Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground

For Ohioans seeking a tranquil escape into the heart of nature, Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground offers a beautiful and inviting retreat. Tucked away amidst 604 acres of deep ravines and dense woodlands, this state park campground provides a serene setting where visitors can truly unwind and reconnect with the outdoors. Named for the historical extraction of pine tar from its abundant shortleaf and pitch pines, Tar Hollow provides a unique glimpse into Ohio's natural heritage, characterized by its stunning spring wildflowers and spectacular fall foliage.

Logan Hollow Campground is a family-friendly destination, offering a variety of campsites designed to accommodate different preferences, from RVs to tents. While it provides essential amenities, it maintains a rustic charm that many Ohio campers appreciate. As one visitor noted, "A beautiful place! Main areas were kept very well." The campground's atmosphere is one of spaciousness and natural beauty, ensuring a peaceful stay. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in hiking, fishing, and swimming, while enjoying the comfort of a well-maintained state park facility. Despite its popularity, Tar Hollow often feels less crowded than some other Ohio parks, especially during off-peak times, making it a true gem for locals seeking a quiet getaway.

Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground is conveniently located at 16396 Tar Hollow Rd, Laurelville, OH 43135, USA. This address places it within the picturesque and rugged landscape of southeastern Ohio, making it an accessible natural retreat for residents across the state. The park is nestled within Ross, Hocking, and Vinton Counties, surrounded by the much larger Tar Hollow State Forest, which spans over 16,000 acres.

Access to the campground is typically via well-maintained state and local roads, leading visitors through scenic Ohio countryside. While one review mentioned that finding the hiking trails initially proved "frustrating as nothing was visibly marked until you were almost on the trail," once on the trails, they were "marked beautifully." This suggests that while initial navigation to specific trailheads might require consulting a map, reaching the campground itself and accessing the park's main areas is generally straightforward. For RV and camper enthusiasts, the sites are noted to be "VERY roomy," accommodating various vehicle sizes. However, it's important to note that the campground primarily offers electric hookups, with no sewer or water hookups at individual sites, meaning RVers will need to utilize the central dump station and water fill station. Despite some areas having outhouse-style bathrooms, there are "nicer facilities near the shower house," ensuring that essential comforts are available. Its location provides a true sense of being "away from it all," making it a perfect spot for Ohioans to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground offers a range of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience within its natural setting:

• Electric Campsites: The campground features a significant number of sites (around 71) that offer electric hookups (20, 30, or 50 amp) for RVs and trailers. These sites are noted for being "VERY roomy" and can accommodate slide-out RVs.

• Non-Electric Campsites: A variety of non-electric sites are also available, including some designated as "Tent Only" due to their dimensions or other site conditions, catering to traditional tent campers.

• Paved Pads: Many sites include paved pads, providing a level and stable surface for setting up.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor dining and campfires.

• Heated Shower House with Flush Toilets: A major highlight, as noted by campers, is the "really decent" heated shower house with flush restrooms. This facility provides a comfortable and clean experience, especially important after a day of hiking. (Note: This facility typically closes from Dec. 5 to April 1).

• Pit Latrines: In addition to the main shower house, outhouse-style pit latrines are located around the campsites.

• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are available, offering a practical convenience for longer stays.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RV and trailer campers to dispose of wastewater.

• Potable Water: Fresh drinking water is available at centralized points, including across from the dump station.

• Campground General Store: Open seasonally, the General Store offers camping supplies, snacks, souvenirs, and even rents out sporting equipment like bikes, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats.

• Sherman Cabins: For those seeking a bit more comfort, Tar Hollow offers two Sherman Cabins, which sleep 4, are temperature-controlled, and include a refrigerator and microwave. One cabin is ADA compliant. (Note: Pets are generally not allowed in Sherman Cabins).

• Group Camping: Seven Group Camp sites are available, each accommodating up to 20 campers. These sites often include open shelter houses with picnic tables, and some have fireplaces or grills.

• Primitive Hike-in Camping: For a more rugged experience, primitive sites are available along the Logan Backpack Trail, accessible by hike-in only. These sites are first-come, first-served, and registration is done at the General Store or park office.

• Pet-Friendly Campsites: Pets are permitted on all standard camping sites, allowing Ohioans to bring their furry friends along for the adventure, subject to park regulations.

Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground offers a variety of appealing features and highlights that make it a distinct and desirable destination for Ohio locals:

• Spacious Campsites: A frequently praised highlight is the "VERY roomy" nature of the campsites. This allows for comfortable setups for RVs and provides a greater sense of personal space compared to some more tightly packed campgrounds.

• Excellent Shower Houses: Campers consistently commend the "really decent" and often heated shower houses with flush toilets. This elevated level of cleanliness and comfort is a significant draw, especially after a day of outdoor activities.

• Pine Lake and Swimming Beach Access: The campground is within walking distance of Pine Lake, which features a 500-foot sandy beach. Swimming is permitted in designated areas (though no lifeguard is on duty), offering a refreshing activity during warmer months.

