A Memorable Camping Experience at Hocking Hills State Park

In May 2023, we embarked on a memorable camping adventure to Hocking Hills State Park. Over the course of four nights during the Memorial Day weekend, we set up our tents at the Hocking Hills State Park Campground. As with any campground, our stay had its highlights and drawbacks. In this post, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of our experience, helping you decide if this campground is the right choice for your next outdoor getaway.

Pros:

1. Affordability: We were pleasantly surprised to discover that our non-electric tent site came at a mere $29 per night, making it a very budget-friendly option for our trip.
2. Proximity to Hiking Trails: One of the most appealing aspects of this campground was its immediate access to the hiking trails in the Old Man’s Cave area. This convenience was a true blessing, especially during the bustling Memorial Day weekend. While we did have to drive to Ash Cave and Rock House, both were just a short 10-15 minute journey away.
3. Proximity to Logan (Nearest City): A mere 20-minute drive from the campground will take you to Logan, the nearest city. Here, you can find a Walmart for affordable restocking of essentials like ice and groceries. Logan also offers several breweries and a winery, providing a perfect escape from the campground when needed.
4. Amenities: The campground provided a plethora of amenities to keep us occupied. These included playgrounds for our toddler, a refreshing pool that had recently opened for the season, a fishing lake with a short hiking trail around it, and convenient laundry facilities – a welcome convenience for any camper.

Cons:

1. Proximity to Camp Store: Unfortunately, the camp store was located 3/4 of a mile down a very steep drive, making it impractical to walk to. Furthermore, its offerings were limited, primarily consisting of souvenirs and firewood. We strongly recommend bringing your own food and camping gear, or be prepared to make the drive to Walmart in Logan for your necessities.
2. Ease of Booking: When booking our campsite, we faced uncertainty regarding its size. As a result, we ended up with one of the smallest tent sites. While we managed to make it work, it’s advisable to call the campground and inquire about the site’s suitability if you have a large group or a sizable tent.
3. Bathroom Sizes: The bathroom facilities left much to be desired, given the number of campers. Each bathroom only featured three toilet stalls and three shower stalls, and there were merely three of these bathrooms for all 172 campsites. This could be a significant inconvenience during peak camping seasons.

Would We Stay Again? In conclusion, despite the drawbacks, there’s a strong likelihood that we would choose this campground again. As the saying goes, “location, location, location” – the convenience of access to hiking trails and nearby amenities outweighed the cons. However, if you’re seeking a campground with more extensive amenities, do note that there’s also a KOA Campground in the vicinity.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hocking Hills State Park offers a unique and memorable outdoor experience that’s worth exploring. Plan your visit wisely, considering our insights, and you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic camping adventure amidst nature’s beauty.