Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius
4.2143 reviews6518 State Route 93
Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius
$15.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Electric hookup fee is $5, combined with a $15 base fee for standard electric sites. Tent-only sites have similar pricing.
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$50.00
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider740-534-6500
About this campground
Perched high above the sparkling waters of Lake Vesuvius, Iron Ridge beckons adventurers with an irresistible blend of water and woodland activities. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring hidden trails on horseback, or diving into refreshing lake waters, this Wayne National Forest gem transforms every day into an outdoor adventure. From peaceful morning paddles to exhilarating afternoon hikes, Iron Ridge serves as your gateway to southeastern Ohio's most treasured natural playground.
Iron Ridge Campground offers a variety of camping options, including sites for RVs, tents, and first-come, first-serve sites. "The campground offers multiple sites for RV camping, many of which have electric hookups. Some first-come, first-serve sites are also available." (Authoritative Content). It caters to campers seeking both modern amenities and a traditional outdoor experience.
Historical SignificanceFollow the footsteps of ancient peoples along the Lake Shore Trail to discover Rock House Cave, a remarkable sandstone sanctuary that sheltered Native American communities for generations. This natural cathedral, carved by time and elements, stands as a testament to thousands of years of human history, inviting modern explorers to connect with the sacred stories etched into its weathered walls.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, comfortable days perfect for lake activities and evening campfires, while spring and fall paint the forest in spectacular colors with crisp, invigorating air. These shoulder seasons offer ideal conditions for hiking and horseback riding, with fewer crowds and nature's seasonal transformations on full display.
ElevationFrom your ridgetop sanctuary, the campground commands breathtaking views as it rises majestically above Lake Vesuvius, offering campers a eagle's-eye perspective of the shimmering waters below while keeping you nestled among the treetops.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering eastern hardwoods create a living cathedral around your campsite, their ancient branches forming a verdant canopy that filters golden sunlight by day and frames starlit skies by night. Below, the 143-acre Lake Vesuvius mirrors the surrounding forest, creating a stunning natural amphitheater where ridge meets water in perfect harmony.
Geological RegionDeep in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio's Wayne National Forest, this 143-acre aquatic jewel sits cradled by mature eastern hardwood forests that have stood sentinel for centuries. The landscape tells the story of ancient seas and patient erosion, creating the dramatic ridges, hidden hollows, and pristine lake that define this remarkable corner of Appalachian foothills.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible flush toilets and easily accessible trails. However, one review noted that signage and navigation could be improved: "Interior roads are dangerous with non-forgiving low shoulders and non-existing signage or delineators." (Review by GERALD B).
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some offering good privacy. "Iron Ridge CG offers many spacious sites as opposed to the Oak Hill CG. Some sites offer good privacy, too." (Review by MICHAEL B).
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. "The spots themselves are spaced out very well." (Review by Paxtyn B). However, some areas can feel crowded: "The sites would have been rather close to each other if they were full." (Review by ASHLEY R).
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with individual water hookups for convenience. Site 16 is prone to muddy conditions during rain.
Best CampsitesPopular reviews mention sites 22, 25, and 31 for privacy and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 nights in a 30-day period
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to 8 individuals.
Groups
No group sites are explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites include tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some sites require walk-ins.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 11 - October 12, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnreserved campsites available within 4 days of arrival as first-come, first-serve. Some sites explicitly labeled as first-come-first-serve.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground supports a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Popular trails include the 8-mile Lake Shore Trail and the shorter trail leading to Rock House Cave. "More than 40 miles of trails exist in the area, with trailheads beginning at or near the campground." (Authoritative Content). Fishing in Lake Vesuvius offers opportunities to catch bass, catfish, crappie, or bluegill. Boating and swimming are also popular options. Wildlife enthusiasts have noted the abundance of birds and small mammals: "Our camping trip was great even with out running water. The site was very clean and comfortable little ground squirrels, birds and the occasional squirrel made it a nice weekend." (Review by JEANETTE D).
