The best camping near Zaleski State Forest

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

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Zaleski State Forest

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

Atkinson Ridge Hunters Camp

1 site · RV, Tent In Zaleski State Forest

Zaleski State Forest Horse Camp

16 sites In Zaleski State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Zaleski State Forest

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Nature's Way

22 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · 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. 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. If you are traveling with an RV, the Sunny Rest location is the best with campfire.

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Altenbrauch Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents62 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

Located only 8 miles from Hocking Hills State Park, Altenbrauch Farm features 62 acres of open fields, small streams and wooded hills intersected by a lonely country road. Aside from our house, there are no neighbors in sight. Easily pitch your tent in an open field or trek through the hills and hollows to find your perfect campsite.As part of Ohio's famous Hocking Hills Region, Vinton County is home to the second largest state forest, in addition to multiple state parks and wildlife areas. You’ll encounter abandoned historical sites and relics dating back to the early 1800s, hidden away among the wooded hills of Ohio’s least populated county. If you're a lover of outdoor recreation, this is the place to be. Within about a half-hour drive, there are many opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, hunting and fishing, and birding. Nearby parks and forests include Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking Hills State Forest, Lake Hope State Park, Zaleski State Forest, the Moonville Rail Trail, Lake Alma State Park, Tar Hollow State Forest, and more!Set up camp wherever you like! There are 12 acres of open field space, surrounded by 50 acres of wooded hills and hollows with hiking trails and level spots to pitch tents. Vehicles can be driven to the field sites; we are still working on a road to access the hill sites by vehicle. The fields have about a dozen "permanent" sites with stone or metal fire rings and log seating. Portable fire rings are also available that can be moved anywhere. Dead wood for campfires is free to gather, or split firewood is available to purchase for $5/bundle. A toilet and solar shower are located at the center of the property. An outdoor water spigot is also available. Guests are expected to follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. Any trash packed onto the property must be bagged and taken with you.

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Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

2 sites · Lodging50 acres · Thornville, OH

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.

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Camping with Unruly Goats

2 sites · RVs, Tents76 acres · 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.

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Bare Cove

70 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Millwood, WV

Bare Cove is a recreation lake with campsites. However, we are not your typical camp ground. We have no quiet hours, we do get loud and have a great time on the weekends. It’s not uncommon for beer pong or card games to go into the early hours. We are open to all ages and backgrounds, anybody that enjoys making friends and having fun on the lake. All guests must sign personal injury waivers to cover our 6. So about the property, it’s 120+ acres with a 5 acre man made lake that features blue waters, a beach area and tikibar. We have atv trails, private camp sites and group sites. Enjoy the day floating in the clear blue water, fishing (separate pond) or hiking. Our lake also features a launch pillow for blasting your friends up to 20 ft in the air! We do have large float's for rent, which are great for groups. Thanks for looking, would love to host you and your party out at the lake.

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Limestone Bluffs

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Jackson, OH

Disconnect to Reconnect at the Bluffs. The Bluffs is a 20 acre campground in Jackson, Ohio. Property highlights include a large fishing pond, trails for hiking, a port-a-potty and 7 campsites. Each site is secluded unique offering idyllic natural beauty and serenity. Our property currently hosts 6 total Camping Sites.... 3 of them are primitive camping sites that can be pull in's for truck or tent camping & 3 of them tent platform camping sites. Two that are single tiered, and one that we call "The Lookout" that is a 2 tiered platform with room below or above to pop your tent! (your choice). The lower level also includes an outdoor shower, a grill and prep/cooking space for you if you want to entertain guests or family! The property includes several trails, a fully stocked pond and a "Zen Den" Which is a walk up camping location, available for rent, and has a platform at the site as well. Just to give you a sneak peek into the future, we also have plans for a Community Kitchen, more Outdoor Showers and a Stage for concerts/events!! Located within the region and just a short 15-20 min drive from The Bluffs, you can find Lake Alma State Park, and Lake Katherine Nature Preserve, where there are beautiful waterfalls on display, and just a little jog north you can explore the famous Canter's Cave, Leo Petroglyphs Nature Preserve and Jackson Lake State Park. The Campground is just a 8 min drive from downtown Jackson, where you can stop in and sample some of their locally famous places! If your feeling pizza, then you have to try Cardo's or, LaRosa's Pizza, If you want some good local BBQ, hop on over to Rowdy's Smokehouse. If you want to try a Western themed Roadhouse, there's Dakota's, or you can relax by listening to some live music while you eat over at Stockroom 601. If Micro Brewery's are your thing Sixth Sense Brewing Co. is the place for you! Want to just take it easy and learn a little about the region? Jackson also hosts the Markay Cultural Arts Center, and Lillian Jones Museum. Everything you need for an absolutely memorable and relaxing getaway!!

