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Fernwood State Forest

The best camping in Fernwood State Forest, OH

100% (3)

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Stories from the community

Francis

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to A-frame rustic cabin

Jim and Tracy have put a ton of care ant attention into this beautiful A-Frame cabin. It's a fantastic place to stay, and is just rustic enough to feel close to nature while enjoying some thoughtful amenities. Highly recommend to anyone!

Jillian

1 week ago

With pets

1 night at A-frame rustic cabin

This was the absolute perfect place for me on a long road trip, this cabin has everything you need for a comfortable stay. It's secluded but the hosts aren't far if you need anything else in a snap. The cabin itself and the surrounding area is so beautiful! It was nice to watch the sun rise from the comfort of my bed. J&T are very responsive, and even went out of their way to mail me a pair of earrings I left there, couldn't recommend this place enough!

Ariel

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to A-frame rustic cabin

My dog Teemo and I had a wonderful stay at Jim and Tracy’s A-frame cabin. They really thought of everything when putting this place together. When I arrived after dark, I wasn’t sure I was in the right spot and had spotty service, but Jim showed up within minutes and even started a fire for us while we settled in! The cabin had all the necessities for a cozy weekend — plenty of firewood included, a warm bathroom with a handwashing station, and even a guitar, which was such a nice touch to play by the fire. There are a couple of dollar stores nearby for snacks or produce, which was really convenient. Teemo and I were very comfortable and appreciated how thoughtful and responsive Jim was. We will definitely be back!

Eric

2 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Memory Park Campground

Beautiful property with everything you need. Highly recommend a stay!

April

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to DLR Mustang Ranch

Absolutely loved this place. My husband and I stayed the weekend to explore the area for our final trip for the year. The cabin was so cozy,we did have our air mattress with us just incase I was unable to sleep on the futon but was surprisingly comfortable. We were exploring most of the time but getting to see and pet the horses was amazing. Thank you for opening your home to us.

kevin

3 weeks ago

Group trip

5 nights at Friendly Beasts Farm - Barn Loft

We planned a hunting trip and the Friendly Beasts Farm Barn Loft was a perfect choice. Spacious,clean, cookware, spices all the toiletries everything you needed for a quiet getaway,just show up with food and cloths and enjoy. The sunsets from the back deck to all the star gazing,it was truly the perfect choice. Frances and Matthew were wonderful hosts,very attentive with all our needs. Our next hunting trip I hope the Barn Loft is available.

Todd

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Fiat Hill Hip Camp

Jody is a great host and her land is beautiful. We wanted to escape the city and have a chance to see the northern lights. It was amazing to sit out in her field and watch shooting stars and the aurora!

Aurelio

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fiat Hill Hip Camp

We loveD our site so much! Camping in such a beautiful, picturesque area was needed so badly. Jody was an absolute awesome host and I encourage others to check them out!

Rebecca

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to DLR Mustang Ranch

I had such an amazing time on the property! It was the exact environment I was looking for to take a break by myself. Renee and Dale were fantastic folks to meet. The cabin was adorable. Just absolutely what I needed!

Jesse

November 2025

Weekend Trip to A-frame rustic cabin

Another great weekend at Jim and Tracy's place, they have added a hot shower, which is great after a cold evening. Just as before, everything is perfect, and we will be back

Mary

October 2025

1 night at The Camp Cabin at the Hallstead

We had a rainy night but the cabin was filled with puzzles and games. We had a great time!

Daniel

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to A-frame rustic cabin

10/10. Would give it 6 stars if I could. This place was the perfect escape. First, the location is amazing. Tucked away, quiet, and—the best part—absolutely zero cell service. My phone became a very expensive brick, and it was glorious. Highly recommend. The A-frame itself is pure cozy. It got a little chilly, but we fired up the wood-burning stove and that helped keep the cold away Also, can we talk about the bathroom? Clean. Close by. Not a terrifying spider-shed a half-mile away. We over-packed by a large amount. Don't be like us. Just bring your clothes, some food, and a good attitude. The host has already thought of everything else. We'll definitely be back, just with about 80% less stuff.

victoria

October 2025

Weekend Trip to A-frame rustic cabin

Absolutely loved staying at the A frame cabin. My partner and I brought our two dogs. Had a great time having bonfires and checking out trails. They also left a pumpkin for us to carve which was so fun and nice of Jim and Tracy to do! Rented the diesel heater and it was well worth it! Jim came and gave us a visit and was very kind. Would definitely recommend checking this place out and hope to come back in the future! :)

Kyle

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Camp Cabin at the Hallstead

A terrific stay. Feel like you are in the country, but close enough to civilization in case anything happens. The cabin is perfect. Host communicates quickly. The barn was a big hit with my two young girls. Cozy and quiet. Would definitely stay here again.

