Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area
4.4137 reviewsIRONTON RANGER DISTRICT, 6518 STATE ROUTE 93, PEDRO, OH 45659, USA
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area
$35.00 - $52.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary depending on site type and season. Group Shelter Electric ($52), Group Shelter Nonelectric ($42), Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric ($35). Additional reservation fees apply.
About this campground
Discover the crown jewel of Wayne National Forest at Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, where a stunning 143-acre lake mirrors the surrounding forest canopy. This outdoor paradise seamlessly blends adventure and tranquility, offering miles of winding hiking trails, spacious group camping facilities, and breathtaking vistas that change with every season. Whether you're paddling across the peaceful waters or gathering around a campfire with friends, Lake Vesuvius creates memories that last a lifetime.
The campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including developed family campgrounds, a group campsite for up to 50 people, and group picnic shelters accommodating up to 150 people.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the base of the dam, where the historic Vesuvius iron furnace stands as a testament to Ohio's industrial heritage. This remarkably preserved relic tells the story of the region's transformation from wilderness to industrial powerhouse, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the lives of 19th-century ironworkers who once filled these hills with the glow of their furnaces and the ring of their hammers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Ohio's seasons at Lake Vesuvius, where each brings its own unique charm. Winter transforms the landscape into a crisp wonderland with temperatures hovering around 30°F, perfect for peaceful solitude. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather, while autumn paints the hills in brilliant golds and crimsons. Summer invites you to dive into warm days ideal for swimming and boating, with refreshing afternoon showers that keep the forest lush and green.
ElevationNestled within the rolling embrace of Wayne National Forest's rugged hills, Lake Vesuvius occupies a natural bowl carved by ancient geological forces. The varied terrain creates intimate valleys and scenic overlooks, offering constantly changing perspectives as you explore the winding trails that climb and descend through this beautifully forested landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at Lake Vesuvius, where dramatic rock outcroppings rise from dense forest floors and Storms Creek tumbles over ancient stones. The centerpiece 143-acre lake, created by damming the creek, reflects the surrounding hills like a giant mirror. Weathered sandstone formations provide natural sculptures throughout the forest, while the historic iron furnace adds a touch of human history to this wild canvas.
Geological RegionCarved into the ancient Appalachian foothills of Wayne National Forest, Lake Vesuvius showcases the region's dramatic geological story. Massive sandstone outcroppings reveal millions of years of Earth's history, while Storms Creek continues its patient work of shaping the landscape. The 143-acre lake, formed by human ingenuity working with natural contours, has become an integral part of this rugged terrain, creating a perfect harmony between the wild hills and tranquil waters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include vault toilets, flush toilets, and a 1/3-mile boardwalk by the lake for leisurely strolls.
Sites Privacy"Campground spaces are level and paved, but they lack privacy," according to one user review.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers suggest Site 15 for its favorable location and features.
Best CampsitesSite 15 is noted as a favorite by users.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights, up to 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites can accommodate up to 50 tent campers.
Groups
Group campsites can accommodate up to 50 people for tent camping, equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo family campgrounds, group camp areas, and picnic shelters.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 11 to October 12.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnreserved sites within 4 days of arrival are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, but may be limited depending on prior reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Group reservations canceled within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fee entirely.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can engage in a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and archery. The area includes over 25 miles of hiking trails, 45 miles of horseback riding trails, and a swimming beach at Big Bend. A 1/3-mile accessible boardwalk and a 1/2-mile Longbow Archery Trail are popular features alongside a large playing field and a fishing pier.
Hiking
More than 25 miles of trails are available with varied difficulty levels, ranging from short boardwalks to multi-day backpacking routes. "Amazing trails! Clean and well-kept," said one user review.Fishing
Fishing is allowed at Lake Vesuvius, with common species including bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. A user review highlights that "fishing is getting better every year."Swimming
Swimming is available at the Big Bend beach, though some user reviews have noted that it is occasionally closed.Boating
Boating is popular and supported by a boat ramp. The entire lake is a no-wake zone, and kayak rentals are available from an on-site business called Kountry Kayaks.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is not explicitly detailed but is implied given the natural setting and user reviews describing the area's scenic beauty.Beach activities
Beach activities are focused on the Big Bend swimming beach. However, multiple user reviews noted that the beach is sometimes closed.Winter Activities
Not detailed, though the campground is noted for its peacefulness in off-season visits.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular, with rentals available on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed, but firewood must be sourced locally to prevent invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area includes snakes, uneven terrain on hiking trails, and occasional fallen trees (as noted by one user).
Active alertsBeach access was reported closed in recent reviews. Additional closure notices may apply.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital, police station, and emergency services located in Ironton, OH (approx. 10 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 11 - October 12.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available, though cleanliness and maintenance could vary. One review mentioned issues with trash in the group shelter area.
Proximity to water features143-acre lake on Storms Creek, with beach access, a boat ramp, and scenic overlooks.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of signage for directions, beach closures, and cleanliness issues in some picnic areas.
Campground Map
IRONTON RANGER DISTRICT, 6518 STATE ROUTE 93, PEDRO, OH 45659, USA
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 52 at Ironton, take State Route 93 north for less than 10 miles to Lake Vesuvius Road (County Road 29). Turn east toward Lake Vesuvius and travel 1 mile to the recreation area.
Access via paved roads from State Route 93 and County Road 29. Roads are generally accessible for most vehicles, but user reviews mention limited signage and difficulties turning around RVs.Nearby places
Ironton (10 miles, approx. 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The closest town for groceries, fuel, and supplies is Ironton, OH, approximately 10 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
37 reviews
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, variety of activities, and well-maintained trails. "Amazing trails! Clean and well-kept," said one user review. However, issues like lack of signage and occasional cleanliness concerns were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the clean trails, variety of activities, and serene environment. "It's a great place to kayak. The entire lake is a no-wake zone."
Based on 37 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include cleanliness issues at group shelters, lack of privacy at campsites, and beach closures. One reviewer mentioned, "The place was absolutely disgusting...trash everywhere."
Based on 37 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as noted by one reviewer. Users also recommend visiting during off-season for a quieter experience. "We went off-season and virtually had the park to ourselves."
Based on 37 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is popular for swimming and kayaking, but the beach closure can be an issue. Off-season is noted for peacefulness and fewer visitors.
Based on 37 reviewsCamper Quotes
"A perfect place if you are looking for wilderness, hikes, boating, picnic, trails, and beach enjoyment." -Tripty Fnu. "The place was absolutely disgusting...trash everywhere." -Lisa M.
Based on 37 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 15 was highlighted as a favorite by one reviewer. Another reviewer complained about the lack of signage leading to the campground.
Based on 37 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible amenities include vault and flush toilets, as well as a 1/3-mile boardwalk. Reviews frequently mention the cleanliness and maintenance of these facilities.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. "Bring your little furry one!" was noted in a user review.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025