Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground offers 44 designated campsites with electric hookups, water access, and trailer facilities specifically designed for riders and their horses. The campground features a communal horse area with water troughs rather than individual corrals. Riders access an extensive network of bridle trails directly from the campground, encountering varied terrain with water crossings and scenic overlooks. While permanent horse containment is not provided, many campers bring portable corrals or highline systems for their horses to use between trail rides.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Lake Hope State Park offers dedicated trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. "The park has nice camp sites, cabins if you like that kinda thing! But watch out for the FOG on the lake at night!!!!¡ It gets so bad you can't see past the end of your boat!!¡!!¡" warns Robert R.
Kayaking and water activities: Alum Creek State Park Campground provides multiple water-based recreation options. "We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must and we even got close to wildlife (aka some pesky raccoons)," shares Jenny C., highlighting the campground's private beach area.
Hiking to geological formations: Explore the unique rock structures in the region. "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave," notes Elana C. at Hocking Hills State Park, describing the accessibility of natural features from campsites.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at Delaware State Park Campground. "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," writes Maddy B., emphasizing the secluded feel.
Horse-friendly facilities: The upgraded equestrian amenities receive positive feedback. "The new owners of the Palmerosa Campground have put a lot of time and money into this campground! Almost everything has been tore down and rebuilt... The old horse stalls have been torn down and 28 new covered stalls have been built! They are amazing and plenty if room for larger horses," reports Chad B.
Clean bathroom facilities: Buck Creek State Park Campground maintains well-kept facilities. "Showers were very nice and clean. Several water spickets throughout the park if you needed to access them," notes Lisa M., highlighting the practical amenities important to many campers.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning. "Must reserve online as they are still doing everything virtual. Camp spots were decently sized but no cover between camp spots and little shade," explains Mike & Deb L. about Buck Creek's procedures.
Site terrain challenges: Many campsites in the region have uneven ground. "Camp sites are very small and very unlevel, had to raise back of camper and put front about a 1/4" off ground to get close to level. Site around is sloped in all directions," reports Daniel about Lake Hope State Park Campground.
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. "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. at Delaware State Park, contrasting with other more remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Dillon State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "The rangers and naturalists have many activities going on and are very knowledgeable," shares Kate W., mentioning the educational opportunities available.
Beach access for kids: Seek out campsites near water features. "We had an absolute blast at the campsite! We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must," emphasizes Jenny C., highlighting the importance of water access for family enjoyment.
Walking distance to facilities: Consider proximity to restrooms when camping with children. "This summer my family has went to many campgrounds and by far Delaware has been our favorite. The site we were on was set back in the woods. My daughter had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site," explains Ashley R.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers various hookup options. "Reservations only, most sites are level and spacious. There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)," shares Meghan H., noting the convenience for RV campers.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on specific needs. "Sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," advises Katelyn P., highlighting the importance of considering seasonal conditions when selecting a site.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain throughout the region. "RV sites were very close together. Site required minimal leveling. We were on like a hilltop and overlooked lower level RV circle," explains Linda B., describing the topography that affects RV setup at some campgrounds.