Aishwarya

October 2025

2 nights at DLR Mustang Ranch

We loved staying at the cabin. It was well furnished and had an amazing view. We had a great time interacting with the farm animals, specially the horses and the cats. The hosts were amazing and went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. We are definitely going back for another stay. I would recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a farm stay.

Julie

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at The Camp Cabin at the Hallstead

Wow! What gems this cabin, this farm, and this host are!! Our kids were enchanted by the many activities (the barn being highlighted!) and I adored the cozy cabin. We can’t wait to come back!

Greta

October 2025

1 night at A-frame rustic cabin

Stayed here for a night while on a road trip, and absolutely loved it!! Jim and Tracy have thought of literally everything one could need - such a comfortable and easy stay, while still getting that camping vibe. Communication was great, land was beautiful, and felt safe as a solo camper. Would recommend.

Jeanette

October 2025

1 night at A-frame rustic cabin

One night is not enough!! We were relieved we had a second night here. We did NOT want to leave after the first night.

Jeanette

October 2025

1 night at A-frame rustic cabin

I rented this site with my partner for my birthday and to see someone else’s take on a smaller of off-grid lifestyle. (Apparently one you can haul up a mountain if inspired.) Fantastic communication with our hosts set us up for success. Jim and Tracy are so considerate! The site is away from the road enough and the view from the A-frame is pointed away from the driveway (see photo). We enjoyed hearing different birds and the quiet. Almost no outside noise, just an occasional distant truck. A beautiful variety of trees surround the A-frame. The deck and fire pit area are wonderful to relax in. One of my favorite parts was enjoying the small wood burner inside at the end of the day. So happy we booked here!

Tom

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Runnin Crazy Farm

Description was detailed and goat sounds were real. Horses roam in their fenced area.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Fernwood State Forest

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(3)

Hidden Hollow Campground

22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Fernwood State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

A-frame rustic cabin

100%

(23)

22mi from Fernwood State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Salineville, OH

Bookings by request only. We want to make sure you’ll be equipped for limited amenities and primitive conditions. 3 miles from Dollar stores and fuel in Salineville, Ohio, **Primitive camping! Bare bones facility after November 30th. Book if you are an advanced winter camper only. (Bring your own bedding, cooking supplies, and as nightly temperatures drop, we will offer a Buddy heater at no additional charge, (bring your own 1lb or 20lb propane bottle) Secluded one acre lot on dead end road surrounded by hundreds of acres of woods. (The aerial map images are outdated. There are no other structures on this property) **2 campers recommended for Cabin ** Additional tent camping allowed at $10/person Included: - 8x10’ TINY a-frame cabin on a 12’x18’ deck with a 42"x6' loft and removable ladder. Lots of natural lighting! - Dutch style door with drop down screens, rear window is removable with a privacy curtain, and screen for air flow -Tiny stainless wood burner in cabin No water, bring your own after November 30th. -2 cots, 2 chairs, 1 table, auxiliary solar power for phone charging *(Bring an air mattress or air pads for more comfort, we understand that cots aren’t ideal for everyone) - fire pit with light duty grate for cooking, an additional state park style charcoal grill, lighter fluid provided (bring your own charcoal) - Primitive. Portable toilet removed for winter. Bathroom removed. (Composting sawdust bucket system outdoors only) - Lots of wildlife. Pines for hammocks(one hammock included) Lake view when leaves are off of trees. - plenty of space available to set up tents for your guests if you prefer. ***Firewood change: first bundle free. $5 additional bundle 10 pieces Feel free to reconfigure the cabin ****************************************************Please see our "extras" section for anything additional you may need, or something not on the list. We are avid campers ourselves! If you are a first-time camper venturing out and are a little nervous, we understand! Reach out and we can help you build your list.

