Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2

For us Ohioans who truly crave an immersive wilderness experience, far from the typical campground amenities, the Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 offers a rugged and rewarding adventure. Located within the expansive Shawnee State Forest near West Portsmouth, this backcountry camp is a time-honored favorite for serious hikers and backpackers seeking solitude and natural beauty. It's not your average car-camping spot; it's a destination designed for those who embrace the challenge and tranquility of the trail, making it a perfect fit for Ohio locals looking to truly disconnect and test their outdoor skills.

Ohio's landscape, particularly in the southern region, provides some of the most challenging and rewarding backpacking opportunities in the state. Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 sits on the North Loop of the famed Shawnee Backpacking Trail, a route that has captivated outdoor enthusiasts for decades. As one long-time visitor noted, this camp has been a favorite for over 50 years, a testament to its enduring appeal and the pristine nature of its surroundings. The emphasis here is on self-sufficiency and respect for the wilderness, offering a true escape into the "Little Smokies" of Ohio.

If the idea of clear, naturally beautiful trails and profound solitude appeals to you, then Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 is a place to consider for your next multi-day adventure. It’s where the challenge of a strenuous hike meets the reward of untouched nature, allowing for a deeper connection with Ohio's wilderness. For local backpackers, this camp represents a quintessential experience, providing an opportunity to hone skills, enjoy quiet reflection, and create lasting memories on some of the state's most beloved trails.

Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 is located within the vast Shawnee State Forest, near West Portsmouth, OH 45663, USA. This strategic positioning places it deep within what is often referred to as "Ohio's Little Smokies" – a rugged, heavily forested region in the unglaciated Appalachian foothills of southern Ohio. For Ohio residents, particularly those who live in the southern and central parts of the state, it's an accessible wilderness escape, though reaching the specific camp involves a hike.

The camp is situated on the North Loop of the Shawnee Backpacking Trail. The main trailhead for the Shawnee Backpacking Trail is typically accessed from State Route 125, off US 52 West near Portsmouth. From the trailhead, Camp 2 is reached by backpacking along the designated trails. Accessibility to the camp itself is strictly by foot, as it is a backcountry site. This ensures the solitude and pristine nature that backpackers seek.

Water sources along the Shawnee Backpacking Trail are often "hauled water available at or near all backpack camping areas, except Camp 6," suggesting that Camp 2 likely has a cistern. However, hikers are always advised to treat or filter any water obtained from natural sources. Vault toilets are also provided at each campground along the trail. This reliance on basic, self-sufficient facilities reinforces the true wilderness experience that Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 offers, making it an authentic destination for Ohioans ready to embrace nature on its own terms.

Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2, as a backcountry campground on a challenging trail, offers essential, minimalist services focused on supporting a true wilderness backpacking experience. It is not designed with the amenities of a typical car-camping facility. Here's what is generally available:

• Designated Campsites: The camp provides designated areas for pitching tents, ensuring proper wilderness etiquette and impact minimization.
• Vault Toilets: Latrines (vault toilets) are provided at each designated campground along the Shawnee Backpacking Trail for waste disposal.
• Water Source (Potable, Hauled In): Potable water is typically available at or near most backpack camping areas, including Camp 2, usually sourced from trucked-in cisterns. However, hikers are always advised to carry sufficient water or have means to filter/treat any water obtained from natural streams, especially as water caches may not be serviced in winter.
• Fire Rings: While not explicitly stated for Camp 2, backpacking camps often include designated fire rings to control campfires, though portable stoves are recommended due to potential wood scarcity. It's crucial to follow all fire safety guidelines, especially during fire danger periods.
• Access to Marked Trails: The primary "service" is its location directly on the North Loop of the Shawnee Backpacking Trail, offering clear, well-maintained paths for multi-day hiking. The main trail is marked with orange blazes, and side trails with white blazes.
• Permit System (No Fee): A self-registration permit (with no fee) is required for all hikers on the Shawnee Backpacking Trail, to be filled out prior to starting the hike.
• Emergency Access: Information about contacting emergency services (dial 911) is typically provided on trail maps or at trailheads.

