The best camping near Shawnee State Forest

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

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

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Top-rated campgrounds near Shawnee State Forest

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Fruitdale Farm

9 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Bainbridge, OH
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. Farm fresh eggs and fresh produce are available for purchase during the growing season and firewood is available all year round. There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved. 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. A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN ONLY. POINTS OF INTEREST in the area:   The HIGHLANDS NATURE SANCTUARY (7 miles away), previously called "7 Caves"  is highly recommended for some beautiful hiking.  There is a small museum (The Appalachian Forest Museum) at the main trailhead by the parking area... the folks there can direct you to a couple of other great trails nearby if you're interested in further hiking.  NOTE: Most of the trails within the sanctuary are not open to dogs, however, there are a couple of dog-friendly trails (inquire at the museum).   Museum is closed for the winter (Nov-March). **Recommended trails: Valley of the Ancients (1/2mile, start at museum) and the Barrett's Rim Trail (2.5 mile loop) and the Kamelands Trail, which are both accessible during the pandemic.   AMISH BAKERY (Country Crust Bakery) & MARKET (JRs General Store)* on 41 South in Bainbridge (15-20min away): The bakery is a great lunch stop for a fresh, soft Pretzel Bun sandwich (delicious) and to load up on fresh baked goods (the apple fritter is my fave!). The market, which is almost right across from the bakery, is also worth checking out... delicious deli sandwiches and great deals on spices, cheeses, pickles, jams, bulk foods, produce, etc. Watch out for horse & buggy traffic... and bicycles! *The Amish accept cash or check only and are closed on Sunday. In the teeny town of BAINBRIDGE (10-15min away): There are some nice antique/primitive shops around; in particular, Ancient Valley Mercantile has a nice selection of antiques as well as local art, gifts, gourmet coffees, local honey, etc. There's a wonderful little cafe (634 Coffee + Cafe, inside the historic Paxton Theater) that offers coffee drinks, pastries, soups and sandwiches. Stop into Pap's Hilltop Honey and Distillery, where you can purchase and sample a variety of moonshine flavors and cocktails. The Paxton Restaurant has good home cooked meals and a variety of pies and cheesecakes for dessert. Or grab an ice cream at the Dairy Queen before strolling the primitive shops.  PAINT CREEK LAKE STATE PARK: (2 miles away) There are dog-friendly hiking trails (the harmony trail and little pond trail are personal favorites), mountain bike trails, a 21-hole disc golf course, boat ramp (if you have kayaks, you can paddle around on the lake... this spot is excellent at sunset), and a camp store that has ice and hand-dipped ice cream. There is also a BEACH, which is good for picnicking and swimming, located at the southern entrance, off of SR 50. GREENFIELD: This town is closer (5 miles) and larger than Bainbridge and good for getting supplies. There are some restaurants, bars and supermarkets (Community Markets, at the further end of town, is recommended over the Save-a-Lot), El Canon (Mexican) would be my restaurant of choice if you decide to eat out.  Catch 22 Sports Bar has good burgers and there are plenty of pizza options for dine in or take-out. COVERED BRIDGE:  There is a sweet little covered bridge that you can still drive across in the tiny town of South Salem, just a 5 minute drive away.  To get there from here, take 41 North and then take a right onto Lower Twin Rd and drive a few miles and you will come to the bridge.  SERPENT MOUND (about 30 miles away, Peebles, OH) is an internationally known National Historic Landmark built by the ancient American Indian cultures of Ohio. It is an effigy mound representing a snake with a curled tail.  Nearby are three burial mounds—two created by the Adena culture (800 B.C.–A.D. 100), and one by the Fort Ancient culture (A.D. 1000–1650).  A must see! CHILLICOTHE (Ohio's first capital):  (30 minutes away) The historic downtown boasts charming architecture and is perfect for exploring on foot.  Several local shops, restaurants, coffee shops, breweries and bars.  A lovely city park with a small lake is host to a year-round population of ducks, geese and swans.  There is also a disc golf course and skate park in the city park.  There is frequent live music, gourmet cocktails and a wide variety of craft beer at Steiner's Speakeasy (an Americana-style bourbon bar of America).   GREAT SEAL STATE PARK (about 35 miles away in Chillicothe):  If you are into mountain biking, you will find some of the best trails in the state here (start at the Lick Run parking area).  There is also a great disc golf course here along with a picnic shelter and a playground for the kids.   FORT HILL EARTHWORKS & NATURE PRESERVE:  (30 minutes away) This preserve encompasses 1300 acres of mature woodlands and 11 miles of some of the best hiking trails in the state.  Part of the Old Growth Forest Network, there are remnants of the temperate deciduous forests that once covered all of the eastern United States.  For archaeology enthusiasts, there is a stone and earthen wall hilltop enclosure, as well as a smaller circular earthwork (both of which can be difficult to discern).
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$30
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The Viking Longhall

