The Wilds, a conservation and adventure park in Ohio, has officially reopened for the summer season and is now offering even more reasons for guests to visit.
According to an article by The Columbus Dispatch, last May 30, the park launched the Hellbender RV Campground, a brand-new 75-acre site designed to bring visitors closer to nature while supporting the park’s conservation mission.
Guests to The Wilds can explore the expansive landscape through a variety of safari experiences, including the Open-Air Safari tour, the Wildside Safari tour, and the Zipline Safari tour.
For those seeking something different, the park also offers Fishing Safari excursions, Horseback Safari sunset rides, and birding opportunities that showcase the region’s biodiversity.
The newest addition for 2025 is the Hellbender Campground, which features 47 full-service RV sites and 26 primitive camping spots, along with hiking and biking trails, a playground, a camp store, a dog park, and more.
Named after the endangered Hellbender salamander—North America’s largest amphibian and native to Ohio—the campground is intended as both a tribute to local wildlife and a tool for environmental education.
“The Wilds has always been a place where conservation and adventure come together, and we are incredibly excited to open the Hellbender RV Campground this season,” said The Wilds’ vice president, Dr. Joe Smith.
“This new experience will provide our guests with even more opportunities to connect with nature while celebrating a remarkable Ohio species whose resilience mirrors the mission of The Wilds.
Whether you’re camping under the stars, exploring our pastures, or learning about our conservation work, there is truly something for everyone.”
Located at the intersection of state Route 146 and Zion Ridge Road, not far from The Wilds, the campground is expected to welcome around 35,000 visitors annually, according to a press release.
The opening of the Hellbender RV Campground marks a significant moment for the campground industry. As demand for immersive, nature-centered travel continues to rise, this development reflects a broader trend toward integrating outdoor recreation with conservation education.