The best camping near Athens with wildlife watching

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Athens, Ohio and are particularly interested in wildlife watching, we've got you covered. With over 1,300 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your preferences. Looking for reviews? Check out popular campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and The Viking Longhall (257 reviews). And don't worry about amenities and activities - potable water, pets, campfires, boating, historic sites, and climbing are all popular options. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

95% (2.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Athens

1. Appalachian Retreat Camp

100%
(40)
42mi from Athens · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bring a friend and rent this site in conjunction with some of our other sites or split up your camping trip with a night in our backcountry camp site. Located in the rolling Appalachian hills of Southeast Ohio. This farm has been in our family since 1869 when our relatives settled here from Germany. Originally farmed for cattle and sheep with many orchards over the years our property is now mostly mature forest. Southeast Ohio, including our property is known for its hilly topography and microclimates. Hills range from 400 to 1,100 feet. Nearly 500 acres of land with an additional 200+ acres of Wayne National Forest adjacent to our farm and close proximity to other Wayne areas for outdoor activities. We have nearly 10 miles of available trails for hiking. Many activities can be done at or centered around our property. Such as excellent and challenging road biking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, kayaking and boating. We are two miles from the Little Muskingum River. A great river for kayak trips. The Wayne Kinderhook horse and hiking trail is roughly 5 miles from our location. Hike to the Irish Run Natural Land bridge trail also a short drive to the trailhead from our property. Ride your motorcycle up Rt. 26 a great Ohio byway for scenic driving. This is also a great home base for dual sport or adventure bike motorcycle riders to camp while adventuring along gravel roads through Appalachia. If motorcycles aren't your method of entertainment and travel. Bring your horse and ride on several of our trails. From steep ascents to long flat ridge lines, you will have lots of time to immerse yourself with nature while hiking. We're next to a section of the Wayne National Forest and a short drive to other similar Wayne activity sites. If you like to camp, but don't want the busy public park experience then you will enjoy the privacy of our camping location. We are also only about a 20-minute drive to downtown Marietta. Where you can find restaurants, bars, and many other fun activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

2. Geode Nature Domes

95%
(70)
43mi from Athens · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
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:
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$74
 / night

6. Romantic + Secluded + Hot Tub for 2

100%
(1)
35mi from Athens · 2 sites · Lodging
Discover the charm of GloCabin, an idyllic escape for nature lovers & couples alike. Tucked away on 32 acres, this cabin features a cozy bedroom, a spa-like bath, a jetted hot tub, and immersive hiking trails right at your doorstep. Revel in the quiet of the surrounding forest from three distinct decks—each offering unique views and experiences: enjoy wildlife watching, swing gently on the back deck, relax in the hammock under the trees, or admire the seasonal wildflower garden. 🍁 Stunning, wraparound forest &; ravine views 🍁 Covered back deck w/ swings &; the two-person hot tub 🍁 Solo Stove fire pit for roasting marshmallows or cooking 🍁 ”Breakfast” deck w/ bar seating &; electric grill 🍁 Juliet balcony deck off bedroom 🍁 Sleeps 2 in a queen four-poster bed 🍁 5 sets of French doors &; 4 large windows for wildlife viewing 🍁 Charming full bath 🍁 Wi-fi 🍁 Smart TV 🍁 32 acres with trails 🍁 Organic bamboo sheets &; organic linen duvets 🍁 Organic body products 🍁 Organic Turkish cotton towels 🍁 Eco-sustainable built and furnished 🍁 EV charger Nestled among the trees on the point of the peninsula within our ravine, the decks of GloCabin are your personal observatory to nature. Relax in the comfort of the deck swings where you can sway gently enveloped by the sounds of nature. Listen and watch for the morning deer as they move through the ravine each day. The two-person hot tub is a perfect spot to watch a sunrise or relax at night under the string lights. In the heart of GloCabin sits the kitchen. The curved countertop of the island invites intimate mealtime conversations, while custom-designed mugs and plates add a personal touch to your dining experience. The charming space is outfitted with everything you need for your stay including a drip coffee maker, coffee grinder, and French press, along with organic ground and whole bean coffees. From the adorable pantry to the high-end appliances, this kitchen inspires.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$260
 / night

7. Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

100%
(252)
41mi from Athens · 2 sites · Lodging
Our farm has been in the family for over 50 years. My Cherokee Grandmother purchased the farm with the intention of giving each of her children property. We have been raising bison here since 2008. We chose the name Cherokee Valley to honor my heritage and the gift of this farm by my grandmother and mother. We created this tipi experience to share that gift with you! Enjoy a night in our spacious 22 foot tipi. We provide a comfortable queen platform bed for your convenience. You must provide sleeping bags, linens , blankets etc. The tipi can sleep up to 6 people, 2 on the queen bed we provide, with ample room for additional cots or air mattresses that you provide. We have cots available to rent as an add on. . You may also pitch additional tents or hang hammocks in the trees with room for up to 10 people in all.​ Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a working bison farm with bison, honeybees, chickens and peafowl. We are a certified Wildlife Habitat and Monarch Way Station. Enjoy our beautiful hiking trails through the rolling hills of our ranch. We have a plethora of bird species, butterflies and wildflowers to delight nature lovers. After hiking the trails you can splash around in the pristine creek that borders our property (we recommend water shoes). Take in a gorgeous sunset over our farm, enjoy a wood fired dinner cooked over the provided fire pit with grill. The sounds of hoot owls will lull you to sleep and when you wake, enjoy the stained glass glow through the beautiful tipi. We are close to several wineries, breweries and recreational areas (kayaking, canoeing, golfing, biking) as well as Legend Valley concert venue. We are a short drive to Buckeye Lake, Dillion Dam, and Hocking Hills. We have a selection of grass fed bison available in our on-site farm store.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night

9. Salt Creek Camp at Sunnyvale Farm

94%
(35)
3.9mi from Athens · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Established in 1949, Sunnyvale Farm spans 160 acres of scenic trees and grain fields in the foothills of Southeast Ohio, nestled along the tranquil Hocking River. With nearly 120 acres of forested land featuring diverse elevation changes, our campground offers a serene retreat to unwind or a perfect base for exploring nature. Enjoy proximity to adventure: just 3 minutes from Bailey mountain bike trails and the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, 30 minutes from the stunning Hocking Hills, or 15 minutes from Strouds Run State Park. For those eager to explore the farm itself, hike through varied terrain with rewarding uphill climbs or take a leisurely stroll to discover our charming little grotto. If you prefer a touch of city life, the vibrant town of Athens is just minutes away, and you can reach Ohio University’s campus in under 10 minutes, all on paved roads. Please note that our campsites are located close to the road, so you may experience some road noise during your stay.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$18
 / night

15. Altenbrauch Farm

98%
(501)
25mi from Athens · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

18. Butterfly Valley at Zaleski

100%
(25)
9.8mi from Athens · 2 sites · RVs
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 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. This is the perfect time to meander our Butterfly Walking Trail through the meadow. 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 Zaleski 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 *This property has the potential to flood with prolonged heavy rains.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$48
 / night

20. Dexter Run Farms and Lodging

99%
(114)
17mi from Athens · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Dexter Run Farms. Our farm is a secluded nature escape within Meigs County. Here in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains you will experience the abundance of outdoor activities or bask in the relaxing stillness of the land. Surrounded by forest yet boasting beautiful views of mountain ridges and valleys. Choose from many large yard/open spaces that's perfect for playing outdoor games, yoga, sunbathing. Tons of hiking trails throughout our 300-acre homestead offer a variety of views from different elevations. Miles of creeks and waterways give you the gift of great kayaking and fishing. Begin your mornings enjoying your coffee, watching the cows graze and the many different birds waking up to the day. Grilling or roasting marshmallows on the open fire pits are a pleasure. Ask us about our farm fresh eggs, bacon or sausage for your breakfasts. Perfect for individual "me-time" retreats or multi generation vacations! Symphonies from the birds, crickets, frogs and animals entertain you daily. But our summer nights surely WOW our guests with the starry nights and lightening bugs. Explore our local Farmer's Markets, several historic towns with shopping, antiquing, artisans and good eateries. This place offers the perfect setting to create special memories here in our little slice of paradise. Please ask us if you have any questions or special requests. We offer a variety of accommodations from tent camping up to 2-bedroom cabins. Different driving locations from our farm via country roads or highways. 15 miles to Pomeroy, Oh. 24 miles to Athens, OH (Ohio University) 28 miles to Pt. Pleasant, WV 30 miles to Gallipolis, Oh 37 miles to Nelsonville, Oh (music festival) 70 miles to Ashland, KY 82 miles to Huntington Tri-State Airport West Virginia. 92 miles to Rickenbacker International Airport (Columbus) *Electric is available as an extra add-on with a $15/night fee. Dexter Run Farms is a working farm, selling grass-fed beef.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$35
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Athens, Ohio and are particularly interested in wildlife watching, we've got you covered. With over 1,300 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your preferences. Looking for reviews? Check out popular campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and The Viking Longhall (257 reviews). And don't worry about amenities and activities - potable water, pets, campfires, boating, historic sites, and climbing are all popular options. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

