Camping spots near Amlin, Ohio range from state parks with full amenities to simple rustic accommodations across central Ohio's rolling terrain. The region typically sees seasonal temperature fluctuations from 20°F winters to 85°F summers, with higher precipitation during spring months affecting campsite conditions. Most campgrounds in this area sit between 800-1000 feet elevation, providing relatively flat terrain suitable for both tent and RV camping.
What to do
Water-based activities: Dogs welcome at select spots. The dog park at Cross Creek Camping Resort includes lake access for pets, making it a standout feature. As one camper notes, "A great dog park with lake entrance for the pups," allowing four-legged family members to cool off during summer visits.
Trail exploration: Multiple difficulty levels. Scioto Grove Metro Park features a unique rope bridge crossing that appeals to both children and adults. "Somewhere among the hustle and bustle and just outside Columbus you can find this hidden gem of a park in Grove City. Backpacking sites, rope bridge crossing over a creek that kids and adults would love to explore," writes one visitor.
Disc golf: Free access at multiple parks. Several area parks maintain disc golf courses with varying difficulty levels. "Nice hiking trails in the area," mentions a visitor to Buck Creek State Park Campground, which features multiple recreational facilities beyond just camping.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Varies by campground. Alum Creek State Park Campground receives high marks for site separation. "...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!" reports one regular visitor.
Clean facilities: Standards vary seasonally. Delaware State Park maintains bathhouses in each camping section, with some campers noting their cleanliness. "The bathroom was perfectly adequate but a long walk from our site," notes a visitor to Buck Creek State Park, indicating the importance of checking site maps when booking.
Weekend activities: Scheduled events at private campgrounds. Many private campgrounds organize regular weekend activities. At Tree Haven Campground, "They have potlucks, holiday events, live entertainment and are putting in a new, bigger pool," reports a seasonal camper who has returned for five consecutive years.
What you should know
Reservations: Essential during peak seasons. October remains particularly busy across area campgrounds despite cooler temperatures. One camper at Delaware State Park shared, "This is probably our favourite state park we have been to thus far. We went camping early October in tents. It was cold but it was so much fun."
Site flooding: Check conditions after rain. Water drainage issues affect some waterfront sites. At Alum Creek, "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 a reviewer.
Rules enforcement: Varies by management type. Private campgrounds often maintain stricter regulations than state parks. "This place is small and quiet. That is the only good thing about park. Campfires not allowed. They yell at you for everything," reports one dissatisfied camper at Alton RV Park, showing the importance of reviewing rules before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Distributed throughout camping loops. Delaware State Park Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "This is our second time coming here really enjoy this place it's typically more of a quiet relaxed camp there is a playground in each of the 4 sections for kids to play with a remodel shower house at each one," notes a repeat visitor.
Swimming options: Beach areas vary in size and crowds. Family-friendly swimming areas exist at several parks. At Buck Creek State Park, "We also used the camper beach but to the left of it to launch our kayaks. Which was nice because you could back up to the pathway and park."
Seasonal activities: Weekend programming for children. Some campgrounds offer regular children's activities, especially during summer. "Camp host on I think lot 71 or there about were great at keeping the activities going. Every night there was a movie and you could buy root beer floats for $1!! And the kids loved it," shares a Buck Creek State Park visitor who camped during a holiday weekend.
Tips from RVers
Cell service: Provider coverage varies. Multiple carriers show service at most campgrounds, with Verizon generally offering the strongest signal. "Att works good here verizion not so much but at night when people are sleeping verizion gets a little better," reports a Delaware State Park camper, highlighting how usage patterns affect signal strength.
Storm shelters: Available at select campgrounds. Some parks provide designated storm shelters for severe weather events. At Delaware State Park, a visitor observed, "I also noticed that they had a nice storm shelter on the property that was well marked and easy to get to from any of the campground areas."
Site leveling: Varies across campgrounds. Several campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "The site is not level and our leveling system has the front wheels off the ground," notes a Cross Creek visitor, emphasizing the need to bring proper leveling equipment.
