Forestry Department

For Ohioans passionate about embracing the outdoors, understanding where to find information and resources for our state's vast forest lands is key to unlocking countless adventures. While the address for "Forestry Department" at 1025 Harcourt Rd, Mt Vernon, OH 43050 isn't a direct campground you can just pull up to and pitch a tent, it likely represents a regional office or service center for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry. This crucial entity is responsible for the management, sustainable use, and protection of Ohio's magnificent state forests, which in turn offer a wide array of camping and recreational opportunities across the state.

Think of this "Forestry Department" contact point as your direct line to the experts who oversee the very lands where you can camp, hike, ride, and explore. While the provided reviews simply state "GOOD," this suggests positive, albeit brief, interactions with the services or information provided by this office. For any Ohioan looking to venture into our state forests for a camping trip, whether it's a primitive hike-in experience, an equestrian camp, or roadside camping during hunting season, contacting the Division of Forestry is the essential first step to understanding rules, regulations, and available sites. They are the stewards of Ohio's woodlands, providing the framework for safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences.

---

The "Forestry Department" is located at 1025 Harcourt Rd, Mt Vernon, OH 43050, USA. Mt. Vernon is a city in Knox County, Ohio, situated in the central part of the state. This location makes it relatively accessible for many Ohio residents, serving as a regional point of contact for forestry-related inquiries and services.

While this specific address is not a campground itself, but rather an administrative or service center, its accessibility is important for accessing information about camping within Ohio's state forests. Mt. Vernon is well-connected by state routes, allowing for convenient travel from various parts of Ohio. It provides a local presence for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' Division of Forestry, enabling residents in the area to connect with forest management and recreation professionals.

For those planning outdoor activities in Ohio's state forests, particularly regarding camping, understanding that this address serves as an information hub rather than a direct camping site is key. It's a place where you can likely obtain maps, inquire about permits, or get clarification on regulations before heading out to a designated state forest campground or primitive site. Its central location in the state further enhances its utility as a resource for Ohioans eager to explore our natural heritage.

---

While the "Forestry Department" at this address is not a direct campground, it represents the broader services offered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry, which manages and regulates camping opportunities across Ohio's state forests. These services, while indirect to a specific campsite, are crucial for anyone looking to camp in these public lands:

• Information on Designated Camping Areas: The Division of Forestry provides comprehensive information on where camping is permitted within state forests. This includes family campgrounds (e.g., Fernwood and Harrison state forests), primitive horse camps (at various state forests), remote "Park-and-Pack" primitive campsites (e.g., Mohican-Memorial State Forest, Shawnee, Zaleski, Tar Hollow), and roadside camping during specific hunting seasons.

• Permits and Registration: For certain types of camping, such as "Park-and-Pack" sites, permits are required, even if no fee is collected. This office or the ODNR website would be the source for understanding and obtaining these necessary permits. (Note: A new reservation system for some primitive sites at Mohican-Memorial State Forest is effective September 1, 2025, requiring digital permits.)

• Rules and Regulations: The Division of Forestry sets and enforces rules for camping within state forests, covering aspects like fire restrictions, maximum occupancy per site, duration of stay, quiet hours, and waste disposal. This office can provide clarification on these regulations.

• Maps and Trail Information: Access to detailed maps of state forests, outlining trails and campsite locations, is a critical service offered by the Division of Forestry, either directly from an office or through their official website.

• Forest Management and Conservation Information: Beyond recreation, the Division manages Ohio's forests for sustainable use, wildlife habitat, timber production, and overall ecosystem health. Inquiries about these aspects are also handled by such forestry offices.

• Wildfire Prevention Information: As part of forest management, the Division provides information and guidance on wildfire prevention, which is crucial for campers using fire rings.

Essentially, this "Forestry Department" location serves as an administrative and informational hub, empowering Ohioans to safely and responsibly enjoy the camping opportunities available in our state forests.

---

When considering the "Forestry Department" as a gateway to Ohio's state forest camping, several highlights emerge that directly benefit local users:

• Diverse Primitive Camping Options: Ohio's state forests, managed by the Division of Forestry, offer a wide range of primitive camping experiences, from hike-in "Park-and-Pack" sites for backpackers to horse camps and designated roadside camping areas. This diversity caters to different camping styles and preferences.

• Access to Extensive Trail Systems: State forests boast thousands of miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and APV (All-Purpose Vehicle) use, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation directly accessible from many camping areas.

• Focus on Wilderness Experience: Primitive camping in state forests offers a true escape into nature, emphasizing self-reliance and minimizing amenities (no water, restrooms, or utilities at individual sites) to foster a more authentic outdoor adventure.

