The best camping in Tar Hollow State Forest, OH

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Discover Tar Hollow State Forest's rugged beauty and outdoor adventures.  

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Top-rated campgrounds

Yourway Camp

98%
(148)
6.8mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · South Bloomingville, OH
Our camp sites are located in the Hocking Hills Region in the Appalachian Mountain foothills. The campsites are in densely wooded, hilly, terrain. Our 26 acre, residential property, is a great year round destination to get back to nature. Located in the Hocking Hills are several state parks. Hocking Hills State Park Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Whispering Pines, Conkles Hollow, and Rock House, and Tar Hollow are all within 10 miles. You can enjoy hiking our trails, sitting around the fire ring and relaxing after visiting the amazing Hocking Hills Region . So many options for fun on your trip to Hocking Hills. If you enjoy canoeing, horseback riding, shopping, or a trip to an observatory, Hocking County has something for everyone. Fishing at Rose Lake or Tar Hollow Mountain Biking at Hocking Hills Mountain Bike Trails Swimming at Tar Hollow to name a few.
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$38
 / night

Geode Nature Domes

95%
(70)
7.8mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Chillicothe, OH
Geode Nature Dome is a one-of-a-kind outdoor event space nestled at the foothills of the Appalachians in Chillicothe, Ohio. Designed to create epic outdoor experiences immersed in nature’s elements, our space is perfect for groups, teams, wellness getaways, and adventure-seekers of all kinds. Our unique geodesic domes and "comfort camping" sites offer you and your community a rare experience in the heart of nature surrounded by its rich elements. Thrill + Chill Escape the daily grind and tap into your divine adventurous spirit. We offer a series of exhilarating outdoor experiences that allow you to connect with the earth. Be inspired by the open fresh air, trees, mountains and seek the adventure that awaits you. However you wish to connect to nature, we provide you a range of experiences that match your energy level. Embrace your bold spirit and take on adventures like ziplining, mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking. (All a part of our event dome space and activities being featured during this season, ask more about this if interested) Or take a deep breath and find something a little more tranquil like yoga, massage, meditation, foraging, or a nature walk. We want to share the magical space that Geode Nature Dome is while showing gratitude for our natural habitat. It is our mission to leave our space better than we found it. Adventure therapy is calling. Geode Nature Dome: Thrilling Events Brought to Life 36' Dome Ideal for 10 people 16' Dome Ideal for 2 people The Specs: Private, half-mile hiking trail on property Picnic area with fire pit Sunlit with ventilation in summer Majestic views Learn more about this land:
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$74
 / night

Raven's Retreat Hocking Hills

96%
(36)
9mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 5 sites · Lodging · Laurelville, OH
Experience Raven’s Retreat Hocking Hills, a one-of-a-kind, adults-only, nature sanctuary created by two eco-conscious artists, including a master sculptor. Our art-filled retreat invites planners, solo travelers, couples, and groups. Book our sustainable Art Lodge (sleeps 16) or intimate Art Bungalow (sleeps 2), offering upscale spaces for wellness getaways, yoga, workshops, corporate retreats, intimate gatherings, and events. Hidden on 58 private acres with hiking and a wellness trail, just 2 miles from town and near Hocking Hills State Parks. Enjoy stunning views, a forest platform for movement and mindfulness, and serene backdrops for micro-weddings and special occasions. Host your own gathering or let us curate a custom experience. Our art-filled nature retreat welcomes planners, solo travelers, couples, and groups. Host your own gathering or let us curate a custom experience in our 58-acre sanctuary. Bookings fund animal rescue. Raven's Retreat Hocking Hills is just 2 miles from where you can get groceries, gas, supplies, and visit 6 family-owned restaurants. The closest larger towns are Logan, Lancaster, Circleville, and Chillicothe. Upon booking, you'll receive our personal cell numbers. State Parks/Nature Preserves nearby are: Rockhouse ( 6.5 miles ) Conkles Hollow ( 10.5 miles ) Whispering Cave ( 14 miles ) Old Man's Cave ( 14 miles ) Ash Cave ( 13 miles ) and several more! There are over a mile of private Hiking trails on the property. We are working with local naturalists to ensure that we maintain a healthy forest. We are unable to accommodate domestic animal friends/pets due to our senior dog Peanut who you may see somewhere around the property during your stay. The Sculptdecor Studio, run by my partner and master sculptor Dustin Weatherby, is on the 58-acres closest to the Art Lodge located at the bottom of the driveway. Dustin specializes in animatronics, steel sculptures, wood carvings, mixed media sculptures, and starting in 2025, will offer live art performances and experience packages for guests. Feel free to stop by the studio and say hello, our home is on the same 58-acre property. Although you cannot see our home from the Art Lodge or Tiny Bungalows, we're often nearby for assistance. Your hosts, -Raven and Dustin-
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$280
 / night