10 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Peebles, OH
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.
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95%
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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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$74
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Home Afarm

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Seaman, OH
Our little hobby farm was procured in December 2021. While we're just getting started our new home, we hope you'll enjoy sharing the orchard, meadows, forest, and swimming pond with us. "Roads go ever ever on, under cloud and under star. Yet feet that wandering have gone turn at last to home afar." Learn more about this land: Come relax atop the Appalachian foothills of southern Ohio. Enveloped in the heart of Tranquility Wilderness Area, our 11 acres has 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 ample flat for tents and room to play. Trails through the woods are being worked on, and facilities expanded as the seasons pass. Mellow nature’s soundtrack of birds, crickets, and frogs and enjoy an incredibly clear view of the night sky. Hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, hunting, swimming, and more are available at several state parks and historical sites like within 10-30 minutes of the farm. Amish country is likewise near at hand with several bakeries, markets, furniture shops, and greenhouses. Our primitive sites are spaced for privacy, with a gravel parking area near the cottage and additional field parking is available near the road on the opposite site of the main house. While most sites are walk-in only, the upper field sites may be able to be parked near and the Lower Meadow, Boneyard, and Oak Grove may be able to be driven to, as weather and site conditions permit.
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$19.20
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Bear Pond

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · West Union, OH
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😎) . Nice private spot accommodates Tent Camping, Car camping, or even if your taking an Overland Trip. Bearpond 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.
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$36
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Cozy mountain log cabin

1 site · Lodging25 acres · Richmond Dale, OH
NOW OPEN !!! Nestled deep in the mountains is this cozy real log cabin. Perfect for romantic getaways, family gatherings, it’s just a great place to unwind and get away from it all relaxing in your private hot tub surrounded by the sounds of nature with all the amenities of home. It’s located on a hill side overlooking the mountain. It’s secluded and very peaceful. This cabin is located directly on land you are allowed to ride your atvs. If you do not own, your own Atv and your you’re looking to add an adventure to your stay. We recommend renting one of our golf carts to explore the backcountry mountain roads with it is the best way to get out and sightsee and explore the area during your stay , we do offer these adventures separately to anyone looking to take a ride not just our guest. you could bring your own atv and pay a $30 daily riding fee , ride as much as you want. Message us to schedule a ride. we look forward to providing you with an amazing stay soon
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$116
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98%
(28)

Ohio River Private Paradise

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Stout, OH
Enjoy our private paradise with over 800 feet of riverfront on 17 acres along the banks of the beautiful Ohio River. We have a great landing for fishing, swimming, or kayaking. The sunsets are fantastic and the night sky incredible! Behold the barges passing by on the river as you unwind and relax in the peacefulness of nature! This is a primitive camp with three sites available for you to consider. Some things to know: We will provide a key code close to your arrival time so you can enter the gate by the road. If you are coming by river, we will put a flag on our landing. You can drive your vehicle right down to the sites. The farm is flat and easily navigated as long as it is dry. There will be a 5 gallon cooler of potable water for you to use. More water is available if we are at the property. We have 2 outhouses located on either end of the property. Firewood is plentiful by the river. We have some wood under a black tarp by the pavilion fire pit available for an additional fee. We have one neighbor who can make some noise with ORVs especially on weekends. Activities in the area include: 4 nature preserves The Conservancy properties Adams Lake State Park Lynx Prairie Serpent Mound Cedar Falls Moondoggie Livery Shawnee State Park Shawnee State Forest with over 60,000 acres and 8.000 acres of wilderness. Horse and ATV trails The Buckeye Trail The Ohio River Way Lewis and Clark Trail
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$42
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(72)

Possum Ridge Ranch

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents375 acres · West Liberty, KY
Our remote 375 acres part farm and part natural woodland nestled up to Daniel Boone Forest is ideal for hikers and nature lovers. There are several hiking trails onsite and plenty of woods to explore. ATVs or side by sides are welcome to be used on the main gravel roads and some designated areas of our property. There is plenty of wildlife around but no hunting is allowed. Our designated tent sites do have firepits and picnic tables. Our trek in sites do not have those options. Pets are welcome for $10 per pet/per booking and they do need to be leashed/under control at all times. This is an extra so please be sure to add that if you plan to bring your pet. Please pick up after them. We are a short driving distance from West Liberty, Cave Run Lake, Grayson Lake, Carter Caves, Morehead, Natural Bridge and Red River Gorge. We are approximately 20 minutes from the nearest store so you'll want to come prepared. We are located in West Liberty (Morgan County). There is a centrally located bathhouse with toilet, shower and sink and a hose for potable water. We have firewood for sale for $15 per bundle and is an extra option when booking(use what you need during your stay and it is located at the tent sites), you can bring your own and you are welcome to gather from the surrounding area but please do not cut down any living trees/limbs.
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$18
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The best camping near Shawnee State Forest 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.

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