Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius
4.5063 reviews916 COUNTY ROAD 29, PEDRO, OH 45659, USA
Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees are $20 per night for electric sites (Standard and RV Electric). Fees include a $15 basic camping fee plus a $5 electrical charge.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Wayne National Forest, Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. Whether you're rolling in with an RV or pitching a tent beneath towering trees, you'll find all the amenities you need—from hot showers and flush toilets to convenient electrical hookups. The campground serves as your gateway to adventure, with the pristine 143-acre Lake Vesuvius at your doorstep offering excellent fishing and boating opportunities, while miles of scenic trails wind through the surrounding forest, waiting to be explored.
Oak Hill Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping with full hookups, and group camping. The campground has paved and spacious sites, making it suitable for a range of visitors.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the area's rich heritage along the nearby Rock House Trail, where ancient cave formations once served as shelter and hideouts for Native American peoples. These natural sanctuaries, carved by centuries of wind and water, stand as silent witnesses to the region's indigenous history, offering modern visitors a tangible connection to those who first called these forests home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Ohio's seasons at Oak Hill, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring arrives with wildflowers and mild temperatures perfect for hiking, while summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and fishing, though afternoon thunderstorms may roll through to cool things down. Fall transforms the forest into a spectacular display of reds, oranges, and golds, creating unforgettable camping memories. Winter blankets the area in serene beauty, with snow occasionally dusting the landscape and creating a peaceful retreat for hardy cold-weather campers.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain makes it accessible for campers of all abilities, with sites thoughtfully positioned to take advantage of the natural landscape's subtle contours.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a stunning tapestry of mixed hardwood and pine forest, where majestic oak trees—some centuries old—create a living cathedral overhead. The campground hugs the western shore of Lake Vesuvius, a 143-acre jewel that mirrors the sky and surrounding forest canopy. Morning mist often dances across the water's surface, while evenings bring spectacular sunsets that paint the lake in shades of gold and crimson. The diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife, from songbirds serenading at dawn to deer quietly grazing at dusk.
Geological RegionSituated within Wayne National Forest's diverse ecosystem, the campground rests in a unique geological pocket where ancient hardwood forests merge seamlessly with pine groves. The 143-acre Lake Vesuvius, created by damming a natural valley, has transformed the landscape into a water-lover's paradise while preserving the region's characteristic Appalachian foothills topography. This convergence of forest, water, and rolling terrain creates a microclimate that supports an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible amenities such as flush and vault toilets, accessible grills, and paved sites that accommodate individuals with disabilities. Group sites support up to 50 people.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, accommodating up to eight people per site. Group sites can host up to 50 individuals.
Sites PrivacySite privacy is considered good, with a mix of wooded and open areas. Some sites are described as 'very secluded,' while others are noted to be reasonably spaced.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Site 5 for larger travel trailers due to challenging layout. Site 23 offers spacious privacy. Site 15 is noted for peace and quiet.
Best CampsitesSite 15, Site 23, and Site 5 are highly recommended for peace, space, and lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights during a visit, with a cap of 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite accommodates up to eight individuals.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 50 people, providing ample space for large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground features loops such as White Oak, Scarlet Oak, and Pine Knob. Sites are paved and spacious.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 11, 2025 - October 12, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis within the 4-day reservation cut-off window.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. There is a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeitures for late cancellations, which include the first night's camping fees.
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
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a wide array of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. Lake Vesuvius is the centerpiece of activities, providing opportunities for anglers, kayakers, and swimmers. The area also includes a network of over 40 miles of hiking trails.
Hiking
The area features over 40 miles of hiking trails, with some trailheads beginning directly within the campground. Trails include a spur connecting to Rock House Trail, which leads to a historic cave used by Native Americans.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with Lake Vesuvius offering opportunities to catch bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. Reviews frequently mention the lake as a peaceful and scenic spot for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is available at designated areas of Lake Vesuvius. Some reviews note that the beach and lake could benefit from better water clarity and maintenance.Boating
The lake is restricted to electric motors, making it an excellent location for canoeing and kayaking. Boat rentals are available on-site.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by a mixed hardwood-pine forest, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife such as birds and small mammals.Beach activities
The beach area provides opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and picnics. Reviews suggest room for improvement in beach maintenance.Winter Activities
No information available about winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular non-motorized water sports at Lake Vesuvius.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed, provided firewood is sourced locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are Evenings are described as quiet and peaceful; specific hours not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsLake restricted to electric motors only for safety. Some trails may be steep or rugged. Wildlife such as turkeys and deer are common.
Active alertsWater availability has been inconsistent; repairs are ongoing.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Not explicitly mentioned for hospitals or police, but ranger services are available on-site.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 11, 2025 - October 12, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but no specific information on recycling options or pickup schedules is provided.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Lake Vesuvius, a 143-acre lake. Activities include fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
Common complaintsComplaints include inconsistent water access, cleanliness of front shower/restrooms, and specific campsite setup challenges.
HostCamp hosts John and Pauline Wilson are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
916 COUNTY ROAD 29, PEDRO, OH 45659, USA
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 52 at Ironton, take State Route 93 north for 9 miles to the Lake Vesuvius Road (County Road 29). Turn east toward Lake Vesuvius and travel 1 mile to the recreation area.
Accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures or specific road hazards are not mentioned.Nearby places
Ironton, Ohio (less than 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest town for supplies is Ironton, Ohio, less than 10 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
63 reviews
Oak Hill - Lake Vesuvius is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Oak Hill Campground is highly praised for its scenic beauty, well-maintained facilities, and recreational opportunities. Reviews frequently mention the campground's serene environment and spacious, well-shaded sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 63 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean restrooms, spacious campsites, friendly staff, and peaceful atmosphere. 'This is one of the most beautiful places I've camped,' noted a reviewer. Another highlighted the...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback often focuses on inconsistencies in restroom cleanliness, lack of hot water, and occasional issues with campsite maintenance. A user mentioned, 'The front showers were not so...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend choosing sites near the back for cleaner facilities, bringing additional leveling blocks for uneven spots, and exploring the Rock House Trail for a unique experience.
Based on 63 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit, with pleasant weather and vibrant colors enhancing the experience. Summer weekends can get crowded, while winters see minimal activity due to...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'This campground/area is sooo beautiful! I love the boardwalk!' - Goldie Canter. - 'Nice sites and beautiful scenery. Water and electric at all sites. Very quiet and peaceful.' - Kathy Patton. -...
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Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 15 is described as a favorite for its peacefulness. - Site 23 offers plenty of space and privacy. - Site 5 is noted for its challenging layout for larger RVs but excellent shade coverage.
Based on 63 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews frequently highlight accessible features such as paved sites and accessible restroom facilities. 'The campground hosts were helpful, especially with my elderly parents,' noted one user.
Based on 63 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but leashes are required. Reviews mention ample space for pets to roam within campground rules.
Based on 63 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025