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Hocking State Forest

The best camping in Hocking State Forest, OH

100% (2)

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Stories from the community

Kirby

4 days ago

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

Peaceful and beautiful! Enjoyed my stay in the Sugar Shack, it was just what the doctor ordered. A place to get away after the holiday craziness and just unwind. Will definitely be looking at trying to go back. 😎

Tyler

6 days ago

19 ft campervan

1 night at A Place Aglow Behind The Chateau

Great hospitality, met us at the end of the road and showed us to site 10/10 recommend!

Katie

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Yourway Camp

The site was huge and pristine! The weather was not ideal for us novice campers, however, and we cut our trip a day short. But the location was wonderful, and the site was lovely, and the portapotty was very convenient. We will definitely consider returning in the spring with a better tent 😉

Paul

1 week ago

1 night at Woody Acres

Amazing campground, and Austin & Kate were awesome. Highly recommend whether it's hot or cold, this place takes care of you. And be sure to just buy their wood for your fires, it's cheaper than Kroger, and it burns way longer. Can't wait to bring my kids here, they'd have an absolute blast. I recorded my stay, you can find it @AYearInOhio on YouTube, dated 11/24/2025

Christopher

1 week ago

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Woody Acres

A nice Hipcamp done exceptionally well. The Stargazer site is next to the owners driveway but don’t let that stop you. Their property is quiet and peaceful with well maintained walking trails and a great privy. We had a wonderful stay and enjoyed talking with the owners and getting to visit with their cat. It was a perfect evening in a location with many parks in the area.

Scott

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to A Place Aglow Behind The Chateau

Very clean, cozy and convenient. Great setting. Very close to Hilliard (10 minutes) so easy and close to many amenities. Private and safe.

Christina

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Altenbrauch Farm

Best part... The stars at night. Beautiful! Porta pot was clean. Camp store was a nice touch. Wish we would have looked at the map better. We would have taken a hike. The location and no interaction with ppl was enjoyable. Nice property, my sister and I would totally come back to camp. Thank u for having us. Perfect birthday weekend 🏕️

Amanda

2 weeks ago

23 ft toy hauler

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Benton's on the Baileys

This is our second time staying here! The site is very close to multiple mountain biking trailheads and the host is very responsive and helpful.

Elizabeth

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Geode Nature Domes

I had a lot of fun on this trip! The dome was nice and comfy even though there were a bit of ladybugs inside seeking warmth I assume. I didn’t mind either way because being in nature comes with the bugs. speaking of warmth, the heater kept us warm throughout the night even overheating us at points until we realized there was a temperature set on it. I’m very glad that accommodation was there for the cold. I do suggest getting there before it starts getting dark so you can get a fire going for light when nighttime comes. Even though the bathroom is a bit of walk (as expected with camping), it was a very nice bathroom and well kept. Definitely bring some flashlights or have your phone with you for light because there isn’t too much lighting provided outside except for some lamps and ground lights here and there along the trail to the dome. The area around the dome and the dome itself felt very private and secluded so it really made you feel immersed in nature. I saw some reviews saying all they heard were cars because it is next to a road, but the dome is up in the hills so there were barely cars driving by and I didn’t notice them. I also saw reviews saying the dome in right next to the owners home and it didn’t feel private. Even though I saw the home in the distance, They have fences built around the dome to ensure campers’ privacy. Overall we really enjoyed our stay and suggest it for anyone looking for a getaway. One night was a relief from our unnaturally busy lives!

Bethany

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Nature's Way

It's easy and convenient to get and stay. It's cheap and the dude who runs it is cool and understanding

Ian

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Yourway Camp

Perfect place for car camping and exploring the Hocking Hills region! Had no problem getting to our site even with slightly balded tires and some mud. Lovely property with towering hills surrounding you. In early November there wasn’t much foliage and so you can see the house and the other campsites but we were the only ones so it was no problem. Great fire ring, picnic table, and a nice love seat rocking bench. Was able to get WiFi by walking up near the house and the property was peaceful without any commotion! Our animals loved it too and really wanted to explore the hills and trails.