• Conservation and Sustainable Management: The Division of Forestry actively manages these lands for long-term health and sustainability, ensuring that Ohio's forests remain vibrant ecosystems for future generations to enjoy. Camping here supports these conservation efforts indirectly.

• Educational Resources: The Division provides valuable information and rules that educate campers on responsible outdoor practices, such as Leave No Trace principles, fire safety, and wildlife awareness, contributing to a safer and more impactful experience.

• Affordable or Free Camping Options: Many primitive camping opportunities within state forests are low-cost or, historically, free (though a permit is required, and a new reservation system for some is coming with no booking fee). This makes wilderness camping accessible to a broader range of Ohioans.

• Pet-Friendly Environments: Generally, pets are permitted in Ohio's state forests and at primitive campsites, provided they are leashed and under control, allowing furry family members to join the adventure.

These highlights underscore the value that the Division of Forestry, accessed perhaps through an office like the one in Mt. Vernon, brings to Ohio's outdoor enthusiasts.

---

As a governmental agency managing public lands, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, does not typically offer commercial "promotions or special offers" in the same way a private business might. Their focus is on providing public access to natural resources under specific regulations and management plans.

However, it's crucial for Ohioans to be aware of certain operational aspects that could be considered "special offers" in terms of access or convenience:

• Low-Cost/No-Fee Camping: Many primitive camping opportunities within Ohio's state forests are either very low-cost or, historically, free (though a permit is still required). This provides an incredibly affordable way for Ohioans to experience the wilderness.

• New Reservation System for Backpack Campsites (Effective September 1, 2025): While not a discount, the implementation of a new reservation system for "Park-and-Pack" campsites (like those in Mohican-Memorial State Forest) could be seen as a "special offer" in terms of guaranteed access. It allows campers to book their primitive site up to 90 days in advance, providing peace of mind and reducing the uncertainty of first-come, first-served availability. There is "no charge to create or cancel a reservation," though a valid permit obtained through the system will be required.

• Seasonal Access & Regulations: While not a promotion, understanding seasonal regulations (e.g., specific hunting seasons allowing roadside camping, fire prohibitions during certain months) can optimize your camping experience within the rules. Information on these is available from the Forestry Department.

For the most accurate and current information regarding permits, fees (if any are introduced for specific sites in the future), and the new reservation system, Ohioans should always consult the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website, particularly the Division of Forestry section, or contact a relevant local office like the one in Mt. Vernon.

---

For general inquiries or to connect with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, a regional office such as the one in Mt. Vernon can be a valuable resource:

• Address: 1025 Harcourt Rd, Mt Vernon, OH 43050, USA

• Phone: (740) 397-3191

• Mobile Phone: +1 740-397-3191

• Official ODNR Division of Forestry Website: For comprehensive information, maps, rules, and to access any online reservation systems (like the one coming for backpack campsites), always refer to the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources website (ohiodnr.gov) and navigate to the Division of Forestry section. This is the most reliable source for up-to-date information on camping and recreation in Ohio's state forests.

While this specific phone number is for a general "Forestry Department," it's likely a regional contact point for the broader ODNR Division of Forestry. For specific camping inquiries, especially about permits, rules for a particular state forest, or the new reservation system, the official ODNR website is often the best initial resource.

---

For Ohio residents, the "Forestry Department" in Mt. Vernon (representing the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry) is incredibly suitable and essential for anyone looking to engage with our state's vast natural heritage, particularly for camping. While not a direct campsite, it is a vital administrative and informational hub that empowers locals to make the most of Ohio's state forests.

Firstly, its regional presence in Mt. Vernon makes it an accessible point of contact for many Ohioans. This allows for direct communication with the experts who manage our forests, enabling residents to get personalized advice, maps, and clarifications on regulations for activities like primitive camping, horse camping, or even roadside camping during hunting seasons. This local connection fosters a sense of stewardship and makes navigating the state's outdoor opportunities much easier.

Secondly, the Division of Forestry's oversight ensures that Ohioans have access to diverse and well-managed camping experiences. From the solitude of a hike-in backpack campsite to the equestrian-friendly areas, our state forests offer something for every outdoor enthusiast. The emphasis on conservation and responsible use, guided by the Forestry Department, means these precious natural spaces are protected for current and future generations. For locals who value authentic outdoor adventures, sustainability, and the peace of mind that comes from proper planning, connecting with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, is the logical and beneficial first step to an unforgettable experience in our beautiful Ohio woodlands.

Forestry Department

1025 Harcourt Rd, Mt Vernon, OH 43050, USA