campgrounds in hocking hills ohio

Campgrounds in Hocking Hills, Ohio, offer one of the most scenic and adventurous outdoor experiences in the Midwest. With rugged caves, secluded waterfalls, sandstone gorges, and deep hemlock forests, this region in southeastern Ohio provides a perfect backdrop for any camper. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a family with young kids, or a couple seeking a quiet getaway, camping in Hocking Hills brings you face-to-face with breathtaking natural beauty and unmatched serenity.

Top-Rated Campgrounds in Hocking Hills, Ohio

If you’re visiting for the first time, staying near Hocking Hills State Park is a must. This iconic area includes Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls—easily accessible from the Hocking Hills State Park Campground. Recently upgraded, this campground features over 150 campsites, many with electric hookups, as well as flush toilets, hot showers, and a stocked camp store. Best of all, several trailheads are walkable from your site, offering early access before the day’s crowds arrive.

Plan ahead, as peak seasons book up quickly. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through the Ohio State Parks Reservation System. Families will appreciate the on-site pool and playground, while nature lovers will enjoy shaded, private sites tucked beneath tall trees. Interpretive programs and ranger-led hikes enhance the outdoor experience for all ages.

Another excellent option is Top O’ the Caves Campground, just five minutes from Old Man’s Cave. It combines tent and RV camping with resort-style amenities like mini-golf, a gem-mining station for kids, and a stocked fishing pond. Multiple accommodation styles make it a great choice for families or groups seeking different levels of camping comfort.

Hidden Gem Campgrounds in Hocking Hills, Ohio

Away from the bustling main trails are lesser-known campgrounds that offer peace without sacrificing proximity to nature’s highlights. Tucked into private land and surrounded by Appalachian woodlands, these hidden gems reveal a quieter side of Hocking Hills.

Lane’s End Retreat & Campground near Rockbridge is a serene, family-run haven with just 12 campsites and a selection of cozy cabins. Bordering Rockbridge State Nature Preserve—home to Ohio’s largest natural bridge—campers here enjoy intimate forest views and proximity to seldom-explored trails. It’s a great fit for wildlife watchers and those craving solitude.

Closer to the water, Campbell Cove Campground on Lake Logan offers easy lake access for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Thanks to its pet-friendly policy and peaceful atmosphere, the campground attracts outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Early mornings reveal mist rising off the lake, a perfect reward for sunrise risers and photographers.

For those craving raw adventure, the Zaleski State Forest Backpack Trail delivers a true off-grid experience just east of the main Hocking Hills area. With primitive campsites along a 23-mile backcountry loop, this spot invites campers to filter water, carry all supplies, and truly unplug. Download maps before departure as cell signal is minimal, and be prepared for elevation changes and deep woods immersion.

Family-Friendly Campgrounds and Activities

If you’re traveling with little explorers, there are campgrounds in Hocking Hills, Ohio, designed with families in mind. Hocking Hills KOA Holiday in Logan stands out for its variety of amenities—from a heated outdoor pool and dog park to playgrounds and large rental cabins. There’s even a pancake breakfast available at the camp store, perfect fuel before a day of hiking.

Families staying here are ideally placed for easy day trips to Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve. Its paved valley trail is both stroller- and toddler-friendly. For more action-packed adventure, nearby R Adventure Park features ziplining, a climbing wall, and guided ATV tours.

For all-ages lake fun, Happy Hills Campground near Laurelville is another strong choice. The property features a swimming lake with a sandy beach, paddleboats, basketball courts, and a well-equipped game room. With well-maintained sites and easy access to the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway, families can bike through lush Ohio landscapes at a leisurely pace. Rentals are available in nearby Logan and Nelsonville.

Insider Tips and Camping Essentials

The busiest season for campgrounds in Hocking Hills, Ohio, runs from May through October, with a sharp spike during leaf-peeping weekends in late September and early October. Booking in January is recommended for fall trips. Spring offers roaring waterfalls and fewer crowds, though wet trails may require waterproof hiking boots with solid traction.

Most campers stock up in Logan, which offers grocery stores like Kroger and Rite Aid. The Hocking Hills Market is ideal for local finds—from Amish baked goods to handcrafted souvenirs. For portable meals, don’t miss Chef Moe’s On The Go, known for smoked brisket and hearty sides.

Due to the threat of invasive species, firewood must be sourced locally. Several campgrounds sell bundles on-site. Water is generally treated and potable, but when backpacking or hiking longer distances, bring a filter or purification tablets just in case.

Evenings in the region are a chance to relax and reconnect. Many campgrounds host stargazing events or ranger talks in summer. Thanks to low light pollution, bring binoculars and download a stargazing app to enjoy celestial views from the comfort of your hammock or camp chair.

Experience the Best of Hocking Hills Through Camping

Camping in Hocking Hills, Ohio, offers more than sleep under the stars—it’s a fully immersive experience in one of the Midwest’s most stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re navigating mossy gorges, spotting herons at dawn, or roasting marshmallows with your kids around the fire, this region’s campgrounds open the door to unforgettable moments.

From modern, amenity-rich sites toprimitive hideaways by hidden trails, campgrounds in Hocking Hills, Ohio, cater to all styles and comfort levels. Ready to disconnect, breathe forest air, and explore trails that lead to waterfalls and ancient rock shelters? Pack your tent or prep the RV—Hocking Hills awaits with open skies, deep woods, and adventure around every bend.