Hidden Hollow Campground

For Ohio residents passionate about the outdoors, the search for an authentic and accessible camping experience often leads to the hidden gems within the state's expansive park and forest systems. Hidden Hollow Campground, nestled in the scenic Fernwood State Forest near Bloomingdale, Ohio, presents itself as one such unique opportunity. It's a destination that promises a close-to-nature encounter, offering a rustic charm that appeals to those who appreciate the simplicity of traditional camping.

Camping in Ohio offers a diverse range of experiences, from bustling RV parks to secluded primitive sites. Hidden Hollow Campground leans towards the latter, providing a tranquil backdrop for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. However, like any outdoor destination, it comes with its own set of characteristics that are important for prospective campers to understand. This article aims to provide a clear, factual, and engaging overview of Hidden Hollow Campground, highlighting its features and what you can expect as a local Ohio user.

We'll delve into its specific location in Bloomingdale, explore the services and unique features it offers, and address key considerations that have been noted by previous visitors. Our goal is to equip you with all the necessary information to determine if Hidden Hollow Campground is the right fit for your next Ohio outdoor adventure, ensuring you arrive prepared for a truly memorable experience in Fernwood State Forest.

Hidden Hollow Campground is located on an Unnamed Road, Bloomingdale, OH 43910, USA, within the expansive Fernwood State Forest. Bloomingdale is a small community situated in eastern Ohio, providing a rural and natural setting for the campground. Its location within a state forest is a significant draw, offering access to broader natural areas for various outdoor activities.

For Ohio residents, Hidden Hollow Campground is generally accessible, though its "Unnamed Road" address suggests it might be tucked away, requiring attention to signs as you approach Fernwood State Forest. Access is typically via paved roads leading into the campground area itself, making it navigable for most vehicles, including RVs, though some reviews suggest larger rigs might find some spots less ideal due to narrow sites or slight slopes. The campground is open year-round, which is a major advantage for those seeking off-season camping opportunities. Visitors should note that while cell service is generally reported to be good, the secluded nature means you are truly in a forest setting, away from urban conveniences. Being part of a state forest system, it is likely managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), ensuring a level of oversight and maintenance. This location provides a genuine escape into the Ohio wilderness, making it a compelling option for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without traveling excessively far from home.

Hidden Hollow Campground operates as a free, self-registration campsite within Fernwood State Forest. This means that while there's no fee to stay, campers are expected to follow a self-registration process. While it offers a rustic experience, it provides several fundamental services to ensure a functional camping trip:

• Free Camping: Hidden Hollow Campground is unique in that it offers free camping, a significant draw for budget-conscious Ohio campers. Campers must self-register by filling out a card at the comment box upon arrival.
• Designated Family Campsites: The campground features 22 family campsites, providing dedicated spaces for campers to set up.
• Paved Pads: Many sites include paved pads, offering a stable and relatively level surface for tents, RVs, or passenger vehicles.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, convenient for outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are available at most sites, allowing for safe campfires and outdoor cooking. Some fire rings may not have grill grates, so campers should be prepared.
• Vault/Pit Latrines: Restroom facilities consist of vault or pit toilets. Reviews indicate these vary in cleanliness and upkeep, but are generally stocked with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Users should manage expectations for these facilities.
• Non-Potable Water Access: A hand pump is available for non-potable water, suitable for washing but not for drinking. Campers must bring their own drinking water.
• Grey Water Pits/Designated Wastewater Areas: Spots are available for campers to dump grey water, which is important for maintaining cleanliness.
• Trash Cans: Receptacles are provided for trash disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.
• Law Enforcement Patrol: The area is patrolled by law enforcement officers who can familiarize visitors with camping regulations, adding a layer of security.

It is important to note that Hidden Hollow Campground does not offer electric hookups, private showers with hot water, or a potable water supply at the campsites. It's a more primitive experience designed for self-sufficient campers.

Hidden Hollow Campground, despite its rustic nature, offers several distinct features and highlights that shape the camping experience, as indicated by customer reviews and general information about Fernwood State Forest:

• Free Camping: This is a major highlight. The fact that camping is free for up to 14 days makes it an incredibly attractive option for Ohioans looking for an affordable outdoor getaway or longer stays. This fosters a unique community among campers who appreciate this amenity.
• Proximity to Rifle Range: A significant and frequently mentioned feature is the nearby open-air rifle range. Reviews confirm that gunshots can be heard, typically from 7 AM to 7 PM, and sometimes later. For shooting enthusiasts, this could be a highlight, as the range itself is also free to use for pistol, rifle, and trap shooting. For others, it's an important consideration regarding noise levels, especially during peak usage.
• Part of Fernwood State Forest: Being within a state forest means campers have access to a wider range of activities beyond the campground itself. This includes:
  • Hiking Trails: Several trails are available, including two short 0.5-mile trails near the campground (part of the Fernwood Forest Land Lab for environmental education) and a 3-mile loop near the forest headquarters.
  • Fishing: Many ponds stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish are scattered throughout the forest, requiring a valid Ohio fishing license.
  • Hunting: Permitted in most state forest areas (excluding the campground area, which is marked), with opportunities for white-tailed deer, turkey, and small game (requires a valid Ohio hunting license).
  • Scenic Vistas: The forest offers scenic overlooks along Township Road 181, providing beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Self-Registration System: The self-registration process offers flexibility and a sense of independence, aligning with a more rustic camping style.
• Year-Round Accessibility: The campground is open year-round, allowing for spring, fall, and even winter camping experiences.
• Paved Sites: While not all sites are perfectly level, the paved pads are a nice feature for a free campground, providing a stable surface for various camping setups.
• Cell Service: Reports indicate good cell service (Verizon and AT&T), which can be a comfort for those who need to stay connected or for emergencies.

The mixed reviews regarding the "homeless types" and the locked gate are also critical "features" in the sense that they reflect management practices or site conditions. While some reviews mention past issues with a locked gate or a presence of long-term residents, the ODNR website confirms it is free and self-registering, and recent reviews generally indicate open access and patrolled areas. It's crucial for campers to check current conditions or contact the forest office if concerns arise. The review mentioning a locked gate and "homeless types" suggests a period when management may have changed or the site faced specific challenges; however, the preponderance of recent information suggests it is generally open and managed by the State Forest authorities.

As Hidden Hollow Campground is a free, self-registration site managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) as part of Fernwood State Forest, it does not typically offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. The primary "offer" is the free camping itself, which is a significant benefit for any camper.

However, for Ohio locals, the value propositions extend beyond a discounted rate:

• Cost Savings: The absence of a nightly fee makes Hidden Hollow Campground an incredibly affordable option for extended stays (up to 14 days allowed), allowing campers to save money on accommodation and allocate more towards other aspects of their trip.
• Access to Free State Forest Activities: The "promotion" is inherently tied to the free access to Fernwood State Forest's resources, including its hiking trails, fishing ponds (with a valid license), and the nearby free shooting ranges.
• Year-Round Availability: The fact that it's open year-round, unlike many private campgrounds, offers continuous opportunities for Ohioans to enjoy the outdoors during all seasons without additional cost.

While you won't find coupon codes or seasonal discounts, the inherent value of free camping combined with access to a state forest's amenities is a continuous "special offer" for Ohio residents seeking a back-to-basics, budget-friendly outdoor experience. It's advisable to always check the official ODNR Fernwood State Forest website or contact the forest office for any operational updates or changes to rules, as free campsites can sometimes have specific regulations.

To plan your visit or inquire about Hidden Hollow Campground within Fernwood State Forest, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: Unnamed Rd, Bloomingdale, OH 43910, USA. Note: As it's within Fernwood State Forest, look for signs directing you to Hidden Hollow Campground once you enter the forest area.
• Phone: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry is the managing authority for Fernwood State Forest, which includes Hidden Hollow Campground. The general phone number for Fernwood State Forest is (740) 266-6021. This number is your best point of contact for inquiries regarding campground status, rules, or forest activities. While the provided mobile number (+1 877-247-8733) is listed, the ODNR contact for the state forest itself is the most reliable for campground-specific information.

Hidden Hollow Campground in Fernwood State Forest offers a compelling and unique camping opportunity for Ohio locals, particularly those who embrace a more rustic and self-sufficient outdoor experience. Its fundamental suitability lies in the fact that it is a free, self-registration campground, making it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly option for extended stays of up to 14 days. For Ohioans looking to immerse themselves in nature without incurring significant costs, this is a distinct advantage.

While the presence of a nearby rifle range and the rustic nature of the vault toilets are important considerations, they are also part of the authentic character of this state forest campground. For many, the sounds of the range are a minor trade-off for the cost-free camping and the extensive recreational opportunities available within Fernwood State Forest. These opportunities include miles of hiking trails, well-stocked ponds for fishing, and designated hunting areas (outside the campground), allowing for a diverse range of outdoor pursuits. The year-round accessibility further enhances its appeal, providing Ohioans with a consistent option for camping across all seasons.

Hidden Hollow Campground serves as a testament to Ohio's commitment to providing accessible outdoor recreation. It appeals to campers who value independence, appreciate basic amenities over luxury, and are keen to explore the natural beauty of their state forest system. For Ohio locals seeking a genuine, cost-effective, and adventure-filled escape into the wilderness, Hidden Hollow Campground provides a truly fitting and memorable destination.