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WALKAbOUT Creek Campground

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents132 acres · Chandlersville, OH

-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.

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SaltCreek Retreats

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents60 acres · Laurelville, OH

Welcome to The Thurston Family’s SaltCreek Retreats! We provide complete “Glamping” sites equipped with well stocked off grid Yurt , PawPaw Grove, which are Mini Convertible A Frame Cabins, Hawks Nest Cabin, a she shed cabin and 2 Basic rustic campsites to pitch your tent or camp in your van or car. We also offer the Wildcat Cabin w/3 Tom cats living there. Located outside of Laurelville in the Hocking Hills in Southeastern Ohio. Stay with us on private secluded campsites to escape the crowds!!! We even provide cut and stack firewood for your convenience! We ask for donations ($10 a large arm load) to help pay for the Old Man’s labor and fuel. We have a Bath House with Joolca's Nomad Hot Tap Kit. Nothing like taking an outdoor shower inside the newly constructed Bath House. We added a Solar shower backup also. We have walking trails, a small catch and release pond, Salt Creek is a creek running along the property with access near the Bridge. We are located within 20 minutes from 5 State Parks in the Hocking Hills. 2-1/2 miles from the Village of Laurelville which boasts 6 restaurants, a full service grocery store, butcher shop, gas station, bank, ATM and Old fashioned Hardware. It is a Dry Township so buy your liquor before you get here!

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Orchard View Farm & Show Cattle

6 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Stoutsville, OH

Our hobby farm located in Stoutsville, Ohio is conveniently located just 30 minutes South of Columbus, Ohio. Just 30 minutes North of the Hocking Hills Region and its many attractions. We are within minutes drive from many hiking trails, Kayaking, Canoeing, breweries, wineries, restaurants and more. The surrounding small towns of Circleville, Canal Winchester and Lancaster serve up quaint shops and local color. Plan your stay to coincide with some local events like the Lancaster festival or the World Famous Circleville pumpkin show! Our farm boasts three stocked ponds, walking paths and trails as well as cattle, goats, horses and other hobby farm animals. Bring your own kayaks or canoes and check out the ponds yourself. Or throw in a line and see what the catch of the day is! Enjoy unobstructed views of our beautiful midwestern sunrise and sunsets. Prior to our family purchasing the property back in 2007, the farm served as a third generation apple orchard. Many of those trees are still around in our three orchards, plus some new additions over the past few years. Not only do my husband and I call the farm home, my parents and sister do as well. We would be happy to host you here on our 130 acres of rolling hills and hay fields.

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Pop's Place Camping

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Corning, OH

A small primitive camping area in SE Ohio. We have 2 acres with four sites available. A short distance to Burr Oak State Park, Tecumseh Trails Off-road, Merckles offroad, Wayne National Forest, Bailey's Trail System and The Triple Nickel. A side x side, ATV or hunters paradise. We are also motorcycle friendly.

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Geode Nature Domes

4 sites · Lodging, Tents11 acres · Chillicothe, OH

Come for the thrill, stay for the chill. 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 glamping 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. 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:

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Hocking Vacations Campsites

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Logan, OH

Nestled in the heart of the Hocking Hills Region, Hocking Vacations Campsites offer a rustic retreat for those seeking to reconnect with the great outdoors. Guests can enjoy the central location and the close proximity to Hocking Hills State Park, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Whispering Pines, Conkles Hollow, Rock House, and many more! Our campsites offer many amenities to make your back-to-basics experience a comfortable and convenient one. Each campsite is clearly marked and has a 10 x10 wooden PLATFORM with rings to tie down your tent, fire ring, picnic table, and EMERGENCY USE fire blanket. HIKE TO SITE - you will be hiking between 120 and 240 yards to the campsites from the parking area, uphill, and on uneven terrain of mulched paths. There is a shared pull cart available. Recommend you arrive before dark. The parking area is well lit and there is a solar light above the site name sign. PARKING-There is easy access from the road to assigned parking spots, where you will find a well-maintained area with potable water, solar lighting, port-a-potty, fire extinguisher, shared metal cart and informational sign. You will hike to your reserved and private campsite. If needed and available, there is a metal cart to aid you in transporting your supplies to your site. FIREWOOD – Firewood bundles are for sale at a nearby property. Hocking Vacations Campsites are large, cleared areas located amidst towering trees and surrounded by lush foliage. You will be walking to your site on paths cleared of trees and dense foliage. Wear appropriate shoes as the paths are grassy, uneven in places and may have small roots. Visitors are invited to embrace the simplicity and serenity of wilderness camping and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The best camping near Zaleski State Forest guide

Overview

About

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

When to go

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

Know before you go

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