Flowing through the forest's Marietta unit, the Little Muskingum River offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking as well as fishing. Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, north of Ironton off SR 93, includes a lake, campground and a 19th-century furnace left from Ohio's iron industry. Primitive camping is available throughout the forest and both the Athens and Ironton units have developed campgrounds; a small fee is charged. Hunting is permitted in season.
The forest is free and open all year. For maps and information contact the Supervisor's Office/Athens District, (740) 753-0101, at 13700 US 33, Nelsonville, OH 45764; Ironton District, (740) 534-6500, at 6518 SR 93, Pedro, OH 45659; or the Marietta District, (740) 373-9055, 27515 SR 7, Marietta, OH 45750.