Jordan

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds

We loved our stay at hilltop resorts! The cabin was so cute and very clean. Definitely would stay here again

Dave

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yourway Camp

As always a great stay each time we’ve stayed here we’ve tried a different site and have liked all that we’ve seen so far

Ash

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Woody Acres

Super cute space with great little amenities. The property is also lovely and we're super excited to stay again when we have more free time for the awesome classes the hosts offer. Definitely give this spot a chance and enjoy your stay 🙂

Paul

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Pop's Place Camping

Amazing place and amazing hosts. The cabin was immaculate, the campgrounds were beautiful. You're in the sticks here, so bring a book and get your lungs ready for some pure air. I recorded my visit at Pop's, you can watch it here- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_syNQohmqs

Phylip

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

We didn’t pick the best weekend to go camping, but Aimee’s land made the stay the best that it could have been with the wet weather. The outhouse was convenient and conveniently located to our relocated site, since our van only allowed us to park at site 1. I didn’t realize that the other sites were walking access only, and especially since the land was wet, our van, which was our RV, prevented us from accessing our original requested location. The sauna was a feature that we really enjoyed; and the wood, which was convenient to buy there, after many attempts in the wet weather, finally took fire. Overall, considering the conditions, Aimee’s property made the stay the best.

Aaron

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Geode Nature Domes

This was a really peaceful and chill experience. We came out to get away from the city and it was a perfect little retreat. The stay was well accommodated and the dome tent was such a fresh and easy way to camp. Even though it rained, we stayed dry and the next day was lovely enough to enjoy some of the great natural hikes in the area.

Eric and Aline

3 weeks ago

36 ft Class A

2 nights at Butterfly Valley at Zaleski

Amazing location, definitely off the beaten track. Loved the privacy, the scenic oasis and the trails along the river/creek. Our dog Gemma, loved to run free on her walks with her owners, including the rail trail. The colors of autumn were such an enjoyable treat from this location. If you’re in the area, it’s a gem!

Thomas

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Altenbrauch Farm

This was our 2nd time staying at Caleb’s, very beautiful place and quiet. All the hocking hills attractions aren’t too far away and the town of McArthur has a few family owned restaurants with good food and atmosphere. Highly recommend staying here!

Maggie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yourway Camp

Private, serene, and accommodating hosts. Loved how quiet it was, and couldn’t see any other campers. The hill up is serious, but totally doable with all wheel drive.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Hocking State Forest

100%

(2)

Hocking State Forest Horse Camp

3mi from Hocking State Forest · 23 sites · in Hocking State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Fruitdale Farm

99%

(1186)

44mi from Hocking State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bainbridge, OH

Come stay at our little sustainable farmstead amid the beautiful rolling hills of southern Ohio! Our peaceful 20 acres has a good mix of woods, wild meadows and maintained cleared areas as well as a small pond, all of which can be explored via our nature trail. Enjoy the sounds of nature and an incredible night sky. FIREWOOD and seasonal farm goods are available for purchase at a self-serve stand (several payment options available). There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved (go to sauna to reserve a time). Great hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, swimming, and disc-golfing opportunities just a few miles away at Paint Creek State Park and the Highland Nature Sanctuary. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. This area is home to an impressive network of ancient earthworks including the world famous Serpent Mound. Our accommodations range from primitive tent-camping to "glamping" in one of our tiny off-grid cabins. The sites are spaced out for privacy and each site offers a private picnic table and fire pit. There are two shared privies/outhouses which have basic composting toilets (not flushing). A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN (with the exception of site #1). ***Please take note that this is private property and the host lives on site. If you are looking for a place to be loud and party into the night, this is not the place for you. If you are looking to spend some quality time in nature, welcome. There are rules.

Woody Acres

98%

(88)

11mi from Hocking 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

Camping with Unruly Goats

98%

(443)

28mi from Hocking State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Groveport, OH

Learn more about this land: Harrison Farm is a working livestock farm, with goats, sheep, chickens, rabbits, ducks, a horse, a donkey, and super friendly barn cats. We host many events, including yoga classes, tours, on-Farm dinners, and private parties. We are located thirty minutes from downtown Columbus, just outside of historic Canal Winchester, and only five minutes from BrewDog. The hills of southeastern Ohio are close by, with Lancaster only twenty minutes away, and just an hour’s drive to Hocking Hills or Tar Hollow. We welcome you to relax in solitude, or join us to learn more about farming. Please note: when you arrive, please text and we will assist you with parking. Harrison Farm is a working farm, with all the real sights, sounds, and smells of a working livestock farm. We love sharing the farm with our visitors, and we want to make sure our guests know that camping at a farm means that it will truly be a farm. The goats thank you for understanding and respecting their home!

Almosta Farm

83%

(3)

25mi from Hocking State Forest · 3 sites · Tents · Chillicothe, OH

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Enjoy the sounds and view of our mini farm featuring horses, donkeys, goats, turkeys, ducks, dogs, peafowl, rabbits, cows and chickens and the beautiful tree line at our pet friendly site! Games like corn hole and can jam are provided for your entertainment! A peaceful get away, yet minutes from town, yoctangee park and paint creek!

