The best camping near Zaleski State Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Zaleski adventure.

Discover Zaleski State Forest's lush trails and historic sites.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Zaleski State Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Zaleski State Forest

Zaleski State Forest Horse Camp

16 sites In Zaleski State Forest

Atkinson Ridge Hunters Camp

1 site · RV, Tent In Zaleski State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Zaleski State Forest

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Triple D Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

My wife and I purchased this property as a family get a way. Great place to relax and unwind.

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Altenbrauch Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents62 acres · 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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Hope's Hippie Hideaway

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

10 acres altogether, about 5 acres mowed. Enough almost the size of a soccer field for kids to play in, in more than one place. Each campsite is about half an acre and we do have fire pits once you decide where you want to camp. We do not often have guests so you should have most of the property to yourself. The campsites are on the far shaded side of the property with my camper and cabin on the other five acres. Learn more about this land: Bookings available for 2023 season. Hope’s Hippie Hideaway at Wheelabout Creek is your new private LGBT friendly 10 acre camping site, less than 10 mi away from Lake Hope. If you could go through Zaleski, it would be 2 minutes. This is not a campground. Hike all day at Lake Hope, Zaleski, or Iron Furnace State Park, and cool off in the private creek that lines the entire property. Attention: The pool is closed for 2023. Lot's of area for exploring, creeking and to enjoy the wildlife. We have swimming holes, port-o-potty, 24-foot shelter house, over six half acre shaded non-hookup camping sites to choose from with private creek access. All campsites have a fire ring, access to charcoal grill, share access to water and electric, but not hookups. Sites #1 & #6 come with picnic tables. We also now have a trash container on site. There is currently one 40-ft gravel pad with pull through access next to temporary water in a full sun area. Dogs are normally on the property with huskies a qtr mile away. Dogs are welcome when leashed. And well-behaved. This is our own little happy place where we enjoy the view, the sounds of nature and togetherness with our friends and family. There is a shooting range near Lake Hope State Park, but shooting is not allowed on the property. The property is technically in McArthur, Ohio, but Google also considers it in Albany, Ohio. 10 miles from Lake Hope, 20 mi from Athens, 6 mi from McArthur Ohio where there are gas stations, fast food, pizza can be delivered, and three dollar general's within 15 minutes. Each campsite can have up to 6 people, any more and the site next door can also be booked. This listing is only for the 4 currently available non-hookup campsites or gravel pad. All amenities including water and electric are shared with owner and other guests. Daily electric hookup for gravel pad not available yet. Please bring some extra firewood as we go through quite a bit of it and firewood is not provided. We have room in the sun and shade for trucks, trailers, ATV's, we have walking trails mowed out, a driving trail around the property, and the pool can be reserved an hour ahead of time. Let us know what you want to bring and we will let you know what is planned that weekend and things to do in the area. Adults can float, kids can go play somewhere else. Bring your hammocks and tents. Can provide tent for extra fee. Wildlife preserve area in tall grass. Discounts for returning customers.

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Butterfly Valley at Zaleski

1 site · RV3 acres · New Marshfield, OH

UNPLUG & GET BACK TO NATURE at our secluded 3-acre PRIVATE RV RETREAT. Be immersed in nature and cocooned from the sights and sounds of city life. No cellular or wifi service will keep you communing with nature. String up your hammock on the banks of Hewitt Creek and bask in the peaceful serenity of nature. Stroll down our creekside path to the Paw-Paw patch and observe the kaleidoscope of wildlife including butterflies, birds, & bees. Come night, relax by our CREEKSIDE FIREPIT and enjoy our unpolluted night sky. Park your camper at the end of our 120ft long private gravel driveway with 50-amp electric hook-up. Enjoy a large mowed clearing by the creek with firepit and picnic table. In late summer and fall, a field full of 8ft tall annual flowers keep you hidden from the few passing travelers. Split seasoned firewood is usually available for purchase. Plenty of recreational opportunities are near for outdoor enthusiasts. We border the nearly 28K-acre Zaleski State Forest, which boasts of Hunting, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Backpacking, Mountain Biking, and more. LAKE HOPE STATE PARK is just 4 miles away down an old dirt road, with a 120-acre lake for boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing and swimming. They also have a free public Shooting Range. HISTORICAL REMNANTS are sprinkled throughout the area, most notably the haunted Moonville Tunnel, Kings Hollow Tunnel and the Hope Iron Furnace. While we don't allow hunting on our property, PUBLIC HUNTING is permitted in Zaleski State Forest (bordering our property) as well as the neighboring Waterloo Wildlife Area and the 5000 acre Wild Turkey management area. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: ~ 1/4 mi to Kings Hollow Tunnel ~ 3 mi to Moonville Tunnel ~ 4 mi to Lake Hope ~ 4 mi to Zalenski Shooting Range ~ 4 mi to Uncle Bucks Riding Stable ~ 4 mi to Hope Iron Furnace ~ 8 miles to Albany, OH ~ 12 mi to Athens, OH ~ 17 mi to Dorr Run ATV Trails Wayne National Forest (145 miles of trails) ~ 30m to Burr Oak State Park ~ 20 minutes from Old Man’s Cave, Hocking State Park ~ 1hr drive from Columbus The property is located in a field by a creek and has the potential to flood with prolonged heavy rains. If you plan to camp during a rainy weekend, we suggest a NOAA weather radio to keep informed since no Wi-fi or internet.

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Yourway Camp

5 sites · Tents26 acres · 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, no matter the season. Located in the Hocking Hills are several state parks. 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 just getting back to nature. 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 lots of options that can be found in this area.

