NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos and b-roll can be found in this Dropbox link. Photo credits are contained in the file name (example: Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium). Video credit can be provided to The Wilds.
CUMBERLAND, OH - The Wilds is proud to announce the official name of its newest lodging experience paying homage to an unlikely species living in Ohio waterways: Hellbender RV Campground at The Wilds. This 75-acre development is set to welcome visitors in June 2025, offering a unique and immersive stay in the heart of Ohio’s premier and breathtaking wildlife preserve.
The hellbender is North America's largest amphibian. Known for their incredible ability to thrive in clean, healthy water, these “living fossils” have been around for more than 65 million years. However, the eastern hellbender is currently listed as endangered in the state of Ohio, a reminder of how vital it is to protect our natural waterways. From its legendary nickname “snot otter” to the species’ role as an indicator of a thriving ecosystem, the hellbender is the perfect symbol for this new campground.
“We’re thrilled to offer this one-of-a-kind stay that celebrates both nature and adventure," said Genelle Uhrig, director of ecology and conservation science at The Wilds. “The hellbender’s story of resilience reflects our commitment to conservation. We have many beautiful animals at The Wilds, including giraffes, greater one-horned rhinos, Przewalski’s wild horses, to name a few. Now, guests will know more about one of Ohio's most threatened species and why they are important to our ecosystem.”
The Hellbender RV Campground is designed to elevate guests’ outdoor experience. With 47 full-service RV sites, 26 primitive camping spots, and amazing amenities such as hiking and biking trails, a playground, camp store, dog park, and much more.This is not just camping—it is an adventure. And, it is the first of its kind at The Wilds!
Positioned at the intersection of State Route 146 and Zion Ridge Road, the campground will welcome an estimated 35,000 visitors each year, adding a major boost to local tourism and job growth.
“This is a huge milestone for us,” said Dr. Joe Smith, Vice President of The Wilds. “We have always offered extraordinary experiences for our guests, and the Hellbender RV Campground takes that to the next level. Whether you are an RV enthusiast or a tent camper, we have created a space where guests can truly immerse themselves in nature while enjoying all the comforts of modern camping.”
The $7.2 million Hellbender RV Campground project is made possible thanks to the generosity of the following partners and supporters: Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Muskingum County, Economic Development Administration, Ohio State Capital Budget Grant, and donors to The Wilds Fund (which covers the remaining balance).
For more information about the Hellbender RV Campground and when reservations will become available, please visit TheWilds.org and follow The Wilds’ social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.
