Lamping Homestead Recreation Area

4.19

26 reviews

27515 State Route 7, Marietta, OH 45750

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazing

Quick Facts

755 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Athens Ranger District - Marietta Unit Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

755 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Athens Ranger District - Marietta Unit Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Lamping Homestead Recreation Area

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Use: Single Site $10/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass...

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

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USFS

Provider

(740) 373-9055Null

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What Campers Say

4.19

Satisfactory

Based on 26 reviews

63 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanlocationwell-maintained

Some mention

crowdedmosquitoes

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

27515 State Route 7, Marietta, OH 45750

Lamping Homestead Recreation Area

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

Best Time to Camp at Lamping Homestead Recreation Area

Experience 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Lush summer scenery and wildlife but ticks and mosquitoes are frequent complaints.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in OH

Fall praised for cooler weather and beautiful foliage; noted as a popular season in reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring is lush with wildlife, though ticks and mosquitoes are noted as downsides.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Top 4% in OH

Winter offers a 'crystalline' landscape but brings cold challenges and fewer amenities/activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Null
Current Alerts: One 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.

About Lamping Homestead Recreation Area

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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Null

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground has six walk-in campsites near a pond and eight picnic sites.

Reservation PlatformsNull

Walk-in AvailabilitySites 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

AccessibilityThe campground features walk-in sites, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility impairments. Accessibility-specific options are not explicitly noted.

Site 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.

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 SitesBring your own water as there is none available onsite." "A wagon is recommended to carry supplies from parking to campsites.

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.

HikingThe 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.

FishingFishing 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.

BikingA 5-mile trail is designated for mountain biking. However, the trails are seasonally closed to mountain bike use from winter to early spring.

BoatingNon-motorized boating is permitted on the 2-acre pond. There are no launch ramps, so boats must be small enough to carry.

Wildlife viewingWildlife 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

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser 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.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyEach campsite has a fire ring with an attached cooking grate.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Null

Emergency ServicesAthens Ranger District - Marietta Unit Office (Address: 27515 State Route 7, Marietta, OH 45750, Phone: (740) 373-9055).

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are available on-site. Recycling facilities or specific collection schedules are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is near a 2-acre pond stocked with bluegill, bass, and catfish. A creek runs alongside the hiking trail.

Camp HostNull

Weather at Lamping Homestead Recreation Area

Reviews

4.2

26 reviews

Satisfactory

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 reviews

Common 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 reviews

Pro 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 reviews

Seasonal 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 reviews

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 reviews

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 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews from users with disabilities were found.

Based on 26 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences were identified.

Based on 26 reviews

0 review

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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