Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground

For Ohioans seeking a genuine escape into the beauty of the Appalachian foothills, Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground in Laurelville presents an ideal destination. This well-maintained and welcoming campground offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it a favorite for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to reconnect with nature. Nestled within the picturesque Tar Hollow State Park and adjacent State Forest, it provides a serene backdrop for all your outdoor pursuits, from peaceful lakeside relaxation to invigorating hikes through dense woodlands.

Tar Hollow State Park, named for the early settlers who extracted pine tar from the native pitch pine trees, is known for its rugged terrain, deep ravines, and diverse forests. The Ross Hollow Campground, situated within this natural haven, embodies the park's tranquil spirit. Visitors consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness, particularly the shower houses and restrooms, which are a testament to the park's commitment to providing a comfortable experience. While cellular service might be limited, many find this to be a welcome relief, an invitation to truly unplug and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings and the brilliant night sky.

Beyond just a place to stay, Ross Hollow Campground serves as a basecamp for a myriad of activities. Its beautiful Pine Lake is a central attraction, offering a safe and inviting spot for swimming, complete with a popular dock for jumping. The park also provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Whether you're looking to unwind by the water, explore miles of trails, or simply enjoy quality time around a campfire with loved ones, Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground delivers a memorable Ohio outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground is conveniently located in Laurelville, OH 43135, USA. This places it in southeastern Ohio, within the rugged foothills of the Appalachian Plateau, close to the borders of Ross, Vinton, and Hocking Counties. While it offers a feeling of seclusion and wilderness, the campground is accessible via state routes, making it a manageable drive for many Ohio residents.

The park's address and its proximity to cities like Chillicothe ensure that reaching this natural retreat is relatively straightforward. The winding park and forest roads leading to the campground contribute to the scenic journey, showcasing the area's deep ravines and dense woodlands. This accessibility, combined with the feeling of being truly "away from it all," makes Tar Hollow an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a longer camping vacation for those living anywhere in Ohio. Despite its serene setting, it's not so remote that it becomes difficult to reach, striking a perfect balance for a relaxing escape.

Services Offered

• Electric Campsites: The campground offers a selection of electric sites, accommodating RVs and campers with 50-amp hookups. These sites provide a valuable convenience for modern camping.
• Non-Electric Campsites: For those who prefer a more traditional tent camping experience, numerous non-electric sites are available, often offering varying degrees of shade.
• Shower Houses: Modern, heated shower houses with flush toilets are available. While cellular service can be a "big zero" as noted by reviewers, the cleanliness of these facilities is consistently praised.
• Pit Latrines: In addition to modern facilities, several well-maintained pit toilets are located throughout the campground for convenience.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are provided, a helpful amenity for longer stays or for refreshing clothes after outdoor activities.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVers to manage their waste tanks.
• Campground General Store: A seasonal store offers essential camping supplies, souvenirs, snacks, and even loaner equipment for games and sports.
• Reservable Shelterhouses: Several shelterhouses are available for group use, some with fireplaces or electric, perfect for gatherings and events.
• Primitive Backpacking Sites: For the more adventurous, hike-in, tent-only primitive sites are available along the Logan Backpack Trail.
• Pet-Friendly Camping: Pets are permitted on all camping sites, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure, though they must be leashed.

Features / Highlights

• Pine Lake with Swimming Beach and Dock: The 15-acre Pine Lake is a central feature, offering a sandy beach for swimming and a popular dock, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages, as confirmed by delighted grandparents.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Tar Hollow State Park boasts over 24 miles of hiking trails, including the family-friendly Homestead Trail, the moderate Ross Hollow Hiking Trail (starting near the campground), and the challenging 21-mile Logan Backpack Trail.
• Boating Opportunities: Pine Lake permits hand-powered vessels and electric-only boats, perfect for canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. A launch ramp is conveniently located near the beach.
• Fishing: Pine Lake offers good fishing for bluegill, bass, and catfish, providing enjoyable angling opportunities (Ohio fishing license required).
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies at Tar Hollow are truly spectacular, offering a memorable experience for campers.
• Playground and Basketball Court: Recreational facilities are available near the campground, providing fun activities for children and families.
• Miniature Golf: An 18-hole miniature golf course adds another layer of recreational fun for campers (seasonal, fee applies).
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species, offering great opportunities for observation.
• Scenic Beauty: The park is renowned for its twisting roads, deep ravines, and dense woodlands, providing stunning scenery, especially during the vibrant fall foliage season.
• Game Room: A game room with coin-operated air hockey, foosball, and a ping-pong table offers indoor entertainment options.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a state park campground, Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground generally operates under a standardized fee structure determined by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Specific, short-term "promotions" in the commercial sense are less common, but the park offers consistent value through its affordable rates and comprehensive facilities. Here’s what Ohio residents can typically expect regarding booking and pricing:

Online Reservations: Campsites at Tar Hollow State Park can be reserved online through the Ohio State Parks reservation system. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season and weekends, and can typically be made up to six months in advance.

Varying Site Rates: Rates for campsites usually depend on whether they are electric or non-electric. Generally, state park fees are designed to be accessible, offering excellent value for the amenities and natural environment provided. For instance, electric sites might be in the range of $20-$27 per night.

Primitive Site Pricing: Backpacking sites on the Logan Backpack Trail have a separate, lower fee, usually around $4 per adult and $1 per youth per night, appealing to hikers seeking a more rugged, budget-friendly experience.

Off-Peak Season Information: During the off-peak season (typically December to April), the heated showerhouse with flush restrooms may close, with pit latrines remaining available. Water might be available only at a centralized location near the dump station. Rates might also be adjusted during these times.

Group Camping Options: Seven group campsites are available, accommodating up to 20 campers each, making it an economical option for larger gatherings.

It's always best to visit the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources website or use their reservation portal for the most current pricing, availability, and any specific seasonal notices or policies.

Contact Information

To plan your refreshing getaway at Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground, or to inquire about site availability and park amenities, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Laurelville, OH 43135, USA

Phone: (740) 887-4818

Mobile Phone: +1 740-887-4818

For reservations, it's often most efficient to visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) State Parks reservation website or call their central reservation line, as this ensures you get the most up-to-date availability and booking information for all Ohio State Parks.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Ohio residents, Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground is more than just a place to camp; it's an accessible natural sanctuary that offers a genuine taste of the state's diverse landscapes. Its location in Laurelville makes it a relatively easy drive for families and outdoor enthusiasts across Ohio, transforming a typical weekend into an enriching wilderness experience. The park’s commitment to cleanliness, especially in its shower houses and restrooms, ensures a comfortable stay, a detail highly valued by local visitors who appreciate well-maintained public facilities.

The abundance of family-friendly activities, from swimming and a dock for jumping in Pine Lake to a playground and miniature golf, ensures that children of all ages will find something to love. Parents can relax knowing the lake is a safe place for kids to swim, as highlighted in glowing reviews. For those seeking more active pursuits, the extensive hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and ability to use electric-only boats on Pine Lake provide endless ways to explore. While cellular service might be spotty, this serves as a gentle reminder to disconnect from digital distractions and truly immerse oneself in the stunning natural environment, enjoying quiet nights under a canopy of stars. Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground offers Ohioans a convenient, affordable, and incredibly scenic escape, fostering memorable moments and a deeper appreciation for the beauty right in their backyard.

Tar Hollow State Park Ross Hollow Campground

Laurelville, OH 43135, USA