The cozy mountain cabin

98%
(23)
10mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Ray, OH
Hello everyone, this is William your host and I would like to Describe to you a little bit about our cabins And the experience we offer here This particular Cabin you have beautiful scenery, one awesome hot tub that seats up to 8 people ,a very comfortable queen bed, 1 set of bunk beds , a modern kitchen and bath a 60 inch smart tv . And a very large balcony that extends into the forest Where the hot tub can be found. Check in is at 2pm and check out is 11am Your reservation price covers three Guest any additional guest is $25 per day, per guest and the same goes for pets $25 per pet per day. Any difference in the reservation wether Guest or pets is upon arrival We do offer Riding and a mountain adventure package and you may bring your own atv and pay a $30 day riding fee We rent to everyone looking to enjoy some time in these beautiful mountains ,not just riders. You will not regret coming and relaxing here and having a good time in style and comfort. Your more than welcome to message Me with any questions you may have.. I look forward to providing you with an amazing stay soon..Cole
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$147
 / night

Altenbrauch Farm

98%
(499)
11mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Mc Arthur, OH
Located only 8 miles from Hocking Hills State Park, Altenbrauch Farm features 62 acres of open fields, small streams and wooded hills intersected by a lonely country road.  Aside from our house, there are no neighbors in sight.  Easily pitch your tent in an open field or trek through the hills and hollows to find your perfect campsite.As part of Ohio's famous Hocking Hills Region, Vinton County is home to the second largest state forest, in addition to multiple state parks and wildlife areas. You’ll encounter abandoned historical sites and relics dating back to the early 1800s, hidden away among the wooded hills of Ohio’s least populated county. If you're a lover of outdoor recreation, this is the place to be. Within about a half-hour drive, there are many opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, hunting and fishing, and birding.  Nearby parks and forests include Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking Hills State Forest, Lake Hope State Park, Zaleski State Forest, the Moonville Rail Trail, Lake Alma State Park, Tar Hollow State Forest, and more!Set up camp wherever you like!  There are 12 acres of open field space, surrounded by 50 acres of wooded hills and hollows with hiking trails and level spots to pitch tents. Vehicles can be driven to the field sites; we are still working on a road to access the hill sites by vehicle.  The fields have about a dozen "permanent" sites with stone or metal fire rings and log seating.  Portable fire rings are also available that can be moved anywhere.  Dead wood for campfires is free to gather, or split firewood is available to purchase for $5/bundle. A toilet and solar shower are located at the center of the property. An outdoor water spigot is also available. Guests are expected to follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. Any trash packed onto the property must be bagged and taken with you.
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$30
 / night

Camp Cavinee

94%
(18)
14mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rockbridge, OH
RV Owners PLEASE READ to the end for directions. We are a private campground and wedding venue in the heart of Hocking County. We are located 9 miles from Laurelville, 16.4 miles from Logan, 17 miles from Lancaster, 19 miles from Circleville, where stores and dinning are abundant and easily accessible. The property is full of wildlife and magnificent views and rainbows galore, with minimal light pollution, our night sky's are spectacular. We are within a 30 minutes drive of all of Hocking Hills State Parks, Nature preserves and so much more. Hocking Hills features beautiful towering cliffs, thrilling waterfalls, and deep, hemlock-shaded gorges. With stunning ice formations in winter, wildflowers adorning the forest floor in springtime and vivid foliage in the fall, hikers and nature lovers have plenty to enjoy in this awe-inspiring area. Other local activities include, rock climbing, ziplining, ATV/UTV Rentals and tours, along with Canoe/Kayaking on the hocking river, horseback riding and so much more. Southern Ohio offers some amazing roads for motorcycle rides, including the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway, The Windy 9, The Triple Nickel and Three Rivers . Please message me on the morning of your stay with an ETA so I can make sure I'm here to great you. RVers if you are coming in from US Rte 33 please use Buena Vista Rd. Buena Vista Rd is one exit after Oppossum Hollow if you are heading East on 33 and also one exit pass 374 if you are heading West on 33. GPS will usually route you onto Oppossum Hollow Rd or State Rte 374. The State Rte 374 route will have you turn onto Oppossum Hollow. Oppossum Hollow road is a one lane unlined rd and is not the best for RVs. Taking Buena Vista Rd will only add about a mile and a few minutes to your trip. Be advised Buena Vista is a very curvey road but is traveled by large vehicles all the time. Just take it slow and you will be fine. We have a dully truck and 45 ft rig that we bring in and out just fine. If you are coming in from the South (Chillicothe area.) From State Rte 180, please take Jack Run Rd. This is also a paved two lane road. All other roads in the area are single lane rds and are not the best for RVs (don't use Middlefork, Long Run, Stump Run, or Clapper Hollow off of State Rte 180). Safe Travels..
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$20
 / night

