Oak Hill Campground, Pedro, OH

For Ohioans seeking a tranquil and immersive outdoor experience, Oak Hill Campground, nestled within the beautiful Wayne National Forest near Pedro, offers an ideal retreat. This highly regarded campground provides a perfect blend of modern conveniences and the serene beauty of southeastern Ohio's natural landscapes, making it a favorite for those looking to reconnect with nature.

Oak Hill Campground is part of the larger Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, a jewel within the Ironton Ranger District of Wayne National Forest. This means campers not only get a peaceful place to stay but also immediate access to a wide array of recreational opportunities. As one happy camper shared, "This is one of the most beautiful places I've camped and there have been a lot. Gorgeous wooded lots, clean restrooms and showers as well. We had a lake view from our. We will definitely be going back!" This enthusiastic review highlights the stunning natural setting and the high standard of facilities, promising a memorable visit.

The campground has seen recent renovations and upgrades, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. Another reviewer noted the "relatively new infrastructure" and praised the "large established trees that give good shade, but far enough apart so grass grows. Most of the camping spots are 'level enough' and reasonably well spaced and large. Some of the spots are awkwardly set up with picnic tables and fire pits on the back side of the camper, but the large size of the spots makes it feel ok. the restrooms are clean and functional." This attention to detail in site design and maintenance, coupled with clean and functional facilities, speaks to the dedication to providing a top-tier camping experience. For Ohio locals, Oak Hill Campground represents a chance to escape the everyday hustle and immerse themselves in a natural setting that feels both pristine and welcoming, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the state's diverse outdoor offerings.

Location and Accessibility

Oak Hill Campground is strategically located at 916 Co Rd 29, Pedro, OH 45659, USA. This address places it firmly within the expansive Wayne National Forest, specifically as one of the two primary camping areas within the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area. Pedro, Ohio, is a small community in Lawrence County, situated in the southeastern part of the state, an area renowned for its rugged hills, dense forests, and scenic beauty.

For local users across Ohio, particularly those in the southern and central regions, Oak Hill Campground is quite accessible. It’s approximately 6.5 miles north of Ironton, Ohio, and easily reached by turning off State Route 93 onto County Road 29 (Lake Vesuvius Road). From major Ohio cities, while it requires a bit of a drive, the journey is rewarding. For example, it’s about a 2-hour drive from Columbus, making it a feasible weekend getaway. From Cincinnati, the drive is typically around 2.5 to 3 hours. The scenic drive through the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio adds to the anticipation of a peaceful escape. The campground is designed with easy access in mind, accommodating RVs and trailers of various sizes, with paved sites that simplify parking.

Its direct connection to Lake Vesuvius, a 143-acre lake, means that campers are mere moments away from popular water activities. The campground's setting within a mixed hardwood-pine forest provides natural shade and a feeling of seclusion, despite its well-maintained infrastructure. The ability to access multiple hiking trails directly from the campground further enhances its accessibility to a wealth of outdoor adventures, cementing its status as a convenient and appealing destination for Ohio locals.

Services Offered

Campsites with Electric Hookups: Oak Hill Campground features 27 campsites, all equipped with electric hookups (typically 20, 30, and 50 amp services). This provides modern convenience for RVs and allows for comfortable tent camping.
Water Hookups: Many sites also offer water hookups, further enhancing convenience for campers.
Modern Restrooms and Showers: The campground boasts recently renovated and clean flush toilets and hot showers, as praised by visitors, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic experience.
Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available at the campground entrance for RV and trailer campers, making waste disposal easy.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grilling attachment, perfect for outdoor meals and traditional campfires.
Reservable Sites: Half of the sites are reservable via Recreation.gov, allowing campers to plan their trips in advance. Reservations can be made up to 6 months prior to arrival. Unreserved sites within a 4-day window become first-come, first-served.
Group Campground: The Two Points Group Campground, suitable for up to 50 people with a picnic shelter, is available within the recreation area, with shower facilities accessible at Oak Hill Campground.
Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times, with owners responsible for cleanup.
Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at various stations throughout the campground.

