The best star host campgrounds near Zanesville, Ohio

Zanesville is just an hour from Columbus, but it feels a world away. Everywhere you turn, there’s a state forest, state park, or protected wildlife area. That means one thing: beautiful, convenient camping. Whether you feel like swimming close to camp or sleeping at a forest RV park, this part of Ohio has you covered.

At Dillon State Park, fish for bass and play disc golf just steps from camp. Kids love the basketball court, and hikers can get active on seven trails. If you need to get online, the camp store has free Wi-Fi. You won’t find full hookups here, but most sites have electric; there’s also a dump station.

For some of the best hiking in Ohio, head south to Blue Rock State Park. The campground welcomes big rigs and horses; you can also opt for cabins or tent camping. Rent a boat in the park store and explore the small lake, or swim from the beach. When the lake freezes, come for ice fishing and ice skating.

A little further afield, Ohio offers some surprises. Kayak through hand-operated locks at Muskingum River State Park. At Wolf Run State Park, you can try freshwater scuba diving. To the south, Wayne National Forest is a haven for ATV riders, mountain bikers, and rock climbers.

99% (4K) • 174 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Zanesville

Zanesville is just an hour from Columbus, but it feels a world away. Everywhere you turn, there’s a state forest, state park, or protected wildlife area. That means one thing: beautiful, convenient camping. Whether you feel like swimming close to camp or sleeping at a forest RV park, this part of Ohio has you covered.

At Dillon State Park, fish for bass and play disc golf just steps from camp. Kids love the basketball court, and hikers can get active on seven trails. If you need to get online, the camp store has free Wi-Fi. You won’t find full hookups here, but most sites have electric; there’s also a dump station.

For some of the best hiking in Ohio, head south to Blue Rock State Park. The campground welcomes big rigs and horses; you can also opt for cabins or tent camping. Rent a boat in the park store and explore the small lake, or swim from the beach. When the lake freezes, come for ice fishing and ice skating.

A little further afield, Ohio offers some surprises. Kayak through hand-operated locks at Muskingum River State Park. At Wolf Run State Park, you can try freshwater scuba diving. To the south, Wayne National Forest is a haven for ATV riders, mountain bikers, and rock climbers.

99% (4K) • 174 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Zanesville

1. WALKAbOUT Creek Campground

96%

(138)

10mi from Zanesville · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

-Located in Blue Rock State Forest. Campers are welcome to hike to their hearts content! - Located 10 minutes from Blue Rock's swimming beach at Cutler Lake. - Located 20 minutes from Columbus Zoo's "The Wilds" Safari. - Access to the Blue Rock State Forest equine trails. Over 25 miles of trails. Walking them also allowed! - 3 stocked ponds for fishing - Our own little "Y" Bridge like the notable bridge located in the nearby city of Zanesville. - Communal area for socializing/events. Free to use for campers, provided it is not privately booked for an event.

2. Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

100%

(29)

46mi from Zanesville · 2 sites · Tents

Come visit our private nature escape within the Hocking Hills. Within a few minutes to a half hour, our campsites offer the opportunity to experience many regional attractions throughout the area. You can explore Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Rose Lake, Conkle’s Hollow, Lake Hope, Zaleski State Forest, Vinton Furnace State Forest and Wayne National Forest. You can also visit multiple breweries and wineries within the same distance. While at the campsite, you’ll be surrounded by a mature hardwood forest and the peacefulness that comes with Ohio’s last frontier. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for preparing dinner or simply relaxing. Sustainably sourced firewood is available for purchase either ahead of time or while at the site. Both campsites are located within 200 feet of the gravel access road where parking is available. Water and restroom facilities are not available at sites during winter. Approximately December through March. Please feel free to contact me for further details.

3. EJT Retreat

99%

(45)

26mi from Zanesville · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to EJT Retreat! If you love to escape to the outdoors, but also appreciate having a few everyday comforts close by, this is a perfect spot for you. Situated on just under 2 acres, this 18’x30’ cabin is built into a hill, and offers a beautiful view of our natural pool pond and tree-line. Our property shares a border with the beautiful Wayne National Forest, which provides acres and acres of public land to explore, literally right in the backyard.

