Camping at Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius Campground
Overview of Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius Campground
Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius Campground is situated within the Wayne National Forest in Ohio. Named after the nearby Lake Vesuvius, the campground provides a blend of outdoor activities and the serenity of nature, making it a popular destination for campers, hikers, anglers, and families.
Location and Accessibility
Address: Oak Hill Campground, Wayne National Forest Pedro, OH, USA
The campground is located within the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, which is in the northeastern part of Wayne National Forest. Access to the campground typically requires traveling on country roads and following signs to the recreation area.
Campground Facilities and Amenities
Facilities and Services:
- Campsites with varying levels of amenities including primitive sites and others with electricity
- Drinking water is usually available
- Restrooms and shower facilities for campers
- Picnic tables and fire rings at most camp sites
- Dump station for RVs
Recreational Opportunities:
- Multiple hiking trails, including lakeside trails and more challenging hikes
- Fishing on Lake Vesuvius known for a variety of fish species
- Boating opportunities with a boat ramp provided; electric motors only
- Swimming is available though there may not always be a designated beach or lifeguards
- Hunting in the surrounding national forest with the proper permits and during the appropriate seasons
Camping Options
- Tent Sites: For those who wish to camp in tents, there are designated sites to ensure you have a comfortable spot to set up.
- RV Camping: RV sites with electrical hookups are available, accommodating different RV sizes.
- Group Camping: For larger groups, there may be facilities that can be reserved in advance to accommodate multiple families or groups.
Camping Reservations and Fees
Camping at Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius Campground typically requires a reservation especially during peak seasons. Sites may be booked through the official reservation service used by the National Forest Service.
Fees:
- Camping fees vary depending on the type of site (primitive, electric, group site) and the time of year.
- Amenities such as electricity may incur additional fees.
Rules and Regulations
- Firewood: To prevent the spread of invasive insects, bringing in outside firewood may be prohibited. Purchasing local or treated firewood may be recommended.
- Pets: Pets are usually allowed but should be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
- Alcohol and Substances: Alcohol consumption is typically allowed within campsites, but public intoxication and illegal substances are prohibited.
- Quiet Hours: These are enacted to ensure a peaceful experience for all campers. Be sure to adhere to these times, usually from 10 PM to 6 AM.
- Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, you are expected to leave your campsite and any other areas you use as clean as or cleaner than you found it, carrying out all your trash.
Safety Considerations
When camping at Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius Campground, always practice safety precautions such as:
- Being aware of the local wildlife and maintaining a safe distance
- Ensuring fires are fully extinguished before leaving them unattended
- Following water safety guidelines when boating or swimming
- Keeping food securely stored to avoid attracting animals
- Staying on marked trails while hiking to avoid getting lost
Seasonal Considerations
The campground and certain facilities may be closed during the off-season months, or services may be limited. Before planning your trip, check the latest operational status, weather conditions, and campground accessibility.
Contacts for More Information
For the latest information on Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius Campground, it is best to contact the local ranger district:
- Ironton Ranger District Office: They can provide you with the most current information about campground status, reservations, rules, and regulations.
Additionally, the official Wayne National Forest website and reservation system can provide up-to-date details and any alerts you should be aware of before and during your visit.
