Iron Ridge Campground

For us Ohioans, the call of the wild often leads us to the serene beauty of our state's national forests and recreational areas. When it comes to truly unplugging and immersing ourselves in nature, finding a campground that offers both comfort and adventure is key. That’s where Iron Ridge Campground, nestled within the expansive Wayne National Forest near Pedro, truly shines. It's a beloved spot for locals looking to escape the everyday, offering a perfect blend of natural tranquility and essential amenities for a memorable outdoor experience.

Ohio's landscape, particularly in the southern reaches, provides a unique backdrop for outdoor activities. The rolling hills and dense forests of the Wayne National Forest are a treasure, and Iron Ridge Campground allows us to tap directly into this natural wonder. It’s not just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to hiking adventures, peaceful lakeside moments, and genuine relaxation under the Ohio sky. Many of us have fond memories of growing up exploring these very woods, and Iron Ridge Campground offers the chance to create new ones with family and friends.

What makes Iron Ridge Campground stand out to us locals? It's the balance it strikes. Visitors consistently highlight the spacious and cozy campsites, providing ample room to spread out and enjoy privacy, even when other campers are nearby. This is a crucial detail for anyone who appreciates a sense of personal space during their outdoor retreat. Imagine settling into your site, complete with a fire pit and a convenient swivel grill grate, ready for those quintessential campfire meals and stories under the stars. The feeling of being comfortably nestled within the beauty of the forest, yet having all your needs met, is a defining characteristic of Iron Ridge.

Beyond the individual campsites, the campground’s commitment to cleanliness and visitor comfort is frequently praised. We're talking about bathrooms and showers that are remarkably well-maintained, a true comfort after a day of hiking or exploring. This attention to detail reflects a dedication to providing a pleasant experience for all who visit. For those of us who value a clean and functional base camp while enjoying the ruggedness of the outdoors, Iron Ridge Campground proves to be an excellent choice. It's a place where you can truly relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, knowing that the essentials are taken care of.

Iron Ridge Campground is conveniently located at 2300 Ellisonville-Paddle Creek Rd, Pedro, OH 45659, USA. Situated within the Wayne National Forest in southern Ohio, its address places it near the scenic Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, making it a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground is approximately 6.5 miles north of Ironton, just off State Route 93 on County Road 29. This location offers a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, while still being relatively accessible from various parts of Ohio. For those traveling from larger cities in Ohio, the drive generally involves a scenic journey through the state's picturesque rural landscapes. While some campsites have reported being "difficult to get into" for larger RVs, the overall accessibility to the campground via well-marked roads makes it a practical destination for many types of campers. Visitors should be aware that once inside the campground, maneuvering might require some skill, but the journey promises a rewarding natural retreat.

• Tent and RV Sites: A variety of campsites are available, accommodating both tent campers and recreational vehicles.
• Electric Hookups: Many RV sites offer electric hookups for convenience.
• Water Hookups: Water is available at campsites, providing essential access for campers.
• Dump Station: An on-site dump station is available for RVs.
• Clean Restrooms: The campground boasts accessible flush toilets that are consistently reviewed as very clean.
• Shower Facilities: Available for campers, providing a convenient way to refresh after outdoor activities. (Note: one older review mentioned cold water showers, but more recent reviews highlight overall cleanliness.)
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings with Grill Grates: Individual fire pits with swivel grill grates are provided at each site, perfect for campfires and cooking.
• Drinking Water: Available throughout the campground.

• Spacious and Cozy Campsites: Guests consistently highlight the generous size and comfortable feel of the individual campsites, providing ample room and privacy.
• Exceptional Cleanliness: The restrooms and showers are frequently praised for their cleanliness, contributing significantly to a positive camping experience.
• Direct Access to Hiking Trails: The campground offers access to a network of beautiful hiking trails, including a 1/2-mile trail connecting directly to Lake Vesuvius, and shorter trails leading to attractions like Rock House Cave. More than 40 miles of trails exist in the larger recreation area.
• Proximity to Lake Vesuvius: Guests have easy access to the 143-acre Lake Vesuvius for activities like fishing (bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill), non-motorized boating (boat ramp available), and swimming in designated areas.
• Beautiful Forest Setting: Nestled on a wooded ridge within the scenic Wayne National Forest, surrounded by mature eastern hardwoods, offering a picturesque backdrop.
• Fire Pits with Swivel Grill Grates: A convenient feature at each site for easy campfire cooking.
• Opportunity for Disconnection: Some reviews note limited cell signal and satellite connectivity due to dense tree cover, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a true digital detox.

As a campground primarily managed by the Wayne National Forest, Iron Ridge Campground operates within the pricing structures common for national forest recreation areas. While specific, ongoing "special offers" in the traditional sense (like discounts or bundled packages) are not widely advertised, the pricing is generally considered very affordable, especially compared to private campgrounds. For example, sites with electric and water typically cost $20/night, while water-only sites are $15/night. The campground also accepts Senior Passes and Access Passes, providing discounts for eligible individuals, which is a significant benefit for many Ohioans. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov, which is the standard platform for booking sites in national parks and forests. Additionally, during the Ohio deer gun season, the Pine Knob Loop is open for camping on a first-come, first-serve basis, offering a specific opportunity outside the regular season. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and any specific seasonal offerings or pass benefits, it is always best to check the official Wayne National Forest website or Recreation.gov.

Address: 2300 Ellisonville-Paddle Creek Rd, Pedro, OH 45659, USA

Phone for campground inquiries: (740) 534-6500 (Ironton Ranger District, Wayne National Forest)

Website: For reservations and detailed information, visit

www.recreation.gov

www.fs.usda.gov/wayne

For us Ohioans, Iron Ridge Campground in Pedro is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a cherished gateway to the heart of the Wayne National Forest and the authentic outdoor experiences our state offers. It's particularly suitable for locals because it strikes a remarkable balance between being immersed in nature and providing the essential comforts that make a camping trip truly enjoyable.

The spacious and private campsites are a major draw. We appreciate having room to breathe, to set up our camp without feeling crowded by neighbors, and to truly feel like we've escaped the confines of daily life. The thoughtful inclusion of fire pits with swivel grill grates at each site speaks directly to the quintessential Ohio camping experience – evenings filled with crackling fires, good food, and shared stories under a canopy of stars. These details demonstrate an understanding of what makes a camping trip truly special for those who live here.

Furthermore, the consistently clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers are a significant comfort, especially for families or those who prefer a bit more convenience after a day of exploring. This attention to essential facilities allows campers to focus on the natural beauty and recreational opportunities rather than worrying about basic amenities. The direct access to miles of hiking trails, including paths that lead to the stunning Lake Vesuvius, provides endless possibilities for exploration, fishing, and simply enjoying the peaceful forest environment that defines this part of Ohio.

Iron Ridge Campground embodies the spirit of accessible outdoor adventure within our own state. Its location allows for relatively easy travel from many Ohio communities, making it a practical choice for weekend getaways or longer vacations without requiring extensive travel. For any Ohioan seeking a well-kept, spacious, and genuinely peaceful camping experience surrounded by natural beauty, Iron Ridge Campground is an excellent choice, promising a refreshing escape and lasting memories right here in our backyard.

Iron Ridge Campground

2300 Ellisonville-Paddle Creek Rd, Pedro, OH 45659, USA