Zanesville, Ohio sits within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with an average elevation of 740 feet above sea level. The region features a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making late spring through early fall the prime camping months. Equestrian camping options near Zanesville provide direct trail access to the Wayne National Forest's bridle paths that connect to broader trail systems.
What to do
Hiking trails at Burr Oak: The trail system offers varied terrain through wooded areas around the 664-acre lake. "The hiking trails are nice but very muddy after the rain. Lots of geocasches in the area on the trails in Wayne national forest," notes Kelsey R. from Burr Oak State Park Campground.
Fishing at Dillon Lake: Located 10 miles west of Zanesville, Dillon offers good fishing opportunities in a secluded setting. "Dillon Lake State Park is located about 10 miles west of Zanesville, OH in a heavily forested area. There is no road noise from the local route 146 used to access the campground," reports Brian B. from Dillon State Park Campground.
Horseback riding at Old Stone Church: The area features well-maintained bridle paths through Wayne National Forest. "The trails around the campsite were absolutely breathtaking - beautiful, serene and smelled like wildflowers surprisingly because they are used as horse-riding trails," explains Nicole F. from Old Stone Church Campground.
Kayaking at Blue Rock State Park: The small lake provides calm waters for beginners. "Really pretty lake!" mentions Megan P. who enjoyed the water recreation at Blue Rock State Park Campground.
What campers like
Natural privacy at remote sites: Dillon State Park offers secluded camping areas away from crowds. "Go to the back of the campground. It is very quite," recommends John L. about camping at Dillon State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests around Zanesville support diverse wildlife. "My partner and I have been here for 3 days, were staying for a week. So far everyone has been friendly or keeps to themselves. The bathrooms and showers are clean and the deer are plentiful and beautiful," reports Andrea H.
Clean facilities at Salt Fork: The park maintains good bathroom and shower facilities. "The park is very well groomed and most of the trails within the park had been cleared of vegetation so there was no fighting through the weeds," writes ralph P. from Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Direct trail access from camps: Many sites connect directly to hiking or bridle paths. "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around," says Janessa S. about the equestrian facilities at Blue Rock State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water access may be limited during off-season camping. "Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year. This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off," advises Andrea F. about Mohican State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Some campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "No internet or phone service so great to disconnect," notes Daniel from Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Water conditions after rain: Trails and water features can change quickly after storms. "Trail conditions remain consistently good throughout most of the camping season, with occasional muddy sections after heavy rainfall."
Site selection considerations: Not all sites are equal in terms of levelness. "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 Daniel about Lake Hope State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities during summer: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. "We did take a little time to walk and bird. The campground was 80% empty, very quiet except for some late-night traffic on the county road nearby," shares Brian M. about Salt Fork State Park.
Interpretive programs at Lake Hope: "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. from Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Creek exploration for children: Several campgrounds feature small streams with aquatic life. "There is a creek running through the main primitive campsites below the dam, with minnows and crawfish for the kids to catch, plenty of shade," describes Ryan W.
Fire tower climbing at Blue Rock: "The hiking was wonderful, the equestrian trails looked very nice, and the fire tower was a fun climb," says Ryan W. about unique family activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Hocking Hills: Choose carefully based on size and levelness. "Reservations only, most sites are level and spacious. There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)," explains Meghan H. from Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Limited full hookup options: Plan accordingly for water and electrical needs. "Limited sites have full hook-up. There is a dump station near the entrance. There is also a small camp store at the entrance," notes Brian B.
Pull-through sites for horse trailers: Specialized sites accommodate equestrian campers. "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)," reports Tammy F. about Old Stone Church Campground.
Site spacing considerations: Some parks offer more space between sites. "There is reasonable space between the sites to allow for some privacy and to allow you to spread out. Area C is the most secluded area," advises Brian B. about Dillon State Park.