A Place Aglow Behind The Chateau

97%

(32)

49mi from Hocking State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Galloway, OH

Located in the trees behind our home, you will find a quiet spot to relax and unwind. With paths to explore, scavenger hunts for the kids upon request, and several metro parks nearby, you will find plenty to do. Wildlife can often be seen. Games and other amenities available upon request, including firewood!

Yourway Camp

98%

(148)

7.1mi from Hocking 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.

Benton's on the Baileys

97%

(154)

21mi from Hocking State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Millfield, OH

Learn more about this land:Primitive tent camping in Wayne National forest. This area is in extremely private area right off the the Baileys trail system. Recently cleared and leveled terrain with a plethora of trees surrounding it. Enjoy your time around the firepit while preparing dinner on the provided picnic table. Whether you are enjoying the Baileys trail system or hiking in Hocking Hills this a prime location for outdoor enthusiast. Athens county has many locally sourced restaurants and breweries to explore and experience. Please feel free to reach out and contact me with any question.

Nature's Way

98%

(192)

5.6mi from Hocking State Forest · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · Rockbridge, OH

Visiting the Hocking Hills ? No interest in crowded campgrounds ? you have found 75 acres mostly wooded with trails right at the start of the Hocking Hills. (easy access from 33 and to Logan) There are various places around the property to pitch a tent. There are also options for RV parking with no hookups as well as a site with 30/50 amp. I can transport you and your gear to the remote sites. ATV's are also welcome on the property. Firewood will be provided for free and in abundant amount. The site on top of the hill is a very secluded and mowed crest of hill surrounded by dogwood trees and the invasive Autumn Olive bushes. The site above the rxrwinery.com is a secluded, mowed clearing in the mature woods. There are also 2 sites in the valley that allow you to be near your vehicle. While on my property, clothing is optional but respect for other campers is expected. If you are traveling with an RV, the Sunny Rest location is the best with campfire. This is a valley and may get soft after heavy rain. Please keep wheels near the lane if there's any question to the ground conditions and maneuvering your vehicle, please contact me. Apple product GPS will not get you to this location, use the pin on Google Maps.

RusticAppalachian Cabin on BeefFarm

92%

(109)

33mi from Hocking State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Stockport, OH

We have been raising our family & Grassfed Angus Beef here since 1984.

Altenbrauch Farm

98%

(499)

10mi from Hocking 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.

Geode Nature Domes

95%

(70)

20mi from Hocking 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:

Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds

97%

(57)

7.1mi from Hocking State Forest · 45 sites · RVs, Lodging · Logan, OH

Hilltop Resorts uniquely combines the amenities and luxuries of a resort with a more natural campground setting, giving you the best of both worlds! Feel close to nature, in a serene, unassuming environment, while staying in comfort and experiencing a wide range of amenities that we offer. Whether you are looking for Cabin stays, RV parks, Glamping, or Camping, we have them all! Hilltop Resorts is an ideal spot for those seeking cabin stays, RV camping, glamping, or camping in Hocking Hills. Situated by Lake Logan, it offers convenient access to Hocking Hills and nearby attractions. You can unwind in the resort’s cabins or RV park, as well as various glamping and tent sites, and appreciate the stunning scenery of Hocking Hills. At Hilltop Resorts, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of amenities and activities that are designed to engage not only our small guests but also those who are young at heart. Our guests can enjoy a variety of exciting activities and facilities, ensuring that everyone has a memorable and enjoyable stay with us.

The best camping in Hocking State Forest, OH guide

Overview

About

Bring that trusty bag of climbing chalk, because Hocking State Forest is the perfect getaway for your inner climber. Featuring nearly 10,000 acres of forest land, it will be hard not to notice the colorful outcroppings of trees in the fall and the stark rocks found year-round. Park your beat up Chevy in the parking area off of Big Pine Road, then get down to work on rappelling the rocks and cliff face with your ideal climbing partner. With an additional 60 miles of hiking and 40 miles of bridle trails, it may take more than just a couple days to explore this expansive gem.

When to go

The best times to visit Hocking State Forest are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is either blooming or showcasing a vibrant array of colors. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for higher temperatures and busier trails. Winter can be magical with snow-covered trees, though some areas may be less accessible.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season, as conditions can change rapidly.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your visit accordingly.
Stay on marked trails to protect the forest's delicate ecosystem and your own safety.
Some areas may have limited cell phone reception; download maps and trail guides beforehand.
Bring your own water and snacks, as facilities may be limited within the forest.

100%

2 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· February 2017

Hocking State Forest Horse Camp

You can never go wrong in the hills 😎 hammock heaven

Adam W.

8 years on Hipcamp