popularity: Weekends see increased traffic at most campgrounds. "We saw a few cars and trucks during our weekend as it is a canoe launch. Locals also will stop here to hike and avoid the crowds in town," describes Kenpocentaur K. about St. Mary's Section - Buckeye Trail, where an Adirondack shelter offers a unique accommodation option.
Bath facilities: Plan accordingly for limited facilities. "2 bathhouses for the entire campground. And it's a decent walk to get to them if you are just there for a weekend," notes Bryatt S. about Tee Pee Family Campground's amenities.