Woody Acres

98%
(88)
18mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Plymouth, OH
Woody is our peaceful hilltop home nestled amongst the scenic hills in southeast Ohio between Hocking Hills State Park and Zaleski State Forest. Enjoy staying on a hilltop meadow filled with a mix of wildflowers and song birds. The meadow is surrounded by a tall mixed hardwood forest where campers are free to walk the mowed path through the woods. Come nightfall, you will be graced with some of the darkest skies in the state of Ohio. On a clear moonless night, the milky way galaxy comes into view and shooting stars are not an uncommon site. If you're lucky, our friendly black cat will grace you with his presence, he's a legend and likes to snuggle:) We offer a variety of accommodations depending on the type of adventure you are seeking. Choose between staying in the off grid school bus tiny home, the 20 foot "glamper" with outdoor kitchen, the Hickory Hut which offers more "creature comforts" or simply pitch a tent or park a smaller camper in the open meadow campsite for a night of stargazing. Woody is located within 25 minutes of many of the areas attractions: 15 minutes to Ash Cave 20 minutes to Cedar Falls 25 minutes to Old Man's Cave 20 minutes to Lake Hope 10 minutes to McArthur 25 minutes to Logan Here at Woody we honor our place in the natural world and are humbled by the beauty that surrounds us. We see ourselves as a part of nature and work towards having a deeper connection with the earth and our place in it by applying caretaker attitude and careful technological use and observation. Our mission is to leave bounty in our wake. If you would like to dive deeper into your own connection with nature, consider going on a nature walk with Austin during your stay. Check it out in the add-ons. We would love for you to come stay with us and be a part of a healing landscape where you can disconnect from your day to day, reconnect with nature and experience the Woody Acres magic. Hope to see you soon! Austin and Kate
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$29
 / night

Trothwood Forest

98%
(87)
18mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 8 sites · Tents · Mc Arthur, OH
Family-Owned 43+ acres. nearly all wooded. This property has been minimally developed so as to allow it to be as clean and as natural of possible. There are some trails making hiking the property easier. A few locations on the property are available for quite private camping stays or family friendly getaways. When you drive up the driveway stick to the right. The houses on the left are different properties. Park where the driveway first levels off or up near the flagpole. Trails are not meant for vehicles. Dual purpose / adventure motorcycles are ok to drive right up to the sites. No ATV's  Solar/fire heated shower near the flagpole. Closed during colder months (Nov-April). Always test the water temperature before use. Hand pulled wagon is there to make it easy to get your things to your site. Return it to the parking/flagpole area when not using it. There is cell service on the property! This is an ideal location to give children adventures that are still within minutes to a small town and other attractions in the Hocking Hills area. Approximate near by places: Enjoy the scenery while driving or just staying put: 17-minute drive to Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards and Farm Winery 20-minute drive to Ash Cave 26-minute to Old Mans Cave 2-3 minute drive to McArthur for supplies if needed
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$27
 / night

Fisher Family Retreat

90%
(102)
18mi from Tar Hollow State Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Logan, OH
Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s celebrated Hocking Hills region, the Fisher Family Retreat at the Hocking Hills Store offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking a blend of rustic charm and modern convenience. With a thoughtful layout comprising two hilltop RV sites and two secluded tent camping sites, this retreat caters to campers of all stripes—whether you arrive with a home on wheels or prefer the intimacy of a tent beneath the stars. Overview of the Retreat The Fisher Family Retreat is more than just a place to lay your head; it’s an experience carefully curated to bring you closer to nature while ensuring all the comforts you need for a relaxing getaway are at hand. Each site—be it for RVs or tents—comes equipped with electricity, a firepit, comfortable chairs, a picnic table, a charcoal grill, and complimentary WI-FI. This combination of amenities makes it easy to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing the pleasures of modern life. Amenities for Comfort and Connection One of the defining features of the Fisher Family Retreat is its commitment to combining rustic outdoor living with essential amenities. Regardless of which site you choose, you’ll enjoy: • Electric Hookups: Power your RV, charge your devices, and light your evenings with reliable electricity at every site. • Firepit: Each site provides a dedicated firepit, perfect for roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, or simply relaxing under the stars. • Chairs: Settle into comfortable outdoor seating and soak in the views or the woodland tranquility. • Picnic Table: Enjoy family meals, card games, or quiet moments with a book at your own private table. • Charcoal Grill: Cook up a classic campsite feast with the provided grill. Just bring your favorite ingredients and charcoal. • WI-FI: Complimentary wireless internet is available at all sites, making it easy to share your adventures or keep in touch with loved ones.
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$27
 / night

The best camping in Tar Hollow State Forest, OH guide

Overview

About

The third largest forest in Ohio state, Tar Hollow State Forest features some greenery so lush, you may think your eyes are sporting a color filter. Whether you're interested in exploring the area by horseback or by foot, camping sites for both humans and your four-legged friends have got you covered. Explore the expansive trails and immerse yourself in the woodland experience, where if you're lucky you may just catch sight of some majestic wildlife. With more than 16,000 acres to explore, we have a feeling you won't be plagued by claustrophobia or the usual suspects of city-living down here. Go on, get a little primitive. What happens in Tar Hollow stays in Tar Hollow.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Tar Hollow State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is either blooming or showcasing a vibrant palette of autumn colors. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winters can be harsh, with snow potentially limiting access to certain areas of the park.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure you pack appropriately for the conditions.
  • Be aware of park hours, which typically run from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
  • Stay on marked trails to protect the natural habitat and ensure your safety.
  • Remember to bring sufficient water and snacks, as options for purchasing food may be limited.
  • Review the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website for any alerts or closures before your trip.
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