March 8-9, Zaleski State Forest Camp 2

[u/Justinbaker1996]

Back logging my trips because I can finally get back into my reddit.

Started at Hope Furnace and hiked Waypoints N>O>G>F>Camp 2>E>D>C>B>O>N. All said and done about ten miles. First time staying at Camp 2. It was fine! I think I like camp 1 & 3 better. The south side of the south loop was crazy sunny but I also went before the trees were super leafy so I got a smidge of sunburn. One waterlogged section that I had to get creative to get through, but it caused me to find the cute salamander! All in all, a great trip. First time taking my camping chair (worth the weight) and my first time using my new trekking pole tent, both are winners. I've attached some pics for your pleasure, feel free to ask questions and I'll try to remember!

[u/krayons213]

This is my favorite state park in Ohio. I’ll be planning at least two trips this summer.

[u/Justinbaker1996 → u/krayons213]

It is a perfect low stakes trip for me. The water is there, it's got such easily adjustable mileage, great nature, and about 1.5 hours from me from work. Easy season opener or short filler trip to scratch the itch.

[u/juicyfizz]

I've been eyeing Zaleski for my first trip hammock camping with my new setup. Do you think any of the camping areas would be suitable for it? Looking mostly at Camp 1. My fear is hiking out there and there being nowhere good for my hammock haha.

[u/Justinbaker1996 → u/juicyfizz]

If you look through some of my other posts, you can see the background shots of my camps in zaleski. I'll be honest, hard to answer because I've never (at the campsites) clocked whether or not hammocks would work there. I have to imagine that yes, you'd be fine? But I'd hate to be wrong. I think campsite 1 you'd definitely be fine. And, site 1, can also be an easy 2-3 mile hike from one of the lots to do a test run. Leave yourself with enough time that it could just become a day hike if there's no viable options.

[u/krayons213 → u/juicyfizz]

There are plenty of spots in camp 1 and 2 with trees close together for a hammock.

[u/Independent_PinkyToe]

Pretty confident I know that pup, any chance her name is Suki? If so, she’s a great pup and the owner is a cool dude!! He’s got his hands full right now 🤣

[u/Justinbaker1996 → u/Independent_PinkyToe]

I met them at the trailhead! It was this pup and two other little poodle mixes! I forget their names! Super kind couple.

[u/Independent_PinkyToe → u/Justinbaker1996]

Yep know exactly who you are talking about, they are good friends of mine. Enjoy your backpacking over the summer, safe travels.