DLR Mustang Ranch

100%

(18)

23mi from Fernwood State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salineville, OH

Located roughly 20 miles from Beaver Creek State Park, DLR Mustang Ranch is a 17-acre peaceful sanctuary for many wild and previously wild mustangs. The Ranch offers veteran and first responder mustang programs year-round. Please let us know if you are a veteran or first responder for a special rate. Accommodations include a small one-room cabin nestled on a little pond a stone's throw from the main house and veteran program area. The cabin has electricity, a microwave, small refrigerator, tv, futon, heating and cooling; however, it does not have plumbing. Nearby is an outhouse with electricity and a water pump fed from well water. There is a firepit for cooking and picnic tables available. There is also a flat space for tent camping right beside the cabin area. The outhouse and firepit are shared between the cabin and tent campers. If you prefer a more secluded experience, please book both sites. There is space for an RV in the driveway next to the woods with electric hookup and access to the outhouse, water pump, and firepit. While this is a working ranch with farm animals, our aim is to create a peaceful relaxing environment in order to unwind and enjoy the creation around us. Going in the pastures with horses while unaccompanied by the owners is prohibited; however, it can be arranged for you to meet and interact with the mustangs if interested. There are other farm animals including a sheep, a goat, pigs, donkeys, peacocks, turkeys, chickens, ducks and barn cats on the premises. If you want a quaint country escape complete with farm sounds, this is the spot for you!

Camp Presmont Camping

95%

(40)

27mi from Fernwood State Forest · 38 sites · Tents, Lodging · Piedmont, OH

At Camp Presmont our Mission Statement is: Employing the beauty of creation, Camp Presmont exists to serve the church, nurture the family, and reach the lost with the gospel in the power of the Spirit to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. By offering individual site rentals we are able to reach even more people for Christ. We do have a no drugs or alcohol policy for our property, this includes smoking. We feel that we have a small slice of paradise out here, so please come and check us out. The camp is located right above beautiful Peidmont lake, giving you a great view and opportunity for activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. We also have plenty of other activities available like basketball, volleyball, hiking, disc golf and more. (Bring own balls and discs). We would love to have you out and share with you the beauty that is our camp!

Cliff Mine Heights

100%

(41)

30mi from Fernwood State Forest · 1 site · RV · Coraopolis, PA

We purchased the property as a foreclosure five years ago, and have been remodeling ever since. The property is located close to all the city amenities we love, but still gives us the privacy we wanted. Learn more about this land: The RV site is next to the house and is nearly level. (30A plug available) Road is visible from RV site, large backyard with fire pit is available. Local Park, wave pool, bike trails, shopping, and local eats or all within a 5 minute drive, some even within walking distance! JoJo's dinner is just around the corner.

Memory Park Campground

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(204)

31mi from Fernwood State Forest · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · Mineral City, OH

Memory Park is a primitive, beautifully maintained family-owned private campground located near beautiful Atwood Lake State Park. First developed in 1968, Memory Park offers peace, quiet, and tranquility for you and your family for that perfect weekday or weekend getaway . There are plenty of primitive sites to choose from, including Murphy Meadow, Outback Bend, Honeymoon Point, and Shady Rest, just to name a few. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire pit. Firewood is available ($10 through hipcamp or cash on-site per full wheelbarrow load). Memory Park is the ideal rustic environment to restore the soul, including simple activities like sitting around a fire, reading or taking a nap, hiking, cooking over the fire, observing nature, and enjoying fellowship with friends. Memory Park can be your 'go to' camp spot, especially for Buckeye Trail hikers! Water is available from two hand pumps on the property. Electricity is not available. Quiet generators are welcome. A clean port-a-jon is maintained for our campers.

Runnin Crazy Farm

96%

(260)

39mi from Fernwood State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · New Brighton , PA

Growing up and building on the back of our Family Farm is the best goal I ever set for myself! My Off-Grid 20 acres has raised my 2 kids and all the animals we could rescue! We run a Horse Boarding Facility along with Freezer Meat of all sorts. It's a small Hobby Farm but we love it all the same! Family environment that's down to earth! Learn more about this land: Sites 1 and 2 are for campers/tents. Sites 3 and 4 are tent only spots. No shade. Top tent spots up in field (3 and 4) need a higher vehicle to get to them. A bit Off Road. 3 has privacy with Antique Trailer but 4 is wide open. Fire ring at all of them/with wood. Horse stalls/guided trails available for the campers bringing their own horses. If advanced notice, an hour Lesson or Ride can be scheduled. Our animals are friendly and love attention. Dogs welcome but need a leash. Our Family run Farm is willing to accommodate your needs. Book a stay with us as you pass on thru. (Totally Off Grid livin my dream. Remember to burn burnables and take non burnables with you. Generators welcome) Thanx!

