Harrison State Forest Boondocking In Cadiz, OH – Essential Guide for Off-Grid Camping

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Harrison State Forest Boondocking In Cadiz, OH
Essential Guide for Off-Grid Camping

Previous Reviews:

Harrison State Forest Boondocking: The road in is Paved. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. You might have a park ranger or wildlife officer stop by the camp to chat but don’t expect to see them very often. Small/medium sized RVs can fit – not sure exactly how long the paved spots are though. I camp here in my van or a tent.

There’s hand pumped water (unless the pump is frozen during the winter) and latrines. I bring my own drinking/cooking water – the ground water is polluted from strip mining, and will probably get worse with all the fracking being done in the area.

About This Location

If you’re hunting for a quiet place to camp where you don’t have to shell out any money, Harrison State Forest boondocking area in Cadiz, Ohio, might be just what you’re after. You can camp for free in several spots within the forest, and there are basic perks like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault latrines.

The forest is pretty easy to find—just north of Cadiz and close to State Route 9. The camping spots are simple, tucked right up against nature, and far from the crowds.

Whether you’re rolling in with a tent or a little trailer, you’ll probably find a spot that works. It’s a practical pick if you want free, no-frills camping in Ohio.

Harrison State Forest Boondocking In Cadiz, OH

Looking for a quiet, cost-free camp? Harrison State Forest boondocking area, just outside Cadiz, Ohio, has free boondocking about three miles north of town, near State Route 9.

The forest keeps things simple with basic campsites. There are two main campgrounds, both offering picnic tables, fire rings, and vault latrines.

You won’t find electrical or water hookups here, so you’ll want to bring your own supplies for off-grid camping. At Ronsheim Campground, there’s no need to book ahead—just fill out a self-registration slip when you arrive.

The area is quiet, surrounded by forest, and honestly, it’s great for hiking or just soaking in the peace.

Campsites are marked by small wooden posts with a tree and arrow on them. The roads leading in are close to Route 22, but you won’t see many signs along the way.

You’ll probably want to rely on GPS or a map to get there. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting a free camping experience in a natural spot close to Cadiz.

Directions

To find Harrison State Forest boondocking area in Cadiz, OH, start by locating Cadiz in Harrison County. The forest sits around three miles north of town, just east of State Route 9.

Once you’re near Cadiz, take County Road 13 north. The main part of the forest is north of this road.

There are also smaller patches of forest south of County Road 13. Coming from Route 22? Watch for those wooden posts with a tree and arrow—they’ll point you to the campsites.

If you need a reference, the forest’s management office is at 11 Township Road 181 in Bloomingdale, Ohio. That’s not far away if you get turned around.

GPS coordinates for the area are roughly 40.3343 latitude and -80.7642 longitude. Roads into the forest are paved, so bigger rigs or trailers shouldn’t have much trouble.

The forest is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. If you’re planning to camp or fish overnight, just make sure you stick to the posted rules and hours.

Vehicle Access And Pricing

You can get to Harrison State Forest boondocking area by vehicle without much hassle. The main road leading into the campground is paved, so most cars, trucks, and even RVs should be fine.

You’ll spot clear signs and directions from State Route 9, just a bit north of Cadiz, OH. Honestly, it’s hard to get lost if you’re paying attention.

Parking rules matter here. Vehicles can’t block traffic or block off forest service roads.

This isn’t just a suggestion—following these keeps things running smoothly and safe for everyone else trying to get around.

Trailriders Campground is the main place to set up camp in Harrison State Forest boondocking area. If you want the latest scoop on pricing, availability, or any quirky rules, give them a call at 877-247-8733.

Right now, there are fees for camping at Trailriders Campground. The price can change depending on the season or which campsite you pick.

Be ready to pay when you roll in or if you book ahead—nobody likes surprises.

If you’re more into the free camping scene, there are a few boondocking spots tucked away in the forest. These are pretty bare-bones, with no amenities and spotty cell service at best.

Definitely check the local rules before you set up shop, though—things can change.

Helpful Boondocking Information Links:

Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace

State Specific Information Links

Ohio Park Service
Ohio Fish and Wildlife