The Wayne National Forest is located in southeastern Ohio in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is comprised of 178,000 acres. There are seven developed campgrounds.

Over 25,000 acres of Monroe County land concentrated mostly in the southern section of the county is part of Wayne National Forest. Beautiful streams and lakes and opportunities everywhere for hunting, fishing, camping and hiking.

The Wayne National Forest is made up three separate, noncontiguous districts and are unique to themselves. The Ironton District located farthest south contains the Vesuvius Recreation Area and is the most developed of the three. Lake Vesuvius offers not only comfortable camping facilities but horse trails, boating, fishing, and swimming. Southwest of Lake Vesuvius, at Hanging Rock, is a system of off-road vehicle trails.

Located northeast of Ironton District and adjacent to the Ohio River, is the Marietta District. Here the forest conveys the brawny feel of the Ohio River. The flora is thicker, wilder, less welcoming than in the other districts. Marietta District does not discourage you from visiting but it should be on its terms.

The Athens District, third and most centrally located, is a transition from the brawny power of southern Ohio and the tranquility of the farmland located to the north. Much less developed than the other two districts, the Athens District offers wonderful opportunities for hikers and off-road vehicles.

Each District has an individuality that makes the Wayne appear to be three forests instead of one.