Campers should pay close attention to what is permissible in any given campground or area. The types of fires allowed, which may be built for warmth and cooking, vary according to location. Make sure to bring secure food containers to prevent the smell from attracting wildlife. While coyote and bear sightings are rare, they do happen; campers should take necessary precautions when storing food and when disposing of feminine menstrual products. Food should be stored inside a vehicle or camper whenever possible.
Prepare for the elements, as the weather can change unrepentantly in Ohio. Pack jackets and sweatshirts, along with rain gear. Solid walking boots are necessary for walking around campsites and when utilizing the hiking trails. Flashlights and a first aid kit are also recommended for Hocking Hills campers. Bug spray and over-the-counter medication to treat stings is advisable to bring along.
Emergency medical services respond frequently to camping and hiking accidents, but the remote campsites cause logistical problems for first responders. When an injury occurs in a wooded area or on a trail, emergency workers must first locate the individual, and then rush the injured party out of the area on an all terrain vehicle or on a backboard, with the help of additional workers.
Saving the memories of a Hocking Hills camping trip requires a camera and extra batteries. A campground store, if available, may carry general batteries, but not digital camera specialty or high-speed camera cards. Internet access is severely limited, but a few wi-fi hot spots do exist near the Lodge at Old Man's Cave and at restaurants in the city of Logan. Disposable cameras can be purchased at camp stores and at most area convenience stores.
Prepare rainy day activities for children, such as coloring books and board games. Naturalist programs at the Hocking Hills State Park often provide free activity books and "Jr. Naturalist" kits for youngsters. Plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities exist in the Hocking Hills. Visitors should bring a basketball, volleyball, tennis gear and swimming flotation devices if planning to make use of the courts and lake areas. Boat and kayak rentals are available at Lake Hope State Park and at Lake Logan, and life jackets are provided.
