Hocking Hills Primitive Hike-In Campsites

Overview

If you want the quiet side of Hocking Hills without leaving the park, the primitive Hike‑In Campsites are the move. It’s tent‑only, tucked in the woods, and you carry everything from a parking area to your site, which keeps things peaceful and feels pleasantly backcountry.

What You’ll Find

• No road access to the sites; you walk your gear in (about up to 0.5 mile from the parking area).
• Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Many are set off small spur paths, so you’re not camped right on the main trail.
• Pit latrines are spaced around the area; a water spigot sits at the hike‑in parking lot during the main season.
• Pets are allowed on all hike‑in sites (leashed).

Seasonality, Water, and Facilities

From November 1 to April 1, park water is limited to Shower House 1 in the main campground, so plan to haul or treat water if the parking‑area spigot is shut off for winter. Fires belong in the provided rings only. Gathering firewood is prohibited—bring your own or buy locally. A campground store typically operates nearby (common hours noted as Sun–Thu 9am–6pm, Fri–Sat 9am–7pm; hours can change).

Current Campground Projects (Fall/Winter 2025)

The drive‑in campground loops are undergoing electrical upgrades with rolling closures (Sites 94–172 and Shower Houses 2–3 closed starting September 1, 2025; Sites 1–23, 71–73, 76–80, and the Sherman Cabins closed starting October 1, 2025; affected areas slated to reopen June 1, 2026). The hike‑in area isn’t named in that closure list, but always confirm availability when you book.

Terrain, Noise, and Wildlife

Expect hard, rocky soil in places—bring a good ground pad and scope out the flattest spot before pitching. The pit toilets can be smelly in muggy weather. Overall it’s quieter than the main loops, though choosing a site deeper in the area helps if you’re sensitive to the occasional late‑night commotion near gates or parking. Wildlife is more noticeable here: raccoons will sniff out sloppy food storage, and it’s not unusual to hear coyotes calling at night.

Gear & Food Tips

Pack like a backpacker. A folding wagon helps for longer hauls. In buggy months, a small screen shelter is handy for cooking and lounging. Use a bear‑resistant canister or odor‑proof bags to keep critters off your food, and never leave attractants in camp.

Little Extras

The hike‑in parking lot also doubles as a trailhead for the mountain bike trail, and some fire rings have grill tops noted by campers—nice for simple camp cooking.

Best Time to Visit

For the easiest logistics, aim for the main season (roughly April–October) when the parking‑lot spigot is typically on. Arrive well before dark so you can make multiple hauls without bothering neighbors. In the off‑peak window (November 1–April 1), plan for colder nights and no nearby spigot, but you’ll trade that for fewer people and crisp, quiet woods.

Booking Basics

Reservations are required and can be made up to 6 months in advance online or by phone (Ohio State Parks system). Pets are allowed on all sites.