95% (2.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Athens

1. Appalachian Retreat Camp

100%
(40)
42mi from Athens · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bring a friend and rent this site in conjunction with some of our other sites or split up your camping trip with a night in our backcountry camp site. Located in the rolling Appalachian hills of Southeast Ohio. This farm has been in our family since 1869 when our relatives settled here from Germany. Originally farmed for cattle and sheep with many orchards over the years our property is now mostly mature forest. Southeast Ohio, including our property is known for its hilly topography and microclimates. Hills range from 400 to 1,100 feet. Nearly 500 acres of land with an additional 200+ acres of Wayne National Forest adjacent to our farm and close proximity to other Wayne areas for outdoor activities. We have nearly 10 miles of available trails for hiking. Many activities can be done at or centered around our property. Such as excellent and challenging road biking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, kayaking and boating. We are two miles from the Little Muskingum River. A great river for kayak trips. The Wayne Kinderhook horse and hiking trail is roughly 5 miles from our location. Hike to the Irish Run Natural Land bridge trail also a short drive to the trailhead from our property. Ride your motorcycle up Rt. 26 a great Ohio byway for scenic driving. This is also a great home base for dual sport or adventure bike motorcycle riders to camp while adventuring along gravel roads through Appalachia. If motorcycles aren't your method of entertainment and travel. Bring your horse and ride on several of our trails. From steep ascents to long flat ridge lines, you will have lots of time to immerse yourself with nature while hiking. We're next to a section of the Wayne National Forest and a short drive to other similar Wayne activity sites. If you like to camp, but don't want the busy public park experience then you will enjoy the privacy of our camping location. We are also only about a 20-minute drive to downtown Marietta. Where you can find restaurants, bars, and many other fun activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

2. Geode Nature Domes

95%
(70)
43mi from Athens · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
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:
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$74
 / night

6. Romantic + Secluded + Hot Tub for 2

100%
(1)
35mi from Athens · 2 sites · Lodging
Discover the charm of GloCabin, an idyllic escape for nature lovers & couples alike. Tucked away on 32 acres, this cabin features a cozy bedroom, a spa-like bath, a jetted hot tub, and immersive hiking trails right at your doorstep. Revel in the quiet of the surrounding forest from three distinct decks—each offering unique views and experiences: enjoy wildlife watching, swing gently on the back deck, relax in the hammock under the trees, or admire the seasonal wildflower garden. 🍁 Stunning, wraparound forest &; ravine views 🍁 Covered back deck w/ swings &; the two-person hot tub 🍁 Solo Stove fire pit for roasting marshmallows or cooking 🍁 ”Breakfast” deck w/ bar seating &; electric grill 🍁 Juliet balcony deck off bedroom 🍁 Sleeps 2 in a queen four-poster bed 🍁 5 sets of French doors &; 4 large windows for wildlife viewing 🍁 Charming full bath 🍁 Wi-fi 🍁 Smart TV 🍁 32 acres with trails 🍁 Organic bamboo sheets &; organic linen duvets 🍁 Organic body products 🍁 Organic Turkish cotton towels 🍁 Eco-sustainable built and furnished 🍁 EV charger Nestled among the trees on the point of the peninsula within our ravine, the decks of GloCabin are your personal observatory to nature. Relax in the comfort of the deck swings where you can sway gently enveloped by the sounds of nature. Listen and watch for the morning deer as they move through the ravine each day. The two-person hot tub is a perfect spot to watch a sunrise or relax at night under the string lights. In the heart of GloCabin sits the kitchen. The curved countertop of the island invites intimate mealtime conversations, while custom-designed mugs and plates add a personal touch to your dining experience. The charming space is outfitted with everything you need for your stay including a drip coffee maker, coffee grinder, and French press, along with organic ground and whole bean coffees. From the adorable pantry to the high-end appliances, this kitchen inspires.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$260
 / night

7. Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

100%
(252)
41mi from Athens · 2 sites · Lodging
Our farm has been in the family for over 50 years. My Cherokee Grandmother purchased the farm with the intention of giving each of her children property. We have been raising bison here since 2008. We chose the name Cherokee Valley to honor my heritage and the gift of this farm by my grandmother and mother. We created this tipi experience to share that gift with you! Enjoy a night in our spacious 22 foot tipi. We provide a comfortable queen platform bed for your convenience. You must provide sleeping bags, linens , blankets etc. The tipi can sleep up to 6 people, 2 on the queen bed we provide, with ample room for additional cots or air mattresses that you provide. We have cots available to rent as an add on. . You may also pitch additional tents or hang hammocks in the trees with room for up to 10 people in all.​ Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a working bison farm with bison, honeybees, chickens and peafowl. We are a certified Wildlife Habitat and Monarch Way Station. Enjoy our beautiful hiking trails through the rolling hills of our ranch. We have a plethora of bird species, butterflies and wildflowers to delight nature lovers. After hiking the trails you can splash around in the pristine creek that borders our property (we recommend water shoes). Take in a gorgeous sunset over our farm, enjoy a wood fired dinner cooked over the provided fire pit with grill. The sounds of hoot owls will lull you to sleep and when you wake, enjoy the stained glass glow through the beautiful tipi. We are close to several wineries, breweries and recreational areas (kayaking, canoeing, golfing, biking) as well as Legend Valley concert venue. We are a short drive to Buckeye Lake, Dillion Dam, and Hocking Hills. We have a selection of grass fed bison available in our on-site farm store.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night

9. Salt Creek Camp at Sunnyvale Farm

94%
(35)
3.9mi from Athens · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Established in 1949, Sunnyvale Farm spans 160 acres of scenic trees and grain fields in the foothills of Southeast Ohio, nestled along the tranquil Hocking River. With nearly 120 acres of forested land featuring diverse elevation changes, our campground offers a serene retreat to unwind or a perfect base for exploring nature. Enjoy proximity to adventure: just 3 minutes from Bailey mountain bike trails and the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, 30 minutes from the stunning Hocking Hills, or 15 minutes from Strouds Run State Park. For those eager to explore the farm itself, hike through varied terrain with rewarding uphill climbs or take a leisurely stroll to discover our charming little grotto. If you prefer a touch of city life, the vibrant town of Athens is just minutes away, and you can reach Ohio University’s campus in under 10 minutes, all on paved roads. Please note that our campsites are located close to the road, so you may experience some road noise during your stay.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$18
 / night

15. Altenbrauch Farm

98%
(501)
25mi from Athens · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

18. Butterfly Valley at Zaleski

100%
(25)
9.8mi from Athens · 2 sites · RVs
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 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. This is the perfect time to meander our Butterfly Walking Trail through the meadow. 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 Zaleski 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 *This property has the potential to flood with prolonged heavy rains.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$48
 / night

20. Dexter Run Farms and Lodging

99%
(114)
17mi from Athens · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Dexter Run Farms. Our farm is a secluded nature escape within Meigs County. Here in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains you will experience the abundance of outdoor activities or bask in the relaxing stillness of the land. Surrounded by forest yet boasting beautiful views of mountain ridges and valleys. Choose from many large yard/open spaces that's perfect for playing outdoor games, yoga, sunbathing. Tons of hiking trails throughout our 300-acre homestead offer a variety of views from different elevations. Miles of creeks and waterways give you the gift of great kayaking and fishing. Begin your mornings enjoying your coffee, watching the cows graze and the many different birds waking up to the day. Grilling or roasting marshmallows on the open fire pits are a pleasure. Ask us about our farm fresh eggs, bacon or sausage for your breakfasts. Perfect for individual "me-time" retreats or multi generation vacations! Symphonies from the birds, crickets, frogs and animals entertain you daily. But our summer nights surely WOW our guests with the starry nights and lightening bugs. Explore our local Farmer's Markets, several historic towns with shopping, antiquing, artisans and good eateries. This place offers the perfect setting to create special memories here in our little slice of paradise. Please ask us if you have any questions or special requests. We offer a variety of accommodations from tent camping up to 2-bedroom cabins. Different driving locations from our farm via country roads or highways. 15 miles to Pomeroy, Oh. 24 miles to Athens, OH (Ohio University) 28 miles to Pt. Pleasant, WV 30 miles to Gallipolis, Oh 37 miles to Nelsonville, Oh (music festival) 70 miles to Ashland, KY 82 miles to Huntington Tri-State Airport West Virginia. 92 miles to Rickenbacker International Airport (Columbus) *Electric is available as an extra add-on with a $15/night fee. Dexter Run Farms is a working farm, selling grass-fed beef.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$35
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field