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The best camping in Shawnee State Forest, OH

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100% (1)

Discover Shawnee State Forest's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near Shawnee State Forest

  • Myhio Haven Horse Farm
  • Myhio Haven Horse Farm
  • Myhio Haven Horse Farm

Myhio Haven Horse Farm

99%
(86)
5.5mi from Shawnee State Forest · 4 sites · Tents
Established in 1983 on a 60-acre plot of land right in the Shawnee State Forest. The property is beautiful with flat land, fields, and at the back are the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains. We put a horse farm on the land in 2000. The horses here are my family and I want to expand and offer more opportunities on the land. That's when I came across Hipcamp! I'm excited to share a piece of my heaven that I'm fortunate enough to call home.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
  • Sandy Springs Campground
  • Sandy Springs Campground
  • Sandy Springs Campground

Sandy Springs Campground

100%
(29)
9mi from Shawnee State Forest · 5 sites · RVs
Nestled between the Ohio River, Shawnee National Forest and river bluffs.  This campground is one of Adams county's best kept secrets.  We just purchased this property ourselves in November of 2018 and fell in love from the moment we placed our feet here.  Enjoy the views and simply watch the river go by.  
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$65
 / night
  • Waterfront on The Edge
  • Waterfront on The Edge
  • Waterfront on The Edge

Waterfront on The Edge

99%
(100)
13mi from Shawnee State Forest · 4 sites · Tents
Each campsite is along the waters of Ohio Brush Creek. This sacred waterway is also home to the Serpent Mound. Ohio Brush Creek is The Edge of Ohios Appalachia! The is much to be discovered in an area of glacial boundaries and ancient earthworks with 31 state and private nature preserves for hiking. And great paddling adventures on OBC and The Ohio River at The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Wifi is available but very weak to non existent signal as you are in rural Appalachia.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
  • Bear Pond
  • Bear Pond
  • Bear Pond

Bear Pond

98%
(44)
17mi from Shawnee State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Serene, Rolling Hills, Fresh air. Hiking Buzzards Roost, Canoe/Kayaking @ MoonDoggie LIVERee, visiting Family Traditions Animal Zoo, Miller’s Amish Furniture and Bakery, Shawnee National Forest, Adams State Lake, Serpent Mound, Tranquility Wild Life Shooting Range, or even just stargazing. Your away from everything but close to what ever you want. Bigfoot Country (Sasquatch Hunting is allowed, however like fishing, they are catch and release only😎) . https://www.cincymagazine.com/3d-flip-book/adams-county-2024/ Nice private spot accommodates Tent Camping, Car camping, or even if your taking an Overland Trip. Bear Pond will accommodate small RVs and Travel trailers. Nola's Cabin is a New availability as an Extra. Nola's Cabin is a Cozy small quiet cabin situated at the end of the gravel driveway under the trees. Overlooks the small valley down into the hill across the creek. Nice cozy place out of the elements. Water and Electric is available on site, with only Electric in Nolas Cabin. Nolas Cabin accommodates 4 people nicely. Twin (1) over full bunk (2) with Trundle (1). 6 inch Memory foam pads with liners are present on beds. Get a good nights rest while on your getaway, and still enjoy your outdoor cooking, fishing and star gazing. During inclement weather, a single serve K cup style coffee maker and Microwave are available to start your morning off. Bear Pond does have garbage bags upon request. But we ask you carry your refuse out with you due to the wildlife. Bear Pond is Furry Family Friendly. Just be mindful of possible wildlife if your Furry family members is off leash. The AC/Heat is supplied by a portable heat pump. So it could take an hour or so to cool or warm Nolas Cabin depending on the Inside ambient temperatures.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
  • The Viking Longhall
  • The Viking Longhall
  • The Viking Longhall

The Viking Longhall

100%
(542)
19mi from Shawnee State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
The Viking longhall has been 9 years in the making by a group of semi serious Viking enthusiasts: the result is a 60 foot long building that has 18, 8,x4' sleeping berths. Set apart from the main open area it also boasts 2 meeting rooms and a kitchen. The campsite is a very peaceful place. Some go as far as to say a healing place! We are proud of what we have achieved and now want people to come out and enjoy it also. The field is close enough to the Appalachian highway (state route 32) for convenience, but far enough not to be bothered by it. The area is steeped in Native American culture. In fact, the world famous Serpent Mound is but 8 miles away, with many other Adena culture sites within easy driving distance. It's also in the heart of the Amish community. The area is known for its natural beauty with many hiking trails and canoeing opportunities. The area is awash in beauty and history from the ancient mound culture to the amish culture. The area has many hiking trails some of which are part of the buckeye trail and range in length from an easy 1 mile loop to rugged hikes of many miles. Come out and share the land that we have loved for the last 30 years PLEASE NOTE….WE WILL NO LONGER BE SUPPLYING BEDDING OR TOWELS.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$44
 / night
  • Tranquility Spring Campground
  • Redbud and Dogwood trees in Spring
  • Tranquility Spring Campground

