Luke Chute Boondocking In Waterford, OH
Essential Guide and Tips
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Waterford, OH GPS: 39.53804, -81.72007 Elevation: 656′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – ODNR dept. of Watercraft (Official)This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Luke Chute Boondocking: Beautiful location & it’s FREE, no reservation. First come basis for up to 2 weeks at a time! Also, an AEP Recreation area in Waterford close by, but not sure if it’s accessible from Luke Chute, although it is accessible from the river, above Lock #5. A Historical marker is on the property, interesting!
Luke Chute is open year round. You may stay 14 days at Luke Chute. Along the Muskingum River, 5 miles from Waterford, OH ( on the river L, Beverly, OH is on river R)is Lock#5 aka Luke Chute. It is the only Lock & Dam on “The Musky”, that allows camping for people who are not doing overnight “boat thru” camping. They have outhouses and drinking fountains with a large area for tents or small campers (no hook-ups), right on the river, with much of it shaded. A local gentleman even sells firewood by the wheelbarrow reasonably priced & will deliver it directly to your site!!
About This Location
If you’re after a quiet, totally free spot to camp in Ohio, Luke Chute Boondocking near Waterford is a pretty compelling pick. It’s got a quirky claim to fame: boondocking is allowed right by the Muskingum River at Lock #5, and it’s the only lock and dam on the river where you can camp without being part of a boat trip.
You can roll up with your tent or RV and just soak up the simple, natural vibe. The place is remote and peaceful—kind of a breath of fresh air if you’re tired of packed campgrounds.
It’s close enough to Waterford if you need to grab some basics, but it still feels like you’re off-grid. Fishing, hiking, or just zoning out by the water—whatever you’re after, this spot makes it easy to get outside, and you don’t pay a dime for camping.
Luke Chute Boondocking In Waterford, OH
You’ll find Luke Chute Boondocking right along the Muskingum River in Waterford, Ohio. It’s part of Muskingum River State Park, and it’s a quiet place to camp—no hookups, just you and the outdoors.
It’s open all year, and you can stay for up to 14 days. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources manages the area, so it’s kept in decent shape.
You’ll get a mix of woods and riverbank, which makes for a scenic backdrop while you’re there. Camping is free, so if you’re watching your budget, it’s hard to beat.
Key Details:
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Luke Chute Boondocking, Waterford, OH |
| GPS Coordinates | 39.5380, -81.7200 |
| Max Stay | 14 days |
| Fees | None |
| Tent Camping | Allowed |
| RV Length Limit | 30 feet |
Just a heads up: Luke Chute Boondocking is the only lock and dam on the Muskingum River where you can camp if you’re not on an overnight boat trip. It’s got basic access, so you’ll want to bring whatever you need.
If you’re into rustic camping by the water, this spot is simple and peaceful. Waterford’s close, but it still feels like you’re tucked away in nature.
Directions
To get to Luke Chute Boondocking in Waterford, OH, start out heading toward Waterford. The spot is close to the Muskingum River and the Lock #5 Dam.
If you’re coming from Waterford, it’s about a 5-mile drive along the river. The boondocking area is just past Lock #5, which is also called Luke Chute Lock and Dam.
Plug in these GPS coordinates: 39.5381° N, 81.7209° W—they’ll get you close. Township Road 649 takes you right to the site.
The road is marked pretty well, and you’ll drive through mostly rural country. Maybe double-check Google Maps or your favorite map app for live traffic and updates.
Here’s a quick route rundown:
- Start in Waterford, OH
- Head for Township Road 649
- Drive 5 miles along the Muskingum River
- Watch for signs to Luke Chute Lock and Dam
- The boondocking spot is right by Lock #5
Local maps or MapQuest can help you check road conditions. Cell service is usually available, but it can get spotty by the river.
If the weather’s bad or there’s road work, adjust your route as you go. No one wants surprises when they’re just trying to get away for a bit.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
You can get to Luke Chute Boondocking by heading down Township Road 649 near Waterford, Ohio. Most vehicles make it just fine, RVs included.
The road and camping area can handle rigs up to 31 feet long. Not bad for a spot that’s still pretty tucked away.
If you’re thinking about bringing a boat, there’s public access to a boat ramp. That means fishing or just floating the Muskingum River is totally doable.
Camping here? It’s free. No fees for day use or overnight, which is honestly a rare treat.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources manages the site. They’ll let you stay up to 14 days, so you’ve got some wiggle room.
Here’s a quick rundown:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1095 Township Road 649 |
| Maximum RV Length | 31 feet |
| Boat Ramp | Yes |
| Cost | Free |
| Max Stay Duration | 14 days |
Just a heads-up, this is basic camping. No hookups, no services—bring your off-grid gear and make sure you pack out your trash.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Near Water | RV Parking Tent Camping Fishing Wildlife Viewing |
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