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Trothwood Forest

8 sites · Tents43 acres · 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. Solar/fire heated shower near the flagpole. Always test the water temperature before use. 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 bys: 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

Hocking Vacations Campsites

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Logan, OH

Experience the tranquility of the Hocking Hills at Black Oak Campsites by Hocking Vacations, nestled in the heart of this picturesque region. Our 4-acre property offers a serene retreat where you can pitch your tent and reconnect with nature. Choose from several semi-secluded campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and wooden tent platform. These sites provide the perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor adventure. While camping at Black Oak Campsites, you'll enjoy the convenience of a short uphill walk from the parking area to your campsite. A porta-potty is available on-site for your comfort and convenience. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or a base for exploring the beauty of the Hocking Hills, Black Oak Campsite by Hocking Vacations promises a memorable outdoor experience.

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Hocking Hills Private RV Retreat

1 site · RV11 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

Situated in the heart of Hocking Hills down a quiet, privately maintained township road you'll find a secluded RV campsite on 11 acres with its own private hiking trails! Go for a short private hike out back or take a short drive to enjoy some of the nearby famous hiking trails that the Hocking Hills region has to offer. Our property has gated, lockable access and you would have it all to yourselves, we only allow one booking at a time.

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Baileys Basecamp

4 sites · Tents5 acres · Millfield, OH

Located in the middle of Wayne National Forest and surrounded by the Baileys Trail System. Local attractions include Hocking Hills, Ohio University and many other Southeastern Ohio treasures. We purchased this beautiful piece of property in 2016 to be used primarily as a family hunting camp. Over the years we have continued to improve the land and make it a cozy get-a-way. The land host abundant wildlife and amazing views. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

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My Spot Private Campsite

1 site · Tent80 acres · Dexter , OH

Nestled under the shade bequeathed by a tall canopy of deciduous trees and alongside a gentle flowing brook, lies a forest opening perfect for immersing in nature’s solitude. Our private campsite is a short walk (3-4 minutes) from parking where you’ll find a footpath that empties out onto a level forest understory, surrounded by trees ideal for pitching tents and hammocks. Our campsite is equipped with the necessities: a firepit with a removable grill, a large table, and your own private outhouse with a composting toilet. Trails leading from the campsite will usher you short distances to our best stargazing hilltop, for playing in the shallow creek running alongside our campsite, as well as shaded forest and ridgetop views. Our pond, equipped with a dock, ladder and seating is a favorite short 7 minute hike for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing. For longer hikes, any trail will connect you to our larger network of maintained trails over hill and dale, through shaded forests and open (mowed) pasture trails and farm-life views across our 80 acre farm. To make your packing lighter and your stay more comfortable, we offer the following "extra items" at an additional cost: - Firewood bundles (unlimited) - 5 gallons of water (or less) in jugs with handy pour spout - Charged battery pack with plug and USB receptables - Stringed twinkle lights - prehung (we do the hanging before you arrive) * must be ordered with our charged battery pack or bring own power source. All purchased "extras" will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Please see the "extras" for more detailed information and pricing.

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Hawk Falls

1 site · RV, Tent42 acres · Hamden, OH

42 beautiful and private acres in Southern Ohio. 12+ acres all to yourself with stunning views and wildlife! Enjoy streams, hiking, wildlife and private surroundings in one of the most beautiful and serene spots in Ohio! We have the following available for our guests. + Tent or car camping available 🏕 + Pack in / Pack out. Please bring what you will need and take it all with you when you leave. Trash, equipment, etc. + This site is undeveloped. There is no water, electricity, etc. + A fire ring is on the site, please bring firewood. You're welcome to use any dead wood and debris you find to burn.

Booked 2 times

Lazy Ferret Glamping

2 sites · Lodging35 acres · Logan, OH

Indulge in off-grid glamping and marvel at the stunning starlit skies in one of Ohio's darkest spots. Experience the thrill of hiking scenic trails and exploring the wooded hills spread across 35 private acres. Conveniently located near Logan and less than an hour's drive from Columbus, our property borders the Buckeye Trail and offers quick access to Hocking Hills, Rockbridge, Clear Creek Metro Park, and an array of outdoor adventures including hiking, canoeing, fishing, boating, biking, and more. Explore local venues, dine at charming restaurants, and sample the offerings of nearby wineries and breweries in the Logan area. For optimal access, we strongly recommend a 4-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive vehicle. Please take precautions against ticks and insects by bringing bug spray. Keep pets attended at all times and remain vigilant of coyotes and other wildlife. A Porta Potty is conveniently located at the front of the property, while a compostable Loo is available at your site. We provide drinking water and offer water refill stations for your convenience. Ample parking is available, with on-site space designated for setting up the included 4-person tent. Immerse yourself in nature's splendor and enjoy a memorable stay amidst Ohio's natural beauty.

The best camping near Zaleski State Forest guide

Overview

About

Clocking in a whopping 26,000 acres and listed as the second largest forest in the Ohio state park system, you may have to ask the boss for a little extra time off to enjoy Zaleski State Forest in its entirety. Bring Black Beauty along for the camping experience and explore 50 miles of trails on horseback together, or just pack a well-worn pair of boots and trek the 25 miles of trails designated for hiking. Did we mention you can always backpack in if you want a more remote experience? Hunters and fishers will also quickly find their home here, where 4,000 acres set aside for wild turkey production mean you'll be able to share some serious Thanksgiving bounty. Grab some tackle and cast a line in Lake Hope, or just kick your feet back and listen to the forest teem with life come sunset. Don't forget to pack that camera and some extra batteries—this area is just begging to become your next desktop background.

When to go

The prime time to visit Zaleski State Forest is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warm and the forest is full of life. Winter months can be harsh, with trails less accessible due to snow and ice.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your activities accordingly.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as terrain can be uneven and occasionally challenging.
Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the forest's natural beauty.
Cell service may be limited, so download maps and trail guides ahead of time.