Trailriders Campground - Harrison State Forest

For Ohioans who cherish the unique blend of equestrian adventure and serene natural beauty, Trailriders Campground in Harrison State Forest presents an unparalleled opportunity. Nestled within the vast, verdant expanse of Harrison State Forest, this campground is specifically designed to cater to horseback riders, offering direct access to miles of scenic bridle trails. However, its rustic charm and peaceful setting also make it a wonderful destination for hikers, hunters, and anyone seeking a genuine, unplugged camping experience away from the bustling crowds.

Harrison State Forest is a gem in eastern Ohio, providing a haven for wildlife and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Trailriders Campground, managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry, embodies the spirit of primitive camping, emphasizing connection with nature over extensive modern amenities. It’s a place where the neigh of a horse might be your morning alarm, and the whisper of the wind through the trees sets the pace for your day. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to Trailriders Campground, offering local Ohio residents all the essential information needed to plan an authentic and adventurous outdoor escape.

Trailriders Campground is strategically located at 85250 Camp Rd, Cadiz, OH 43907, USA, deep within the scenic Harrison State Forest. This placement is ideal for its primary purpose: providing direct access to the forest's extensive network of bridle trails, hiking paths, and hunting areas. Cadiz, a charming town with historical significance, is the nearest major community, offering a sense of rural Ohio life and providing access to basic necessities should campers need to venture out of the forest.

While the campground offers a distinctly secluded and natural environment, it remains reasonably accessible for Ohio residents. It requires navigating some rural roads to reach the heart of the state forest, but these roads are generally well-maintained. The drive itself becomes part of the experience, transitioning from developed areas to the tranquil embrace of the forest. It’s important to note that cell phone reception can be spotty in such remote areas, as one reviewer mentioned having "no reception" with AT&T unless climbing a hill. This characteristic, while potentially an inconvenience for some, is often a highlight for those looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the wilderness. The quiet location helps to ensure a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for those who seek solace and natural sounds.

Trailriders Campground in Harrison State Forest provides essential services that support a rustic and self-sufficient camping experience, particularly tailored for those with horses. The focus is on functionality and facilitating direct access to the forest's resources:

• Primitive Campsites: The campground offers designated primitive campsites. While specific numbers of sites are not always explicitly stated for state forest campgrounds, they are designed to accommodate campers, often with areas suitable for tents and horse trailers. These sites emphasize a more traditional, less developed camping experience.
• Water Access: While the exact nature of water sources can vary in primitive campgrounds, public data often indicates access to non-potable water for horses, and sometimes limited potable water for human use (though it's always safest to bring your own drinking water for primitive sites unless explicitly stated as potable). It’s designed to ensure both campers and their horses have access to necessary hydration.
• Vault Latrines: The campground is equipped with vault toilets (also known as pit toilets), providing basic restroom facilities. These are common in state forest and primitive campgrounds and are generally maintained for cleanliness, fitting the rustic theme.
• Horse Tie-Stalls or Hitching Posts: A crucial service for equestrian campers, sites typically offer designated areas or facilities for safely securing horses, such as tie-stalls or hitching posts. This ensures the comfort and safety of both the animals and their owners.
• Parking for Trailers: Ample space is usually available for parking horse trailers and RVs, accommodating the larger vehicles that equestrians often bring.
• Public Hunting Access: As part of Harrison State Forest, the campground provides direct access to public hunting areas. This is a significant service for hunters, offering convenience for their activities during hunting seasons, as highlighted by a reviewer who mentioned "public hunting 🦌."
• Dog-Friendly Environment: The campground is noted as dog-friendly, allowing campers to bring their canine companions along for the adventure. This is a big plus for many Ohio pet owners, although responsible pet ownership (leashing, waste disposal) is expected.
• Trash Disposal: While not always explicitly detailed, state forest campgrounds typically have some form of waste disposal or encourage pack-it-in/pack-it-out practices to maintain the natural environment. However, it's best to be prepared to take your trash with you if no receptacles are available.