4. Oaklawn Land & Livestock LLC

100%

(15)

17mi from Zanesville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled along the scenic Wakatomika Creek in the NW Corner of Muskingum County, Oaklawn Land & Livestock is a multigenerational family farm with over 125 years of rich agricultural history. From unique historical landmarks, rolling pastures and fertile bottomland our farm offers travelers a genuine taste of country life. Your Hosts Tom, a lifelong livestock and crop farmer and his wife Sue, retired after 39 years teaching family & consumer science will love to show you around and answer your questions about the property and agriculture practices. We offer 1 RV site with electric and water that overlooks the bottomland and crop fields and multiple tent sites along the creek. Potable water is available at the farm. Whether you're drawn to the hum of tractors in the field, baling hay in the summer sun or the daily rhythms of feeding livestock, you're invited to join in, or simply take it all in. Our pastures are home to Purebred Charolais and Angus/Simmental cattle, a contract hog growing operation and free-range poultry which provide fresh eggs daily. We also cultivate soybeans, field corn and occasionally popcorn, which we're happy to share with you during your stay. Guests are welcome to pitch in with chores like feeding the animals, collecting eggs, and unloading hay, or just relax and soak up the peace and quiet of the countryside. Cast a line in the Wakatomika, hike our creekside trail and keep an eye out for our resident bald eagles soaring overhead. You may even catch a glimpse of an Amish neighbor's buggy passing by. Muskingum County is known for exceptional trophy deer and hunting opportunities are available for those interested. During your visit you'll have the chance to purchase farm-raised beef, fresh eggs, local honey, homemade soap, beeswax wraps and vanilla and even firewood for your campfire. Whether you're here to lend a hand or unwind under a star filled sky, Oaklawn offers a welcoming retreat with unforgettable sunrises, peaceful nights, and a true connection to the land. We'd even be honored to invite you for a homecooked meal and by the time you leave we hope you'll feel like part of our family! Come for the views, stay for the experience — and leave with a deeper connection to the land.

5. Firefly Forest

100%

(8)

43mi from Zanesville · 4 sites · Tents

Firefly Forest is a working family farm located on 75 acres in beautiful Athens County Ohio. We raise goats, sheep, waterfowl, poultry, and livestock guardian dogs. Guests will have access to miles of hiking trails, two ponds, viewing areas for our homestead's many different species of livestock, picnic areas, fire pits, star gazing areas, and more. We are also always working to bring new attractions to the farm. Our property also plays host to lush flora and fauna, from deer and foxes, to paw paws and persimmons.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jay

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Oaklawn Land & Livestock LLC

Tom is a super generous host who is so welcoming and warm! We came for one night in winter while passing through and Tom was super cool and flexible. Hope to go back soon and spend more time there!

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

First time staying here so I didn't really know what to expect. Not that it's a negative but it's not a traditional campground. It's essentially two sites on private property. Site 1, the site I stayed at, is the first site and is closer to the road. You can drive up to this one which is really convenient. The site was pretty flat and could easily accommodate a few tents. The picnic table looked pretty new and the fire ring was pretty large making it ideal for larger, hot fires. There's plenty of firewood on-site which was super convenient and they even supply a wheel barrow to get it to your spot. The porta-john was the cleanest I've ever used as well. Denise, the host, was great and was very responsive to messages. A+ there. The only downside was no real facilities so you can't shower. Not the fault of the host but noise was a minor issue from time to time. Dogs barking across the street late at night and people driving around loud off-road vehicles. Other than those small things, it was very quiet. No one else was there during my stay which was also nice. All in all, it was a good couple of days of camping. I would definitely return.

B

Brad

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to EJT Retreat

Our family loved this cabin! It had all the amenities you would want and then some. Hosts were helpful and responsive. The location was quiet and beautiful. We will definitely be back next summer. This place is now one of our family favorites!

M

Megan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

This site was perfect! It was secluded enough with only 2 sites (no one was at the second site when we were there) but close to good hiking trails. We already booked again! The bathroom is clean and there was plenty of firewood. One note-as pictured there is no grate for the pit. If you need one to cook be sure to bring. Communication was great as well!