• Boating and Fishing Opportunities: Pine Lake (15 acres) permits hand-powered vessels and electric-only boats. A launch ramp is available. The lake is stocked with bluegill, bass, and catfish, providing good fishing opportunities. Canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats can be rented seasonally from the General Store.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: Tar Hollow State Park boasts a network of trails, including the 2.5-mile Homestead Trail, the 3.5-mile Ross Hollow Hiking Trail, and the challenging 21-mile Logan Backpack Trail (which forms a figure-eight and includes primitive backpacker campsites). While trail marking might require initial attention, the beauty once on the trail is highly valued.

• Variety of Camping Options: Beyond standard electric and non-electric sites, the presence of Sherman Cabins, Group Camping sites, and Primitive Hike-in camping means there's an option for nearly every camping style and group size.

• Seasonal General Store and Activities: The General Store provides convenient access to supplies, and recreational rentals like mini-golf, a game room, and sporting equipment for loan add extra fun, especially for families.

• Abundant Wildlife and Natural Beauty: The park's deep ravines, dense woodlands, and diverse flora (including dogwoods, redbuds, and wildflowers) create a rich habitat for various wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for observation. The fall foliage is particularly spectacular.

• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite being a state park, Tar Hollow often maintains a quieter, more secluded feel than some of its more heavily visited counterparts, allowing for a truly peaceful outdoor experience.

As part of the Ohio State Parks system, Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground participates in a variety of statewide promotions and discounts. These offers are designed to make camping and lodging more accessible for Ohio residents and other eligible visitors:

• Golden Buckeye Card Discount: Ohio residents aged 60 and older with a valid Golden Buckeye Card can enjoy a 50% discount on camping fees from Sunday through Thursday, and a 10% discount on Friday and Saturday. This is a significant benefit for senior campers.

• Active/Retired Military Discount: Active and retired military personnel receive a 10% discount on all overnight facilities, valid every night of the week. This discount is not limited to Ohio residents.

• Disabled Veteran/POW Free Camping Pass: Honorably discharged Ohio resident veterans who are former Prisoners of War or permanently and totally disabled (and receiving compensation from the VA) may qualify for a free camping pass. While the standard camping fee is waived, a $6.50 reservation fee still applies.

• State Parks Rewards Program: Ohio State Parks offers a rewards program where campers earn points for every dollar spent on reservations and purchases. These points can then be redeemed for discounts on future stays, up to $300 per transaction. This loyalty program is a great way for frequent Ohio State Parks visitors to save.

• Off-Peak Season Rates: Camping during the off-peak season (typically November 1 to April 1) often comes with reduced nightly rates. During this period, the heated shower house and dump station usually remain open, and water is available at a central location, making it a viable and more affordable option for off-season adventurers.

• Seasonal Campground Store Offerings: While not a direct discount on camping, the seasonal General Store often has equipment rentals (like canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, bikes) and mini-golf, which can add value to your stay.

To take advantage of these offers, it is highly recommended for Ohio residents to visit the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website (ohiodnr.gov) or their reservation portal (reserveohio.com) for the most current information, eligibility requirements, and to book their stay.

For reservations, inquiries, or to get more detailed information about Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground, Ohio residents can use the following contact details:

• Address: 16396 Tar Hollow Rd, Laurelville, OH 43135, USA

• Park Office Phone: (740) 887-4818

• Mobile Phone: +1 740-887-4818

• Reservations (Ohio State Parks Central Line): (866) 644-6727 (This is the general reservation line for all Ohio State Parks and is recommended for booking campsites and cabins).

• Website: While there isn't a direct website for just the campground, detailed information and the online reservation portal can be found through the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website: ohiodnr.gov (search for Tar Hollow State Park) or reserveohio.com.

It is always advisable to make reservations in advance, especially for popular weekends and peak seasons, as Tar Hollow State Park campground can fill up quickly. Checking the ODNR website for the most current operating hours and any park alerts or advisories before your visit is also a good practice.

Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground is an excellent choice for Ohio locals seeking a genuine and serene outdoor experience within their home state. Its suitability stems from several key aspects that cater directly to the desires of Ohio residents looking for a convenient and fulfilling natural getaway.

Firstly, the campground offers a beautiful and spacious setting, providing a true sense of escape into the dense woodlands and deep ravines of Tar Hollow. For Ohioans, this means easy access to a less-crowded, yet equally stunning, natural area compared to some of the more bustling parks. The "VERY roomy" campsites allow for comfortable setups, whether you're in an RV or a tent, ensuring a relaxing base for your adventures.

Secondly, the availability of essential amenities like electric hookups, well-maintained shower houses with flush toilets, and laundry facilities ensures that campers can enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing too much comfort. While basic, these facilities are crucial for a pleasant stay, and the emphasis on cleanliness, as noted by visitors, is a significant plus for local campers. The presence of Pine Lake, with its swimming beach and opportunities for boating and fishing, adds diverse recreational options right at your doorstep.

Finally, Tar Hollow State Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including extensive hiking trails for all skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging backpacking routes. This makes it perfect for Ohioans who love to explore and stay active. The park's unique natural beauty, with its distinct shortleaf and pitch pines, dogwoods, and spectacular fall colors, offers a changing landscape throughout the year, encouraging repeat visits. For any Ohioan looking for a peaceful, well-equipped, and naturally beautiful camping destination that feels truly removed from the everyday, Tar Hollow State Park Logan Hollow Campground is an ideal and highly recommended choice.