Fombell Landing

95%

(159)

43mi from Fernwood State Forest · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Fombell, PA

A secluded waterfront campground that offers off grid and primitive camping as well as tear drop and RV locations. Fishing, kayaking, and much more. Just outside Zelienople Pennsylvania. The campground is split into two separate, but close locations. Sites 115 A-D, 129 A-D, 139 A, and 158 A-C, start at the address 115 Narrows Rd Fombell, PA 16123. Sites 126 A-I are located at 126 Lend Street, Fombell PA 16123. Please park safely and call Curt upon arrival.

Towpath Trail Peace Park

93%

(215)

44mi from Fernwood State Forest · 5 sites · Tents · Bolivar, OH

Primitive tent camping on the Greenville Peace Treaty Line, Buckeye Trail, Ohio-Erie Canal Towpath Trail, Scenic Byway, Tuscarawas River Water Trail, and the Great American Rail Trail! Located on the historic Ohio-Erie Canal between the village of Bolivar Ballparks and the McDonnell trailheads on the towpath trail ten miles south of Canton, Ohio, and 1.5 miles west of I-77 exit 93 on Scenic Byway Rt 212 in beautiful Tuscarawas County, Ohio. The Peace Park is designed for bikers, hikers, dog walkers, and anyone traveling through to book a campsite even if anyone isn't available to meet and greet. Campers, once booked may go to an available campsite and set up camp. Dog-friendly, handicapped-accessible Porta-Jon with hand sanitizer, shared electricity for charging phones, pristine aquifer water, picnic tables, fire pits, fire-side benches, birds, butterflies, lightning bugs, wild turkeys, deer, and other wildlife are often seen. Please note: We're located on a section of the Ohio-Erie Canal Scenic Byway, the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad, and a 90-degree corner with a slight slope that causes trucks to downshift brakes. If you're a light sleeper, we recommend bringing earplugs! We now offer disposable individual packaged earplugs in our Porta-Jon.

Sycamore Island

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(14)

48mi from Fernwood State Forest · 1 site · Tent · Blawnox, PA

Camp on an island only accessible by boat/kayak/canoe or however you want to get across the river! Please read the full description. The island is open to visitors from dawn to dusk to enjoy the trails and wild scenery. Camp reservations secure your overnight visit to stay at the designated campsite area, which has a fire ring for cooking, a picnic table, and room for a tent or hammock. Sycamore Island can only be reached by your own canoe, kayak, or rowboat; watercraft is not provided. You are required to have a permit for an overnight stay: Please sign this form before submitting your stay request. https://alleghenylandtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Camping-at-Sycamore-Island-Rules-and-Regulations-4.5.16-Fillable.pdf Please plan your visit in advance- requests to camp the same day or day before may not receive a timely approval. Sycamore Island and its campsite are managed by Allegheny Land Trust, a 501c3 land conservation nonprofit helping local people save local land in the Pittsburgh region. We are able to review and respond to camping requests Monday - Friday between 9 am - 5 pm. Acquired and protected by Allegheny Land Trust in 2008, Sycamore Island is a floodplain forest with a ranking of “high significance” within the Allegheny River Biological Diversity Area (BDA) Natural Heritage Area. Before the island was protected by ALT, the island had periodic interludes of recognition and appreciation by humans as a natural refuge. In 1936, both Sycamore Island and Nine Mile Island were leased from the Pennsylvania Railroad by the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, making these islands the first bird sanctuaries in the Pittsburgh region. The Harbor Isle Boat Club was in existence on the island during the late 1960s but was later abandoned leaving behind several significant features; including a barge that remains embedded in the sand at the island’s southern tip, a partially installed swimming pool, docking platform, and a series of offshore pilings in the back channel.

Fiat Hill Hip Camp

100%

(33)

49mi from Fernwood State Forest · 5 sites · Tents · Baltic, OH

Learn more about this land:Fiat Hill Camp is located in heart of Amish country on the first Ohio State Road with many things to do and see. A working Amish family farm borders the camp. Serenity....wildlife, birds, bull frogs crooking. You may even see an eagle. Sunsets are breath taking from top of hill. Local wineries, Wooly Pig Brewery, Little Switzerland (Sugarcreek) with Worlds largest Cuckoo Clock, Age of Steam Round House Museum, Put-Put Golf, Amish Home Country Cooking restaurants, Ragersville Tavern and much more all within 10 to 30 minutes away.