Trailriders Campground in Harrison State Forest offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout choice, especially for a particular niche of outdoor enthusiasts in Ohio:

• Equestrian Focus and Trail Access: This is the paramount highlight. The campground's design and location provide direct, easy access to Harrison State Forest's extensive network of bridle trails. This makes it an unparalleled destination for horseback riding, allowing riders to explore miles of scenic forest paths right from their campsite.
• Authentic Primitive Camping: For those who prefer a less developed, more natural camping experience, Trailriders delivers. It offers a rustic environment that allows campers to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest. The lack of extensive modern amenities is a feature, not a drawback, for this type of camper.
• Access to Public Hunting: A significant draw for hunters, the campground's location within Harrison State Forest provides direct access to designated public hunting lands. This convenience is a major benefit for those participating in hunting seasons in Ohio.
• Dog-Friendly: The welcoming stance towards dogs means that Ohio pet owners don't have to leave their beloved companions behind. This enhances the family outdoor experience, allowing everyone to participate in the adventure.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite accommodating larger vehicles like horse trailers, the campground maintains a generally quiet and serene ambiance, as suggested by its remote location. This makes it an ideal spot for peaceful weekend getaways and unwinding in nature.
• Scenic Forest Environment: Harrison State Forest itself is a beautiful backdrop, offering lush woodlands, diverse wildlife, and picturesque landscapes. Campers can enjoy the natural beauty through hiking, wildlife viewing, and simply relaxing in the forest setting.
• Proximity to Ponds: While not the primary focus, the presence of "2 ponds" near the campground offers additional opportunities for quiet reflection or possibly limited fishing, adding to the recreational variety.
• Sense of Community: For equestrian campers, there's often a strong sense of camaraderie and shared passion for horses and the outdoors, creating a welcoming community among fellow riders.

It is crucial to be aware of the limited cell phone reception, as mentioned by a reviewer. This can be seen as a feature for those wanting to truly unplug, but it’s a necessary consideration for safety or communication needs. Additionally, as with any natural environment, preparedness for insects like ticks is important, as noted by a past visitor.

As a state forest campground operated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry, Trailriders Campground typically operates on a fee basis for its sites. While it may not offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense like private campgrounds, its pricing is generally very competitive and often more affordable than many private RV parks or state park campgrounds with more extensive amenities. The value it offers lies in its direct access to vast state forest lands and specialized facilities for equestrians.

It is always recommended for Ohio residents to check the official ODNR Division of Forestry website or call the state forest office for the most current information regarding fees, reservation policies, and any potential seasonal changes. For instance, some state forest campgrounds might offer discounts for extended stays, or particular passes might apply. However, the inherent "offer" of Trailriders Campground is its dedicated equestrian facilities and access to public hunting grounds, which are invaluable for those pursuing these specific outdoor activities.

For inquiries and more specific details about Trailriders Campground in Harrison State Forest, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: 85250 Camp Rd, Cadiz, OH 43907, USA
• Phone: (877) 247-8733
• Mobile Phone: +1 877-247-8733
• Given the specific nature of this campground, particularly for equestrians and hunters, a direct phone call is often the most effective way to confirm details about site availability, horse facilities, trail conditions, or any specific rules related to hunting or pet policies. As state forest campgrounds often operate on a first-come, first-served basis for primitive sites, calling ahead for general information is key.

Trailriders Campground in Harrison State Forest is an exceptionally suitable destination for Ohio locals, particularly those with a passion for equestrian activities, hunting, or a desire for a truly primitive and immersive outdoor experience. For horse owners across Ohio, the campground offers a dedicated and convenient base to access miles of scenic bridle trails, making it an invaluable resource for their recreational pursuits. The availability of facilities to accommodate horses directly at the campsite streamlines the entire experience, allowing riders to spend more time on the trails and less time on logistics.

Beyond equestrians, the campground's appeal extends to hikers and hunters. Its location within Harrison State Forest provides direct access to public hunting grounds, offering a significant advantage for Ohio hunters seeking convenient access to their sport. For hikers and nature enthusiasts, the miles of trails and the serene forest environment provide ample opportunities for exploration, wildlife viewing, and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of Ohio's natural landscapes. The primitive nature of the camping experience encourages a deeper connection with the outdoors, fostering self-reliance and an appreciation for simpler living.

The campground's dog-friendly policy is another significant draw for many Ohioans, allowing beloved canine companions to join in the adventure, further enhancing the family outdoor experience. While challenges like limited cell service and the need to be prepared for insects (like ticks) are part of the rustic appeal, these are often seen as minor considerations for those committed to an authentic forest experience. The generally peaceful atmosphere, as noted by visitors, ensures a truly relaxing getaway, far from the noise and distractions of urban life.

In essence, Trailriders Campground in Harrison State Forest is a specialized yet welcoming outdoor haven. It’s an ideal choice for Ohioans seeking an affordable, authentic, and activity-focused camping experience, especially for those with horses or a strong interest in hunting and deep forest exploration. It represents a unique facet of Ohio's diverse public lands, inviting locals to saddle up for adventure and discover the wilder side of our beautiful state.