Section 5 Fall Camp N Ride - 2026
Event Partners
When: October 15-18, 2026
Where: GOAT Section 5 – Morgan County, Ohio
Camping: Jesse Owens State Park | McConnelsville, Ohio
Cost: Free (with registration)
Get ready for the 4th annual Fall Camp N Ride on Section 5 of the Great Ohio Adventure Trail!
We’re keeping the popular two-day riding format rolling for 2026. That means more gravel, more dirt, more exploration, and two full days to experience some of the finest adventure touring in the region—right as the fall foliage hits its peak in southeast Ohio.
Whether you’re returning to catch up with old friends around the campfire or joining us for your very first GOAT Camp N Ride, this weekend is built for the adventure riding community. Primitive, free camping is available for tents, truck campers, and small trailers at Jesse Owens State Park.
Let’s give the 2026 adventure riding season the send-off it deserves. See you on the trail!
GOAT Section 5
Section 5 is arguably the heart of the Great Ohio Adventure Trail, and home to some of Ohio’s finest adventure touring terrain.
Beginning near Burr Oak State Park, Section 5 dives straight into the Athens Unit of the Wayne National Forest, threading through scenic canopy-covered forest roads and past the historic Adams-San Toy Covered Bridge. After crossing the Muskingum River into McConnelsville—the county seat of Morgan County and home to the smallest Kroger in the United States—the route opens up into the Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area.
Key landmarks along Section 5 include the historic Big Muskie Bucket (the last remaining piece of the world’s largest dragline excavator, now serving as the Ohio Miners’ Memorial), the wide-open views along Unionville Road, and the official GOAT sticker stash on Onion Run Road. The full section concludes at the landmark Lafayette Hotel in downtown Marietta.
The Section 5 GOAT Loop
Featured in this area is the Section 5 GOAT Loop—a 116-mile day loop starting and ending at the Big Muskie Bucket. Perfect for a full day’s ride, it combines tight, winding two-track through the Wolf Creek Wildlife Area with sweeping ridge-top vistas along Unionville Road.
Camp N Ride Area Overview
Camp N Ride Schedule of Events
This is merely a tentative schedule of events, and is subject to change at any time.
Thursday October 15, 2026
- Afternoon/Evening: Early arrivals, camp setup at Hook Lake Campground, and informal evening campfire gathering.
Friday October 16, 2026
- 8:30 AM: Riders’ meeting at the Big Muskie Bucket.
- 9:00 AM: Depart for Day 1 Guided and Self-Guided Rides.
- Evening: Campfire, dinner, and social hour at Hook Lake basecamp.
Saturday October 17, 2026
- 8:30 AM: Riders’ meeting at the Big Muskie Bucket.
- 9:00 AM: Depart for Day 2 Guided and Self-Guided Rides.
- Evening: Campfire, raffle prizes, and 2026 season send-off.
Sunday October 18, 2026
- Morning: Camp pack-up, and safe travels home!
Pictures From Last Year
Camping Information
Camping information will be emailed to you as details are finalized.
Lodging Information
Prefer a bed and a warm shower over primitive camping? Local options nearby include:
Jesse Owens State Park Cabins (ODNR)
You can reserve one of Jesse Owens State Park’s ten cabins showcasing architectural styles inspired by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
- 100 Natural Resources Road 1 McConnelsville, OH 43756
- Website
Three Sisters Sunset Inn
- 3840 OH-60, McConnelsville, OH 43756
- Website
Comfort Inn & Suites
- 44380 W Hills Ln, Caldwell, OH 43724
- Website
Ride Information
Route Details TBD
Riders’ Meeting Locations:
- Friday 10/16: Hook Lake Pavilion, 8:30am
- Saturday 10/17: Big Muskie Bucket, 8:30am
Other Information
Food & Fuel Stops
There are food & fuel stops planned for each group ride, though food & fuel is on your own.