Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius

4.23

128 reviews

6518 State Route 93

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsStargazingSummer Destination

Featured in:Tent Camping Ohio

Quick Facts

801 ft

Price

$15 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Open April 11 - Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Wayne National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

801 ft

Price

$15 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Open April 11 - Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Wayne National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

740-534-6500

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What Campers Say

4.23

Satisfactory

Based on 128 reviews

27 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanhikinglake

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

6518 State Route 93

Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius

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.

Best Time to Camp at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius

Summer 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Warm days ideal for lake swimming, boating and hiking; reviews praise summer activities.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in OH

Fall reviews highlight spectacular colors and scenic quiet — peak scenic season.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring reviews praise hiking and water activities though a few maintenance issues noted.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside Apr 11 - Oct 12 season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 11, 2025 - October 12, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open April 11 - October 12, 2025.
Current Alerts: Cold water in bathhouses and closures of certain amenities during specific times.

About Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius

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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites include tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some sites require walk-ins.

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.

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).

Site 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).

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 SitesChoose sites with individual water hookups for convenience. Site 16 is prone to muddy conditions during rain.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

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).

HikingThe 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.

FishingFishing 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.

SwimmingSwimming 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.

BoatingLake 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 viewingThe 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

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCold 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.

Fire PolicyCampfire wood must be sourced locally. Rules discourage noise and excessive disturbances.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Enforced quiet hours. Complaints about hosts not enforcing rules at times.

Trash & 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).

Water FeaturesClose to Lake Vesuvius; trails provide access to the lake and Rock House Cave.

Camp HostCamp host 'Mark' noted as helpful in maintaining the campground.

Weather at Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius

Reviews

4.2

128 reviews

Satisfactory

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 128 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 128 reviews

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 128 reviews

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 128 reviews

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 128 reviews

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 128 reviews

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 128 reviews

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 128 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are permitted, but no specific reviews address pet-focused amenities.

Based on 128 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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