Tranquility Spring Campground

98%
(125)
21mi from Shawnee State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Campground is located on a plateau along county highway CR-100 between Peebles and Seaman. A natural artesian spring located just below the campsites. Several hiking trails wind DOWN wooded hillside of 69 acre property to meadow and small creek that snakes its way through southern boundary. Relax at the campfire after strolling my private hiking trails. Visit nearby Serpent Mound home of the world's largest surviving Native American effigy mound. Visit Millers Bakery and Furniture at nearby Wheat Ridge Amish community. Walk across county road CR-100 to hunt or explore the public 4,254 acres on Tranquility Wildlife Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night
  • Home Afarm Co-op
  • The ponds blue color comes from pond dye, which helps prevent algae and keep the water fresh and ready for swimming
  • Home Afarm Co-op

Home Afarm Co-op

96%
(84)
24mi from Shawnee State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come relax atop the Appalachian foothills of southern Ohio. Enveloped in the heart of the Tranquility Wilderness Area, our 11-acre property features a mix of native pawpaw, peach, pear, and persimmon trees, deciduous forest, cedar woods, wild meadows, a small swimming pond, and a large accessible field for tents and space to play. Trails through the woods are being developed, and facilities expand gradually with the seasons. Enjoy the mellow soundtrack of birds, crickets, and frogs, along with incredibly clear night skies ideal for stargazing. Nearby, visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, foraging, fishing, hunting, and swimming on site and at several state parks and historic sites within 10–30 minutes of the farm. Amish country is close, with bakeries, markets, furniture shops, and greenhouses. Our primitive campsites are spaced for privacy. A gravel parking area is available near the Cottage, with additional grass parking in the upper field. Sites may be walk-in only depending on weather and ground conditions. We hope you'll enjoy sharing the orchard, meadows, forest, and pond with us. Home Afarm is a rustic, eco-conscious retreat — perfect for quiet reflection, nature immersion, and small gatherings under the stars. "Roads go ever ever on, under cloud and under star. Yet feet that wandering have gone turn at last to home afar(m)."
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
  • Family Farm Experience
  • Family Farm Experience
  • Family Farm Experience

Family Farm Experience

98%
(26)
27mi from Shawnee State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:What an awesome place for kids to experience farm life. Accessible on site is a shelter house, playground, farm animals for kids to see, feed or pet, and the privacy of a small working cattle farm to enjoy. We have a gas and wood pellet smoker, tv and DVD player, fridge and freezer, and tables under roof. There is a small game room in case of implement weather. Also have an above ground pool available in season. So much to do! Also local shopping in historic Maysville and Washington
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
  • Backwoods Hideaway
  • Backwoods Hideaway
  • Backwoods Hideaway

Backwoods Hideaway

100%
(29)
30mi from Shawnee State Forest · 1 site · Lodging
This is a camping cabin, in the middle of the Daniel Boone National Forest. We are about 85 acres, surrounded by hundreds of acres of national Forest. We are located about 2 minutes from the Sheltowee Trail, and approximately 30 minutes away from Cave Run Lake, and about 30 minutes from Carter Caves State Park. This is a cabin with comfort. You can camp and also enjoy nature. The cabin is off grid, but has a generator for heat and Air conditioning. The outside toilet is close to the cabin and has a "Wash up" area. There is also an outdoor shower on the property just a short walk away, that features hot water. Everything you need to enjoy camping and hiking with a bit of comfort!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$60
 / night
  • Rolling Meadow Outpost
  • Rolling Meadow Outpost
  • Rolling Meadow Outpost

Rolling Meadow Outpost

100%
(21)
34mi from Shawnee State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Rolling Meadow Farm is an Ohio Century farm that has been in our family for well over 100 years. The newest generation seeks to integrate ecological management so as to leave the farm better than when their tenure began three years ago. Sharing the scenic property with others while also transitioning to organic hemp cultivation are the priority goals for the next twelve months. Currently, Homestead site and two dispersed camp sites are available for Fall 2024. Campers are welcome to explore the entire property, just please be gentle walking through the crops. Expect amazing night skies when it’s clear, and peace and quiet thanks to the dead end lane.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night
  • Ohio Red Barn
  • Ohio Red Barn
  • Ohio Red Barn

Ohio Red Barn

99%
(39)
39mi from Shawnee State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:Nestled in the Paint Creek recreational area, the 4.5 acre lot is home to a 100+ year old barn and acres of woods. The Rattle Snake Creek boat ramp is only 1 mile from the property. Perfect for fishing (either by boat or shore) and recreational water sports. Likewise, the property is just minutes from public hunting. As a bonus, Rocky Fork lake is only a quick 15 minute drive. The property is in the middle of an Amish/Mennonite community, so you'll be able get your fresh produce and other delights as well.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
  • The organic vegetable garden is near the front of the property, between the road and the pond, and right beside site 1.
  • The screened gazebo kitchen is a lovely place to prepare a meal and is stocked with just about everything you'd need.
  • The organic vegetable garden is near the front of the property, between the road and the pond, and right beside site 1.

Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1190)
40mi from Shawnee State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Fruitdale Farm
J
Jacob
3 days ago
Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm
Great space and a great setting. Loved our time at sugar shack.
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Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!
Avatar
Mary
2 weeks ago
With pets
Weekend Trip to Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!
The treehouse was beautiful and had everything we needed to be comfortable and warm in December! My kids loved the slide and playground out back!!
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The Viking Longhall
E
Emily
2 weeks ago
Group trip
Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall
Outstanding experience as always! We love this space and David is so accommodating
See more
Cozy mountain log cabin
K
Katie
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Cozy mountain log cabin
Beautiful cabin, great host
See more
The Viking Longhall
B
Brittany
December 2025
Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall
Amazingly unique!! 10/10 recommend! Will definitely be returning in early fall.
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Fruitdale Farm
L
Laura
December 2025
4 nights at Fruitdale Farm
We stayed for 5 days in the sugar shack cabin and it was the coziest experience ever!! Aimee is such a great host and made sure we had every we needed. The wood stove keeps the cabin really warm even in the middle of a snowy night, we accidentally made it too warm one night and went on a night hike in the snow, the most beautiful experience ever. Oh and if you see a little orange cat, that’s Aimee’s cat Tangie, he likes to say hi to the campers!
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Backwoods Hideaway
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Lauren
December 2025
With pets
1 night at Backwoods Hideaway
Our second stay! Once during Fall and this time Winter. We hope to visit again in all the seasons because each season has something unique to offer in these beautiful hills. Even in 30 degree weather of December, we arrived to a toasty warm cabin all lit up for us. Once we got settled for bed, we turned off the generator and stayed warm all night. (We did add our sleeping bag on top of the mattress just in case.) There's always firewood to enjoy an outdoor fire, coffee, and games/coloring for kids, lots of woods and creek to explore, and it's so peaceful and private! Cabin and outhouse are super clean! I highly recommend even in the Winter. Tip: if you stay when it's freezing, the shower may not be on- just ask, and I would bring the outdoor hand washing water inside the cabin at night so it's not freezing cold the next morning. We take a portable power bank with us to charge phones so that we don't have to turn on the generator for that. We don't have phone service there, but you don't need it. Unplug! There's wifi you may be able to connect to closer to his driveway or he's the type of host you could knock if you're having a real emergency. There's a restaurant gas station very close by with food and Wifi. The hosts are incredibly kind, fun, friendly people, generous also because with their price, really don't make money on this to justify the work involved. They just like sharing their slice of heaven as a gift! Hope you enjoy it as much as we do and take good care of it!
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Fruitdale Farm
K
Kirby
November 2025
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. 😎
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The Viking Longhall
M
Maura
November 2025
Group trip
Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall
We had such a wonderful experience and have every intention of going back.
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The Viking Longhall
S
Shohei
November 2025
With kids
2 nights at The Viking Longhall
We had an amazing time staying at David's hand-built yurt! David is a wonderful host, making sure we had what we needed and providing helpful info while giving us our space. There's plenty to do, from axe throwing to board games to great hiking trails nearby.
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Site 4 is the farthest from the road and is "open-air" so you can see the night's sky
J
Jeremy
November 2025
Tent
1 night at Fruitdale Farm
This is my second time camping at Aimee's place. I came during the off season and there was some work being done on the trail leading to my booked site. She happily gave me the option of site #2 and I liked the different experience it offered. This site #2 was closer to the neighboring fields and roads while still feeling secluded with not so much road noise that it made the experience poor. Since the property is in the country you might hear people riding quads which was the case for a short time that evening. I even got several visits from her cat during my stay to keep me company. I will definitely be back to see the improvements she is adding to the property!
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The Viking Longhall
C
Carl
November 2025
Group trip
Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall
This is my 5th time staying at the campground, everything about it is incredible! David is a fantastic host that has created a truly one of a kind and magical place for friends to get together and make memories.
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Possum Ridge Ranch
M
Marie
November 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch
Liz is simply fantastic! The bath houses are very clean and well stocked. Staying here is like staying at a 5 star hotel, only it’s outside where we campers want to be. It’s an absolute must.
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Ohio Red Barn
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Lisa
November 2025
24 ft Class B
Weekend Trip to Ohio Red Barn
A sweet little spot conveniently located on Route 753 close to lots of outdoor recreation parks, trails, lakes and creeks.
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Home Afarm Co-op
S
Samantha
November 2025
1 night at Home Afarm Co-op
This cabin was great! True dark sky area was amazing. We had a wonderful view of the northern lights. Highly suggest the extra $20 for the hot tub. Everything was clean and cozy!
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Rolling Meadow Outpost
J
Jeremy
November 2025
Tent
1 night at Rolling Meadow Outpost
This was a great spot to camp! The views of the night sky were awesome and surroundings were peaceful and snow covered. The firewood was priced well and good sized which helped during the cold. The communication and directions were clear, and the price for being as close to the city while still being an escape is a bargain. I will definitely be camping here again in the future!
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Inside cabin
K
Kaitlynn
November 2025
With pets
3 nights at Backwoods Hideaway
Great place! So peaceful and quiet. The host provided everything we could need, which was so helpful! I loved that my dog was able to go with us, and he was able to be off-leash! Will be coming back in the future!
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Home Afarm Co-op
I
Isaac
November 2025
Tent
2 nights at Home Afarm Co-op
Great place with great vibes. It was a nice valley space that kept us away from winds that day, and a nice fire spot to warm up after a rainy day.
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Evening lighting at Site #3
P
Phylip
November 2025
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.
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The Viking Longhall
J
Jody
November 2025
2 nights at The Viking Longhall
We had an incredible time at the yurt! David was an amazing host: he greeted us and shared all kinds of local information and tips on hikes and activities and brought us coffee in the mornings. He has built a magical place and put so much passion, care and attention into everything there. The nature and activities on the property can fill days. We loved the yurt Viking decor, propane fire in the middle and the incredible layers of soft bedding! We will be coming back for sure.
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The best camping in Shawnee State Forest, OH guide