Hiking
The campground provides access to over 40 miles of trails, including the 8-mile Lake Shore Trail around Lake Vesuvius and a shorter trail to Rock House Cave. Trails are well-marked: "The trails are marked better these days as well." (Review by BAILEY A). Hiking options cater to varying skill levels and interests, with some trails leading to historical and natural attractions.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Lake Vesuvius, with anglers targeting bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. "Anglers may catch bass, catfish, crappie or bluegill." (Authoritative Content). The lake provides a scenic backdrop for fishing, and it is accessible from the campground.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Lake Vesuvius, but the beach was closed during one user's visit: "The beach was closed." (Review by JUSTIN H). The lake is still accessible for other water activities like canoeing and kayaking.Boating
Lake Vesuvius is suitable for boating, and rentals for kayaks and canoes are available. "The lake is gorgeous and you can rent kayaks and canoes at the boat dock." (Review by REBECCA B).Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas offer good opportunities for wildlife viewing. "Excellent hiking and camping area. Great place for viewing wildlife." (Review by Susan Vernatter). Common sightings include birds and ground squirrels.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, though the campground is accessible year-round.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are available on Lake Vesuvius, with rentals accessible at the boat dock.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire wood must be sourced locally. Rules discourage noise and excessive disturbances.
- Quiet hours are Enforced quiet hours. Complaints about hosts not enforcing rules at times.
Hazards
General hazardsCold water showers, muddy RV pads during rainfall, and steep terrain at certain campsites.
Active alertsCold water in bathhouses and closures of certain amenities during specific times.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 90%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 11, 2025 - October 12, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but one user noted a need for more trash cans: "I do wish for two things more trash cans and fire wood sales." (Review by JEANETTE D).
Proximity to water featuresClose to Lake Vesuvius; trails provide access to the lake and Rock House Cave.
Common complaintsBathhouses with cold water, lack of Wi-Fi, and limited firewood options. Some campsites have maintenance issues such as leaking water hydrants.
HostCamp host 'Mark' noted as helpful in maintaining the campground.
Campground Map
6518 State Route 93
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 52 at Ironton, take State Route 93 north for 6 miles to the Lake Vesuvius Road (County Road 29). Turn east toward Lake Vesuvius and travel 1 mile to the recreation area.
Road access quality includes paved roads from major highways. Seasonal weather and muddy conditions can sometimes impact portions of the campground roadways.Nearby places
Ironton, Ohio (less than 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Ironton, Ohio (less than 10 miles away) offers supplies, groceries, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.2
43 reviews
Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Iron Ridge Campground are predominantly positive, highlighting its natural beauty, spacious sites, and recreational activities. Common praises include the well-maintained facilities and the peaceful environment. Criticisms center around maintenance issues, such as out-of-order bathrooms and lack of hot water in showers. Several reviews also express frustration over the lack of on-site firewood sales and the absence of Wi-Fi.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
- "Beautiful campground with ample room on campsites." (Review by A Piper)
- "Great level spots, fire pit, picnic table, asphalt parking for small RVs and vehicle parking near tent sites." (Review by...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- "There is no hot water in the bathhouses!" (Review by ROBERT H)
- "Interior roads are dangerous with non-forgiving low shoulders and non-existing signage or delineators." (Review by GERALD B)
- "On...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- "Bring sanitizer or your own hand soap though. There was none in our bathroom." (Review by Alex B)
- "Do not forget to bring your own firewood as it is not sold on-site." (Authoritative Content and...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer reviews praise the hiking trails and water activities, but also note maintenance issues like water spigot leaks (Review by WALTER F). Fall reviews highlight the scenic beauty and...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Beautiful campground with many widely separated, private campsites." (Review by WALTER F)
- "The camp host is very nice and helpful. Well-maintained campground." (Review by Goldie Canter)
- "The...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 16: "Great disappointment because the RV pad becomes a very big muddy mess when it rains." (Review by A Piper)
- Site 22: "Beautiful view down ravine, level but narrow pad, water hydrant had...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
- "Interior roads are dangerous with non-forgiving low shoulders and non-existing signage or delineators." (Review by GERALD B)
- "Showers are free but cold water only." (General user sentiment)
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, but no specific reviews address pet-focused amenities.
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement