Camping options around Andover, Ohio span across northeastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, with most sites situated within 30 miles of town. The region features rolling hills, hardwood forests, and numerous lakes and streams at elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler 50-65°F temperatures with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access: Mosquito Lake State Park Campground offers multiple fishing spots with both shore and boat access. "Great park to take the kayaks on" with "lake to take the kayaks on," says Linda R. The campground provides "access to the lake for kayaking/swimming/fishing" according to Karen D.
Disc golf courses: Oil Creek Family Campground features a recently expanded disc golf course. "They have a 27-hole disc golf course (recently expanded from 18 hole) primarily in the woods near and around the campground property," notes Danielle V. Another camper mentions "My favorite was the disc golf. Their course is really nice!"
Beach activities: West Branch State Park Campground maintains swimming areas for families. "The camper beach was small but nice and clean. We also took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear," reports Andrea F. Rino S. adds "Beach is right next door too!"
Hiking trails: Two Mile Run County Park offers numerous wooded paths. "Plenty of nice hiking trails" according to Joanie B. The park connects to a broader trail network, allowing for extended day hikes while using the campground as a base.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Two Mile Run County Park receives praise for its layout. "When staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area," reports John S. Joanie B. agrees: "Every site has plenty of room. Campground overall is quiet."
Clean facilities: West Branch State Park maintains well-kept shower houses. "The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," mentions Alisa G. Another camper adds, "Bathrooms were clean separate showers verizon works well here."
Family amenities: Oil Creek Family Campground focuses on activities for children. "They have a great playground, a maze, a catch and release pond. Lots of things to do to keep the kids, or in our case the grandkids occupied," writes Jim C. Another visitor noted "They have a lot of activities."
Privacy options: Most campgrounds offer secluded sites away from crowds. "Shen staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area," confirms John S. Robyn S. shares, "we basically had a whole area of sites to ourselves, and it was a very wooded area."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mosquito Lake's camping conditions vary throughout the year. "Unfortunately our campsite was under water due the extensive rains recently this past week and spring overall," reports Samantha J. For winter visitors, other parks offer alternatives like "Adirondack shelters... firewood is available but you have to donate some cash, split it and haul it to your shelter."
Site leveling challenges: West Branch State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "Our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches," warns Andrea F. Joe I. advises, "make sure to bring stuff to level."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more remote experiences, Danner Primitive Campground provides hike-in only sites. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead," explains Casey L. Facilities include "vault toilets that were clean and well maintained, with hand sanitizer."
Equestrian camping limitations: Horse campgrounds near Andover, Ohio remain limited. While trails exist for day rides, facilities with dedicated corrals or stables are scarce within 30 miles. Riders should contact campgrounds directly to confirm current equestrian accommodation policies.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: West haven rv park and campground welcomes pets. "Had our fur baby Zeke, 5yo East GSD with us. Jodi placed us in a very nice spot right next to huge freshly mowed field in the rear of the park," shares Pete D. The park maintains "a dog 'playground' (enclosed area with some obstacles)" according to another reviewer.
Kid activities: Oil Creek schedules regular entertainment for children. "They also provide weekly entertainment for the kids, e.g. rock painting or special guests. This weekend, for instance was 'Jungle Terry and his amazing exotic animal family,'" notes Danielle V. Another visitor confirms, "My family stayed over Memorial Day weekend. It was so much fun. They have a lot of activities."
Beach access: West Branch provides family-friendly water recreation. "There is a small beach at the campground but a larger one on the other side of the lake," explains Alisa G. Families appreciate that "Camp is near beach & marina" as mentioned by another visitor.
Nature exploration: Local creeks provide educational opportunities. "If you're camping with kiddos, try turning over the rocks in area creeks to find little aquatic insects. A little creepy, but a lot of awesome," suggests Brannon M.
Tips from RVers
Waterfront considerations: West Branch offers premium lakeside sites for RVs. "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. We're in a self contained RV so it's not a problem for us," shares Rino S. Another visitor confirms "Waterside sites fill up quickly!"
Hookup availability: Mosquito Lake provides various utility options. "There are several full hook-up sites. Electric sites near the lake," reports Heidi B. RVers should note that "the water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full."
Timing reservations: Popular campgrounds require advance planning. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park. This timing applies to most developed campgrounds in the region with electrical hookups.