Overview

About

Lovingly nicknamed "The Little Smokies of Ohio," Shawnee State Forest boasts 60,000 acres of beautiful land where you can live out all your outdoors-y fantasies in the flesh. Arrive in fall time for a paintbrush smattering of leaf colors throughout the park, or bring your best buds in summer for a shady getaway. Explore 60 miles of trails by foot or by horseback, where the variety of wildlife and plants merit forestry research from academics and amateur iPhone photographs from the rest of us. With 60 miles of backpacking trails, we bet you could even trek some of it in your birthday suit without having to run into a singled clothed soul. This is freedom at its finest, friends.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Shawnee State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the forest is alive with color. Summer offers lush greenery but can be quite warm, while winter brings a quiet, frosty beauty, though some amenities may be limited. Avoid holiday weekends if you prefer a more peaceful experience, as these tend to be the busiest times.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure you pack appropriately for the conditions.
  • Be aware of any trail closures or advisories by visiting the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.
  • Ensure you have a valid parking permit if required and display it visibly in your vehicle.
  • Remember to pack out all your trash and leave no trace to preserve the forest's natural beauty.
  • Cell service may be spotty in remote areas, so download maps and important information ahead of time.

100%
1 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· October 2017
Bear Lake Horse Camp
There is no electrice and has only out house . site has city water and is horse friendly and campers as well
Avatar
Janine H.
8 years on Hipcamp

Top state forests near Shawnee State Forest

Tar Hollow State Forest
Cabwaylingo State Forest
Kanawha State Forest
Zaleski State Forest
Morgan Monroe State Forest
Coopers Rock State Forest
Fernwood State Forest
Hidden Springs State Forest

Top parks near Shawnee State Forest

Wayne National Forest
Deam Lake State Recreation Area
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
Whitewater State Park IN
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
Bledsoe Creek Camping State Park
Cumberland Mountain State Park
Edgar Evins State Park

Top points of interest near Shawnee State Forest

Crystal Beach
Ohio Caverns
Old Man's Cave
Bald River Falls
Bass Lake
Bell Mountain
Brasstown Falls
Greeter Falls

Top cities near Shawnee State Forest

Cincinnati
Summersville
Louisville
Frankfort
Pigeon Forge
Gatlinburg
Nashville
Townsend

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