Lamping Homestead Recreation Area
4.1926 reviews27515 State Route 7, Marietta, OH 45750
Lamping Homestead Recreation Area
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight Use: Single Site $10/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass holder. Payments must be made via cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Ohio's rolling hills, Lamping Homestead Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking an escape from the everyday. This hidden gem features six intimate walk-in campsites that promise genuine solitude, complemented by eight picnic sites perfect for afternoon gatherings. Adventure awaits on two scenic loop trails—choose between a leisurely 1.5-mile stroll or challenge yourself with the 3.5-mile trek through diverse forest terrain. At the heart of it all lies a tranquil 2-acre pond, regularly stocked for anglers dreaming of the perfect catch. Here, where the Lamping family once carved out their 19th-century homestead, modern visitors discover a sanctuary where history whispers through the pines and time moves at nature's pace.
The Lamping Homestead Recreation Area focuses on primitive camping, with walk-in sites and no access to potable water or electricity. It is ideal for campers seeking a secluded, off-grid experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this remarkable intersection of American frontier history and ancient heritage. The Lamping family's 1800s homestead tells a story of determination and dreams, where German immigrants transformed wilderness into a thriving farm. Today, remnants of their legacy blend with an even older narrative—a cemetery resting atop a Native American burial mound serves as a poignant reminder that this land has been sacred to many peoples across countless generations. This layering of histories creates a profound sense of place that touches every visitor.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Ohio's changing seasons at Lamping Homestead. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though visitors should prepare for crisp temperatures dipping to 23°F and rarely climbing above 45°F—perfect for those who find magic in frost-kissed mornings. As spring awakens the forest, temperatures climb into comfortable ranges, leading to glorious summers where 86°F days invite swimming in the pond and lazy afternoons beneath shady trees. The air shifts from winter's dry clarity to summer's occasional muggy embrace, each season painting the homestead in new colors and moods.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape that seems painted by nature's finest artist. The centerpiece—a mirror-like lake reflecting towering pines—creates an almost magical atmosphere of tranquility. Behind this serene water feature, forested hills roll toward the horizon in waves of green, their slopes hiding secret hollows and sun-dappled glades. Wildlife thrives in this protected haven: majestic white-tailed deer emerge at dawn and dusk, wild turkeys strut through meadow edges, and the forest resonates with the melodies of countless songbirds. Patient observers might spot playful squirrels and rabbits, while the observant will discover a fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians that call these woods home.
Geological RegionLamping Homestead rests within the embrace of Wayne National Forest, where ancient geological forces sculpted a masterpiece of rolling hills and hidden valleys. This corner of the forest showcases the region's characteristic topography—gentle ridges carpeted in mixed hardwoods give way to stands of stately pines surrounding the campground's pristine 2-acre pond. The interplay of water, forest, and folded earth creates a diverse ecosystem that represents the very best of Ohio's hill country, offering visitors a chance to explore the subtle beauty of the Appalachian foothills.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features walk-in sites, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility impairments. Accessibility-specific options are not explicitly noted.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally large, with enough space to accommodate tents up to a size of 13’ x 13’, as noted by one user review.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a significant amount of privacy, with reviewers mentioning the abundance of secluded areas ideal for a peaceful camping experience.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Bring your own water as there is none available onsite." "A wagon is recommended to carry supplies from parking to campsites."
Best CampsitesUser reviews describe diverse campsites with privacy and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has six walk-in campsites near a pond and eight picnic sites.
Open and Closed SeasonNull
Reservation PlatformsNull
Walk-in Availability"Sites may be reservable and reservation fees apply." User reviews indicate Friday evenings may be very crowded, with most sites taken by 5 PM during nice weather.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Lamping Homestead Recreation Area can engage in a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and picnicking. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with a tranquil pond and picturesque trails surrounded by rolling forested hills. It is also a popular spot for astrophotography due to its dark skies.
Hiking
The campground features two loop trails: a shorter 1.5-mile trail and a longer 3.5-mile trail. Reviewers note the trails provide decent elevation changes, scenic views of the pond, and a sense of being deep in the woods. However, some users have reported overgrowth and stinging nettles on the trails, so preparation is advised.Fishing
Fishing is supported at the 2-acre pond, which is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing can be done from the shore or from non-motorized craft small enough to carry to the water.Biking
A 5-mile trail is designated for mountain biking. However, the trails are seasonally closed to mountain bike use from winter to early spring.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted on the 2-acre pond. There are no launch ramps, so boats must be small enough to carry.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen includes white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, rabbits, forest songbirds, and various reptiles and amphibians. The area is noted for its abundance of wildlife and is recommended for binocular use.Winter Activities
The campground does not provide specific winter recreation options, though trails may be seasonally closed for certain activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities such as canoeing and kayaking are possible on the pond, which is small and tranquil.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each campsite has a fire ring with an attached cooking grate.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews highlight ticks, mosquitoes, and stinging nettles on overgrown trails as significant issues.
Active alertsOne user review from 2020 mentions that the site was closed indefinitely despite official listings stating otherwise. However, authoritative data confirms the site is currently open.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Athens Ranger District - Marietta Unit Office (Address: 27515 State Route 7, Marietta, OH 45750, Phone: (740) 373-9055).
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available on-site. Recycling facilities or specific collection schedules are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near a 2-acre pond stocked with bluegill, bass, and catfish. A creek runs alongside the hiking trail.
Common complaintsReviews mention ticks, mosquitoes, crowded conditions during peak times, overgrown trails, and lack of potable water.
HostNull
Campground Map
27515 State Route 7, Marietta, OH 45750
Driving directionsThis campground is located on S.R. 537, 2 miles from S.R. 26 (approximately 35 miles from Marietta).
The campground is accessible via State Routes with the final stretch being on S.R. 537. User reviews highlight that GPS directions should be available offline as there is no cell service near the campground.Nearby places
Marietta (35 miles, approx. driving time not specified)
Nearby supplies
Null
Camper Reviews
4.2
26 reviews
Lamping Homestead Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews highlight the campground’s tranquility, scenic beauty, and suitability for stargazing and primitive camping. However, some reviewers noted issues such as ticks, mosquitoes, and overgrown trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the remote and peaceful location, dark skies for astrophotography, scenic trails with good elevation changes, and the clean, well-maintained facilities.
Based on 26 reviewsCommon Concerns
Concerns included overgrown trails, stinging nettles, mosquitoes, ticks, lack of potable water, and zero cell service. One user also reported an unpleasant experience with law enforcement.
Based on 26 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing potable water, arriving early to secure a site, wearing long pants for hiking, and bringing tick spray. Offline GPS directions are also advised due to lack of cell service.
Based on 26 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and summer are noted for lush scenery and wildlife, but also for ticks and mosquitoes. Fall offers cooler weather and beautiful foliage, making it a popular season. Winter presents challenges...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "The dark skies here boast a beautiful view of the Milky Way, the best in Ohio." - Tim Long
- "Truly a hidden Ohio gem!" - Jordan G
- "Bring your own water - there is no potable water on site." -...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific comments indicate that sites are large and diverse, with each featuring a fire ring and picnic table. Some users noted that the sites near the pond are more prone to mosquitoes.
Based on 26 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities were found.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences were identified.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025