Newbie’s Guide to Hocking Hills Tent Camping

hocking hills tent camping

Whether coming from the city, suburbs, or another place near or far, Hocking Hills has campsites to bring everyone together. It all starts with finding a cozy spot to set up for a bit to start and end the day. Find out when the best weather is to camp, what gear to bring, and where to head out for the best place to experience Hocking Hills tent camping.

The Newbie’s Guide to Hocking Hills Tent Camping

If you’re a newbie to tent camping and planning a trip to Hocking Hills, Ohio, you’re in for a treat! The Hocking Hills region is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the state, and camping in the area is a great way to experience it up close. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your tent camping experience in Hocking Hills:

  1. Choose the Right Campground: Hocking Hills has a variety of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique features and amenities. Some campgrounds offer primitive tent camping, while others have more developed sites with electricity and water hookups. Research the different options and choose the one that best fits your needs.
  2. Plan for the Weather: The weather in Hocking Hills can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared. Bring plenty of warm clothing, even in the summer months, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. Make sure you have a sturdy, waterproof tent, and consider bringing a tarp to put underneath it to protect against moisture.
  3. Pack the Essentials: When packing for your camping trip, make sure to bring the essentials, such as a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camping stove, and plenty of food and water. It’s also a good idea to bring a first-aid kit, bug spray, and sunscreen.
  4. Respect Nature: Hocking Hills is a pristine natural area, and it’s important to leave it that way. Make sure to properly dispose of all trash and waste, and follow any rules or regulations set by the campground.
  5. Explore the Area: One of the best parts of camping in Hocking Hills is the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. Take advantage of nearby hiking trails, waterfalls, and other natural attractions to fully experience all that Hocking Hills has to offer.

Tent camping in Hocking Hills is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and experience the beauty of the area up close. With a little preparation and a sense of adventure, your camping trip is sure to be a memorable one!

Camping Spots for Tent Camping in Hocking

Hocking Hills Jellystone Park

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts are perfect for families. The Hocking Hills location is popular for great amenities like a swimming pool, lake with beach, jump pad, paddle boats, wagon rides, and more. All the while families can choose from deluxe cabins, RV sites, or traditional tent camping experiences. Along with a camp store and on-site amenities, there are off-site places to visit all around Hocking Hills. To jump into one of these campground experiences, book ahead online.

Hocking Hills State Park

Next to Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills State Park, this campground is very popular for access right into the park. With heated showers, flush toilets, and a fill station, there is plenty to rave about. Not to mention the playgrounds, horseshoe pit and other amenities. Campsites have full hook-up, electric sites with 20-50 amp service, paved pad, picnic tables, and pets allowed on all campsites. This is a perfect scenario for many families and individuals who want a relaxed atmosphere to come, hang out, and stay awhile in nature.

Camping Weather

No matter which tent camping site you choose, the weather will always be a factor as to how well the trip will go. It helps to know a bit about the weather in and around Hocking Hills to decipher what will be the best time for Hocking Hills tent camping:

  • Winter: get the proper cold weather camping gear from tents to clothing, camping bags and more. The landscape is sparkling and beautiful and plenty of winter festivals, including a Jan winter hike, happen in the area. Temps range in they 20s to 40s so bundle up
  • Spring: often a favorite shoulder season, from late March to early June, visitors get sunny days and beautiful, cool nights to enjoy Ohio weather in Hocking Hills. Camping is fun with hikes and festivals gearing up for visitors and blooming flowers and nature all around. Wear comfortable shirts and long pants or jeans and bundle up at night
  • Summer: one of the best, thriving, seasons for Hocking Hills tent camping under the stars. Check out Lake Logan, enjoy a campfire at night, and experience temps from 50 to 80s with cooler evening temps after a warm day
  • Fall: a great time to explore Hocking Hills campsites. Attend harvest festivals and farmers markets while exploring cool nights and warm days to round out a cozy camping experience. Bring light jackets and sweaters

Primitive Camping

Most popular sites for primitive camping are found at Riverside Campground. Check out the space at the sites, picnic tables and view of the Hocking River. Swimming may be possible in a few places. Nearly 80 sites exist at Riverside Campground. Most are a short distance from showers and toilets. Porta Johns are available on site. Close to other amenities, there is no charge for shelter houses and grills.Camp out in the wilds of Hocking Hills and enjoy rustic, quiet, natural surroundings.

Don’t forget to check out equestrian camping at Equestrian Ridge, one of a few places in Hocking hills to camp with your horse in tow. Primitive walk-in sites or camping trailers available. Enjoy secluded wooded areas, trails, and space to shower at the horse barn.

Resources

The Hocking Hills area is a place to come and get away for a while. When looking at campsites, think about the local visitor’s center, tourist places and attractions nearby that can offer something outside of camping. For support, check out the visitor center and area businesses who can help with supplies or questions and are located very close to campsites.

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