Kris

October 2025

Weekend Trip to EJT Retreat

Great location. Comfortable. Clean. Nice hot tub. Everything was accurate from the post. The host was very responsive.

S

Sam

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

Really nice and quiet spot! The site was pretty big and had tons of firewood, which was awesome. Heard a bunch of birds and even found a salamander while I was walking around. I ended up leaving early for other reasons, but it was a great place overall, would definitely stay again.

C

Carly

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

We loved site 1, it was clean and felt private and spacious. the dry, free wood was wonderful and as other reviews mentioned, a clean port-a-potty. Our cell connection was pretty terrible driving into the property so we turned into the owner's driveway. The driveway for the hipcamp was the next driveway to the north. We couldn’t see the sign from the road coming from the south. Would definitely camp here again. Thanks, Denise!

R

Robert

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

Very nice and private site! Very close to Hocking Hills' popular sites. Great place to relax.

D

Dusty

September 2025

2 nights at EJT Retreat

My husband and I were looking for a secluded getaway with a hut tub. This place was perfect. Totally private . The hot tub was perfect. The home was cozy. The shower was wonderful. Everything was exactly as described. Super easy check in. Wood on site. The hot tub was hot when we are arrived. We really appreciated that after a heard days work.

John

September 2025

2 nights at EJT Retreat

This was the get away we was looking for. The hot tub was what we went for and it was perfect for those of who don't no much about hot tubs if you want the temp to go up you move it up then it takes about an hour for this change to occur and this is on all hot tubs . As I said hot tub was wondering

B

Bradley

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

Lovely location, beautiful scenery and fantastic hosts. They were very helpful and prompt on answering questions. Would highly recommend. Toilet and sites are well maintained

J

Josie

September 2025

Group trip

3 nights at EJT Retreat

The cabin was perfect for us. In between hikes we would soak in the hot tub, then jump in the natural pool. I loved just hanging out in the pool and watching the frogs. During the day butterflies and at night fire flies. Thoughtfully well equipped. Truly a magical time, we will be back.

T

Tessa

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Pumpkin Ridge Retreat

The site was quiet and secluded. Perfect for relaxing in the woods.

e

emma

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Firefly Forest

This was such a beautiful property, and I'm so grateful Owen is willing to share it with campers! It was fun to hike around and enjoy a quiet campsite.

Dominic

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Firefly Forest

Beautiful, spacious property with private secluded camp sites. Owen is an amazing host and was very helpful and provided great information for other things to do in the surrounding area as well. My son and I had an amazing time staying here and will definitely be back! I would highly recommend this site to anyone looking for a wonderful adventure in the beautiful Appalachian foothills of south-east Ohio!

B

September 2025

3 nights at EJT Retreat

Not ultra-luxurious, but clean, comfortable and private. a unique, affordable place within a reasonable drive to Hocking Hills and Lake Logan

S

Suhavi

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Oaklawn Land & Livestock LLC

We loved camping on Tom’s land! Well, no one else was camping at the same time, it was very secluded, and we would not have noticed if they were. We were right by the creek and saw a bald eagle fly overhead. We also enjoyed seeing the cows move around across the road, and hearing the horse and buggy go by. Such a beautiful site with primitive camping, but also enjoyed cell service in case of emergency. We will definitely be back!!!

B

Billy

September 2025

2 nights at EJT Retreat

Really enjoyed my time here! The cabin was fully stocked (supplies, utensils, toiletries) and very comfortable. The fire pit and hot tub were nice for relaxing. Also very impressed with the communication from the hosts. Would definitely stay here again

S

Samantha

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Oaklawn Land & Livestock LLC

This property was exactly what I was looking for this weekend! The site was beautiful and not far from access to the creek that runs along it. Tom and his wife were very friendly and communicative and I intend on returning in the future!

K

Kelly

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Oaklawn Land & Livestock LLC

Nice quiet spot on the creek. Tom and his wife was so friendly. Other campsites are farther away so you get privacy.