It is important to note that this is primitive camping. There are no showers, electricity at sites, or modern conveniences like stores directly at the camp. Campers are expected to be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2, and the broader Shawnee Backpacking Trail, offer unique features and highlights that draw seasoned backpackers and those seeking true wilderness immersion in Ohio:

• Profound Solitude and Serenity: A consistent highlight from long-time campers is the "solitude" and "peace" found here. This camp offers a genuine escape from crowded areas, allowing for quiet reflection and an immersive nature experience.
• **"Naturally Beautiful" Trails:** The trails leading to and from Camp 2 are described as "clear, naturally beautiful," providing stunning scenery throughout the hike. This highlights the pristine and untouched feel of the wilderness.
• Challenging and Rewarding Backpacking: The Shawnee Backpacking Trail is known for being one of the more difficult in Ohio, with "plenty of steep climbs and drops of up to 400+ feet." This makes it an ideal destination for experienced backpackers looking for a physical challenge and a sense of accomplishment.
• Historical Significance: Being part of a trail system built decades ago (the North Loop was constructed before the South Loop), Camp 2 carries a sense of history for those who have been camping there for "50 years." This adds a layer of depth for long-time outdoor enthusiasts.
• Extensive Trail Network: As part of the larger Shawnee Backpacking Trail (which has options ranging from 21 to over 50 miles), Camp 2 serves as a key point for multi-day backpacking trips, allowing for extended exploration of the state forest.
• True Wilderness Immersion: Unlike developed campgrounds, Camp 2 provides an authentic backcountry experience. There are no vehicle accesses directly to the site, promoting a deeper connection with nature and requiring self-reliance.
• Hunting Opportunities (in State Forest): Shawnee State Forest is a public hunting area, allowing visitors with proper licenses to engage in hunting activities, adding another dimension for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Wildlife Viewing: The vast, undeveloped forest offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, including various bird species and other forest animals.

As a primitive backpacking camp within Shawnee State Forest, Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 does not typically offer "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense, like discounts or package deals found at commercial campgrounds. Its value lies in the experience itself and the low-cost access to extensive wilderness.

However, it's important for Ohio locals to be aware of the following regarding costs and access:

• No Fee for Camping: There is typically no fee to camp at Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2. This makes it an incredibly affordable option for multi-day wilderness experiences.
• Self-Issued Permit: A self-registration permit is required for all hikers on the Shawnee Backpacking Trail, but it is free. This process helps the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) monitor trail usage and ensure safety without imposing a financial barrier.
• Year-Round Access (with considerations): While Shawnee State Forest is generally open year-round for visitors, water caches at backpacking camps may not be serviced in winter due to bad road conditions. Backpackers should plan accordingly for water purification during colder months.

For the most current information regarding any changes to fees (though unlikely for a primitive camp), permit requirements, or trail conditions, it is best to consult the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website for Shawnee State Forest, or contact the Shawnee State Forest Office. The primary "offer" here is the unparalleled opportunity to experience raw Ohio wilderness at virtually no cost.

For specific inquiries regarding the Shawnee Backpacking Trail or its associated camps, including Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2, it is best to contact the managing authorities. As a primitive backcountry camp, there isn't a direct phone number for the camp itself, but information can be obtained through the state park and forest offices.

Address: West Portsmouth, OH 45663, USA (This is the general area for Shawnee State Forest). The specific location of Camp 2 is a point on the backpacking trail within the forest.

Contact Information for Shawnee State Forest and Park:

• Shawnee State Forest Office: (740) 858-6685
• Shawnee State Park Office: (740) 858-6652

When calling, specify that you are inquiring about the Shawnee Backpacking Trail and Camp 2. They can provide details on trail conditions, water availability, permit requirements, and any essential updates for backpackers. It's always advisable to check official sources before embarking on a backcountry trip.

For Ohio locals with a passion for serious backpacking and a desire for true wilderness immersion, Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 is an exceptionally suitable and rewarding destination. Its placement within the vast and rugged Shawnee State Forest offers an authentic backcountry experience that stands apart from more developed campgrounds. The "clear, naturally beautiful" trails provide a challenging yet incredibly scenic environment for multi-day hikes, allowing for deep solitude and a profound connection with Ohio's "Little Smokies."

This camp is ideal for those who are self-sufficient, appreciate primitive camping, and seek to escape the noise of everyday life. The rich history of the trail, having been a favorite for over half a century, adds a unique charm. Best of all, it offers a high-quality wilderness experience at no camping fee, requiring only a self-issued permit. For Ohio backpackers looking to push their limits, find true peace, and explore some of the state's most beautiful and challenging terrain, Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2 is a cherished and accessible gem.

Shawnee Backpacking Camp 2

West Portsmouth, OH 45663, USA