The Camp Cabin at the Hallstead

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(150)

52mi from Fernwood State Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · Hartville , OH

This small farm is 7 acres of the original 25 my great grandmother purchased for her family in 1934. Guests can enjoy the cabin as well as the barn, which has been converted to a rec area. Make our home and green space yours for a few days. Camp in comfort in our "little cabin in the woods." Accommodates up to six guests, with a queen-sized bed, a futon and two low single beds in the loft, accessible only by ladder. Kids 6 and older may sleep in the loft-- just like Laura and Mary-- and they can read a chapter of one of Laura Ingalls' "Little House" books before bed! The Camp Cabin contains a small refrigerator, microwave and gas fireplace (no, the pioneers didn’t have that!). Fresh eggs and other snacks are provided for breakfast. The restroom and shower are located in the walkout basement of the farmhouse, a 40 yard walk from the Cabin. The restroom has a private entrance and is used only by guests during their stay. Pet and feed goats and other farm animals. Enjoy fun activities on the farm and in the barn.

Purple Farm-OH Glamping Platform

2.5mi from Fernwood State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Wintersville, OH

🌲 Adventure Awaits at Our Rustic 4-Acre Getaway Near Pittsburgh, PA 🌲 Reconnect with nature at this peaceful Purple Farm Retreat, back-to-basics campsite nestled on 4 rustic acres — just 40 minutes from Pittsburgh, 2 hours from Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and 2 hours from Columbus, OH. Whether you're looking for a weekend escape or a basecamp for regional adventures, this is the perfect spot to unplug and breathe in the wild. 🏕️ Elevated Camping, Elevated Comfort at Purple Farm Retreat Pitch your own tent on one of our spacious 10x10 elevated wooden platforms, thoughtfully designed to give campers a dry, level, and comfortable setup. Bring your favorite gear and make it your own glamping-lite experience with the added security of being off the ground — perfect after a day of hiking, stargazing, or exploring. 🔥 Communal Comforts; Campfire Vibes Make memories at our open-air common area, where new friendships are sparked over stories and s’mores. You’ll find outdoor grilling area available in the communal zone, ideal for cooking up meals with a view. Or feel free to use our firepits to create a cozy nighttime settings. Please note: open fires are allowed only in designated areas for safety and environmental protection. Each site comes with a starter bundle of firewood, and more may be available for purchase depending on availability. We kindly ask all guests to refrain from smoking in tents or near wooded areas to protect the land and your fellow campers. 🌄 Why You’ll Love It Here: Quick access to Pittsburgh's outdoor gems; city perks Within a half-day’s drive of major attractions in Ohio Small, intimate site with plenty of space and privacy A place to reconnect, unwind, and rediscover simple joys Whether you’re road-tripping across the state, planning a nature-forward group hangout, or simply craving a tech-free weekend under the stars, our land welcomes you. Book your stay, bring your sense of adventure, and let the outdoors work its magic. 🏕️✨

The best camping in Fernwood State Forest, OH guide

Overview

About

Prepare to have your breath taken away—Fernwood State Forest boasts over 3,000 acres of stunning vistas and hunting and fishing galore. Lace up your must trusted pair of boots and hike some of the three-mile loop trails that lead to scenic views of the countryside, then look to the wildlife for some good game. Anglers will love the pond fishing dispersed throughout the area, stocked with bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass just waiting to be fried up for that next campfire meal. With ranges open daily from sunrise to sunset, hunters can chase down white-tailed deer or small animals like grouse or rabbit to stock up the freezer for winter.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Fernwood State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage presents a stunning display of colors. Summer offers a full bloom of forest life, though it can be quite warm. Winters are less crowded but can be cold, so prepare accordingly.

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 trip within these times.
Remember to leave no trace; pack out all your trash to keep the forest pristine.
Some areas may be inaccessible due to seasonal closures or maintenance; check the latest updates online.
While amenities may be limited, ensure you have enough supplies and water for your adventure.

100%

3 ratings · 1 review

September 2017

Hidden Hollow Campground

This is an excellent campground, especially for the price! We stayed an extra night here. During the day you can often hear the folks shooting at the different ranges (pistol, clay, rifle) that you drive past on your way in. Some hiking trails and vaulted toilets.