Features / Highlights

Access to Lake Vesuvius: The campground's proximity to Lake Vesuvius, a 143-acre electric-motors-only lake, is a major highlight. This allows for peaceful boating (canoeing, kayaking), excellent fishing (bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill), and a designated swimming beach at Big Bend.
Extensive Hiking Trails: Over 40 miles of trails exist in the Lake Vesuvius area, with multiple trailheads accessible from or near Oak Hill Campground. A spur within the campground connects to the historic Rock House Trail, leading to a cave Native Americans once used.
Beautiful Wooded Lots: Campers consistently praise the "gorgeous wooded lots" and "large established trees that give good shade," providing a natural, secluded feel to the campsites.
Recently Renovated Infrastructure: The campground benefits from relatively new and upgraded facilities, including modern restrooms and showers, ensuring a higher level of comfort.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground is noted for its quiet environment, particularly due to the electric-motors-only policy on the lake, making it ideal for nature observation and relaxation.
Scenic Lake Views: Many campsites offer beautiful views of Lake Vesuvius, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Historic Vesuvius Furnace: Visitors can explore the historic Vesuvius iron furnace, located at the base of the lake's dam, offering a glimpse into Ohio's industrial past.
Wildlife Viewing: The mixed hardwood-pine forest and lakeside environment provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
Family-Friendly Environment: While not boasting a playground, the vast natural playground of the forest and lake, combined with clean facilities, makes it an excellent choice for families seeking outdoor adventure.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Wayne National Forest, Oak Hill Campground generally adheres to a standardized fee structure rather than offering frequent, dynamic promotional deals common in private campgrounds. However, there are inherent "special offers" or discounts available through federal pass programs that benefit many visitors, particularly those who qualify.

The standard camping fee for an electric site at Oak Hill Campground is $20 per night. This represents a consistent and reasonable rate for a site with water and electric hookups within a beautiful national forest setting.

Key "promotions" or value-added programs that apply to federal campgrounds like Oak Hill include:

Senior Pass and Access Pass: Holders of the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass (for U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older) and the Access Pass (for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities) receive a 50% discount on standard amenity fees, including camping. For Oak Hill Campground, this means a reduced rate of $12.50 per night for eligible pass holders. This is a significant ongoing discount for qualifying Ohio residents.
Group Camping Rate: The Two Points Group Campground is available for $35 per night, offering an economical option for larger groups of up to 50 people. While not a "discount," it's a cost-effective way for multiple families or organizations to camp together.
Recreation.gov Reservations: While not a discount, the ability to reserve sites up to 6 months in advance through Recreation.gov allows campers to secure their preferred spots, especially during peak seasons, ensuring their trip plans. This proactive planning can save time and potential disappointment.

To confirm the most current rates, learn about pass eligibility, or inquire about any specific seasonal information, it is highly recommended to visit the official Wayne National Forest website (specifically the Oak Hill Campground page on fs.usda.gov) or Recreation.gov. You can also contact the Ironton Ranger District directly using the contact information provided below.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries about Oak Hill Campground, or general information regarding the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area and Wayne National Forest, you can reach out through the following contact details:

Address: 916 Co Rd 29, Pedro, OH 45659, USA

Phone: (740) 534-6500 (This is the phone number for the Ironton Ranger District, which manages the campground.)

For making reservations, it is most efficient to use the official federal booking platform: Recreation.gov. You can search for "Oak Hill Campground" or "Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area" on their website.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For residents of Ohio, Oak Hill Campground in Pedro stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly appealing destination for a diverse range of outdoor pursuits. Its location within the stunning Wayne National Forest, coupled with its well-maintained facilities and abundant recreational opportunities, makes it an ideal local escape.

One of the primary reasons for its suitability for Ohioans is its commitment to providing a comfortable yet authentic camping experience. The "relatively new infrastructure," "clean restrooms and showers," and "large established trees that give good shade" all contribute to a pleasant stay, as confirmed by positive camper reviews. This ensures that locals can enjoy the tranquility of nature without sacrificing essential comforts.

Furthermore, the direct access to Lake Vesuvius, with its electric-motors-only policy, guarantees a peaceful environment for boating, canoeing, and fishing. This allows for a serene aquatic experience, free from the noise of larger motorboats, which is a significant draw for those seeking quiet contemplation or family-friendly water activities. The extensive network of over 40 miles of hiking trails, including historical paths like the Rock House Trail, offers endless exploration opportunities for hikers of all levels, right from their campsite.

The campground's forested setting provides abundant shade and a genuine feeling of being immersed in nature, making it a perfect antidote to urban life. Its accessibility from major Ohio cities within a reasonable driving distance solidifies its appeal as a convenient weekend getaway or a longer vacation spot. For those who value clean facilities, beautiful natural surroundings, and a wide array of outdoor activities in a peaceful setting, Oak Hill Campground truly is a gem within Ohio's public lands, offering a fantastic local option for creating lasting memories in the great outdoors.