Primitive camping options near Ripley, West Virginia extend throughout Wayne National Forest in southeastern Ohio, approximately 40-60 minutes from Ripley. The region sits within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau with elevations between 650-1,000 feet. Many camping areas remain open year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures with summer humidity often reaching 80-90%.
What to do
Fishing at lakeside sites: At Timbre Ridge Lake, campers can access fishing directly from their sites. "There were fishermen coming and going several times through the night," notes one camper, indicating the popularity of night fishing at this location.
Mountain biking: The Baileys Trail System offers excellent biking opportunities near Benton's on the Baileys. A camper mentions it's "near the Baileys Bike System," making it an ideal base for cyclists looking to explore the extensive trail network that winds through Wayne National Forest.
Historic exploration: Visit the Moonville Tunnel while backpacking at Zaleski State Forest. A reviewer recommends "taking the short connector trail on the south loop to cut over to the Moonville Rail Trail. We spent one afternoon hiking over to the Moonville Tunnel and it was one of the coolest parts of our four day trek."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many sites offer secluded camping experiences. At Benton's on the Baileys, campers enjoy "extremely private primitive camping surrounded by Wayne National Forest and steps from the Baileys Trail System." Another camper described it as "very private and quiet. You have to walk to the site, up a steep hill."
Free camping options: Several locations offer no-cost tent camping. Lane Farm Campground provides basic amenities at no charge. As one reviewer notes, "It is completely FREE, though, and you can stay for up to 14 days. There are quite a few small campgrounds in the area just like this one."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Ripley support diverse wildlife. At Kinderhook Trailhead, the equestrian nature of the site brings "a lot of horses and trailers throughout the day. Before sunset, everyone cleared out and only campers remained," creating a unique camping experience.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most sites have minimal amenities. At Chief Cornstalk Wildlife Management Area, one camper reported: "No electric, there is a sistern hand water pump (I didn't test it). There is a place to put trash but no dump station for refuse. There is an out house that looks like something from an 80's horror movie."
Water availability varies: Bring sufficient water supplies when tent camping near Ripley. At Zaleski State Forest, a camper noted "water is definitely well water tastes meh better off bringing a filter just in case."
Maintenance concerns: Facilities at some locations receive infrequent attention. At Timbre Ridge Lake, a visitor reported "The vault toilet had not been cleaned recently, nor had trash been emptied," highlighting the need to bring personal supplies.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between sites. Lane Farm Campground has "no phone service within 4-5 miles of the campground," while Kinderhook Trailhead offers "perfect AT&T and Sprint cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate trails: Select hiking routes suitable for children's abilities. At Zaleski State Forest, one family noted: "Wonderful overnight backpack trip for our family. We did the South Loop at Zaleski - 10.9 miles. The hike was great. Lots of ups & downs, a pond & beautiful rock outcroppings."
Pack for poison ivy and ticks: The natural vegetation includes common irritants. A family camping at Zaleski observed: "Trails had lots of poison ivy & ticks present. We look forward to coming back & doing the remainder of the trail."
Consider day-use areas: For families new to tent camping near Ripley, combining camping with day activities works well. One camper at Zaleski State Forest suggests: "Treat yourself to a post hike meal at the Lake Hope Dining Lodge, Sunday brunch is awesome. Don't worry about stinking from the trail, the outside seating is dog and smelly hiker friendly."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping areas near Ripley cater primarily to tent campers with few dedicated RV sites. Small campers may fit at certain locations like Lane Farm Campground where one RVer noted their "small camper fit fine with strategic parking."
Pack additional supplies: RVers should bring all necessary supplies including water. When staying at primitive sites, one camper advised: "you would need to bring everything with you for cooking and using the bathroom."
Consider seasonal timing: RV camping proves more challenging during wet seasons when access roads may become difficult. For the most comfortable experience, visit during drier periods, typically late summer and early fall.
