Alexandria, Ohio campgrounds offer a mix of primitive and developed sites across forested terrains with elevations ranging from 800-1,100 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs in the mid-80s and winter lows in the 20s. Camping options range from basic tent sites to family-oriented campgrounds with stocked fishing ponds throughout the region.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Delaware State Park Campground features multiple trail options connecting various parts of the park. "There are plenty of hiking/biking trails for you to get out and explore the park. Many of the trails link together so you can decide how long you want to hike," notes Catherine from Delaware State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Mohican State Park provides riverside camping with excellent fishing access. "The sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," warns Katelyn P. from Alum Creek State Park Campground. Many campgrounds stock their ponds specifically for campers.
Swimming options: Most area campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas, either in natural lakes or constructed ponds. "We have been extremely disappointed with Ohio State Park campgrounds. They have been congested, poorly maintained, badly landscaped, and staying at one felt like I was set-up in the middle of a mall parking lot. However, Dillon has been a completely different experience," shares Ron A.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Delaware State Park. "This is probably our favorite state park we have been to thus far. The best thing about this campground is the fact that all the sites have privacy. There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground," explains Maddy B. from Delaware State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathroom facilities make a significant difference in camping comfort. "Very well run park. Great facilities," reports Greg W. Multiple reviewers mention the cleanliness of shower houses across various campgrounds in the Alexandria area, though quality varies by location.
Seasonal activities: Cardinal Center Campground offers year-round options. "We have a nice indoor pool, stocked fishing pond, and an indoor clubhouse with a pool table," shares Renee L. from Cardinal Center Campground. Winter camping is available at select locations with heated bathroom facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings during peak season. "From what I've been told you might be able to get into one if you book the whole season a year in advance," explains Catherine regarding waterfront sites at Alum Creek State Park Campground.
Utility connections: Full hookup availability varies widely across campgrounds. "Sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," warns Katelyn P.
Weather considerations: Several campgrounds experience flooding after heavy rains. "First Campground site I went to had a large mud puddle full of hornets. I asked to move site and was accommodated. It was right after a heavy rain storm and so maybe it was just a fluke," shares Jan B. from Alum Creek State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation amenities: Rustic Knolls Campground offers family-centered activities. "Excellent campground with fantastic staff and owners. Nice swimming pond with inflatable attractions. Well stocked camp store. Lots of activities for the whole family," reports John M. from Rustic Knolls Campground.
Check for special events: Some campgrounds run seasonal programming. "They have pancake breakfast on Saturday mornings through summer and doughnuts on Sunday. Helpful camphost," shares Jill B. Weekend activities often include organized games for children.
Explore nearby attractions: Many campgrounds are located near additional recreation opportunities. "Located near the town of Delaware, you aren't too far off the beaten path and we even had decent service with Verizon," notes Marshall P. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on specific needs. "...the space and privacy...the two things that bring me back to this campground year after year. We have never had a 'bad' campsite at the Alum Creek State Park Campground. Each camping space is separated by trees and brush. And there is plenty of room! An added bonus is the addition of several full hook up sites!" recommends Sandy O.
Check seasonal closures: Off-season camping requires planning for utility limitations. "No cell service with Verizon at this park. Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year. This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off," advises Andrea F. from Mohican State Park Campground.
Verify site conditions: Not all sites are level or equally maintained. "Some of the 'permanent' sites and campers are a little disheveled but those did not affect our experience other than confusion since I was told they don't offer monthly stays/sites," shares Kelley M.
