Jeff A.
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Travelerhawking hills state park campground
Hawking Hills Campground
Great - close to hiking trails at Hawking Hills state park!
Camping near Carroll, OH
121 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Central Ohio's landscape surrounding Carroll hosts several established campgrounds ranging from basic to well-equipped facilities. Jackson Lake Park, located within 10 miles of Carroll, provides 199 campsites accommodating tents, RVs, and cabin rentals, while A.W. Marion State Park Campground offers more primitive camping experiences with fewer amenities but a natural setting. The region includes additional options like Geneva Hills Camp and Event Center with glamping and yurt opportunities, and several state parks within a short drive that support various camping styles from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV locations.
Most campgrounds in the Carroll area operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with A.W. Marion State Park open from early April to late October and Campbell Cove Camping available from May 1 to October 15. Electric hookups are common at developed campgrounds, though primitive tent-only areas exist at locations like Scioto-Grove Metro Park. Bathroom facilities vary significantly across locations, with some offering only vault toilets while others provide full shower facilities. A recent review noted: "The bathrooms were the most disgusting thing ever! There was actually a sign that said ecoli was found in one of the bathrooms."
Campers report high satisfaction with water features at many of the area's campgrounds. Jackson Lake Park offers a swimming area and recreational lake activities that appeal to families with children. "The little lake was so much fun. My children were upset we had to leave early due to the storm coming in," wrote one visitor. Hiking trails are available at several locations, particularly at A.W. Marion State Park where a 5-mile trail circles Hargus Lake. Campground size varies considerably throughout the region, with some offering a more intimate experience while others like Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA provide a larger, more developed camping environment. Many campgrounds in the area balance proximity to Columbus with a natural retreat setting, making them popular weekend destinations for city residents.
Best Campgrounds near Carroll (121)
1. A.W. Marion State Park Campground
"They had a scavenger hunt which made us really experience the nature around us, going through the woods off trail, going to the lakeside, walking around looking for different things on a list."
"October weekends in Ohio State Park campgrounds are super popular so we weren’t able to make a reservation here. "
from $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability2. Hocking Hills State Park Campground
"There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."
"If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."
from $20 - $70 / night
Check Availability3. Jackson Lake Park
"As a moto camper, we really lucked out with a flat plot and didn’t have anyone in the spots next to us. My #1 complaint was the bathroom situation."
"Easy access to sites. Staff could take a lesson in hospitality and giving directions on park."
from $40 - $139 / night
Check Availability4. Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA
"Then outside is the picnic table. Due to health code rules you have to cook and do food outside of the cabin. "
"Not as close to the lake as we first thought but close enough. Will probably be back."
5. Alum Creek State Park Campground
"Happened to be next to the park host. No choice of where to locate my large tent. Showers/bathrooms were OK--older facilities. "
"First off we have to say that Ohio State Park campgrounds are some of the best we’ve ever stayed in."
from $23 - $70 / night
Check Availability6. Campbell Cove Camping
"This is a very nice campground near all of the attractions of Hocking Hills, Ohio. We had full hookups that were excellent, but if we didn't there were several new restrooms throughout the grounds."
"Our site was waterfront and also set away from other sites."
7. Scioto-Grove Metro Park
"No driving your vehicle any further than the bottom of the hill. Great location, very beautiful. Spacious in between 5 campgrounds and right next to the Scioto River."
"Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn’t see a single person. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood."
8. Hocking Hills Camping & Canoe
"River right next to us and port a potty near. Allows dogs. Showers are at the check in but they are nice."
"Walked 8 miles with our dog and still have so much left to see. Will definitely be going back! Very quiet and clean campgrounds."
9. Geneva Hills - Camp and Event Center
"It was a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp."
from $35 - $600 / night
Check Availability10. Tar Hollow State Park Campground
"The campground is about 2-3 acres large, situated on a hill with a path dug out around the perimeter. "
"The drive there was a very interesting tour of trump flags Amish buggies and more. Would come back if I was stranded in Ohio, but overall great pit stop for cleaning up on a long journey."
from $27 - $75 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 20 min from Columbus, OH
- 1 hr from Springfield, OH
- 1 hr 19 min from Mansfield, OH
Recent Camping Photos near Carroll, OH
301 Photos of 121 Carroll Campgrounds
Jess N.
Jackson Lake Park
Shannon G.
A.W. Marion State Park Campground
Patty C.
Hocking Hills Camping & Canoe
Zach
Scioto-Grove Metro Park
Chris W.
Big Sycamore Family Campground
The Dyrt
Hocking River RV Park
LISA R.
Campbell Cove Camping
The Dyrt
Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds
Chad B.
Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground
Libby W.
Lazy River at Granville
Katie H.
Hocking Hills KOA Holiday
Scott D.
Hocking Hills State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Carroll, OH
781 Reviews of 121 Carroll Campgrounds
Tara R.
RangerTar Hollow State Park Campground
Our favorite one!
It’s just beautiful there. Great for bikes. Good camp store, putt putt, bike rentals, camper beach. Easy access to fishing. And there a playground surrounded by a little stream of water that is so cool. New bathrooms are spectacular. Also has family showers.
- Tara R.Ranger
Deer Creek State Park Campground
Big a lot of wooded spots
Good family camping ground. Most sites are wooded, kids fishing pond. Good playground. Nice shower rooms. Free putt putt and good camp store.
- Tara R.Ranger
Burr Oak State Park Campground
Small
Not our favorite. Very small campground. Good hiking trails. Decent beach. Very hilly. Shower house was kinda gross.
- KKera F.Traveler
Cross Creek Camping Resort
ALUM CREEK CAMPGROUND
My family loves staying here!
Courtnee H.TravelerHilltop Resorts and Campgrounds
Ok
The campground was well maintained and it did offer some fun activities for the kids (pillow trampoline, basketball court, mini golf). We stayed in the RV section and although the sites are grassy, we prefer more trees and bigger sites for shade and privacy. This is more of an RV park feel that we prefer. However, it was within close driving proximity to Hocking Hills State Park, which was our reason for booking. So it did the job!
- NName
ScoutPastime Campground
Very nice campground
Pastime Campground is a nice base to explore the Columbus area. The well kept campground is part of a city park that consists of a some nice walking trails, baseball fields, sand volleyball and a pool/splash park (for a small fee). The town offers restaurants and is within walking distance. Overall a good stay.
Ravi G.ScoutThe Caves Campground
Dyrt didn't pay for reservation, no refund
Caves is great campground. However they do not honor dyrt reservations. Had to pay at the campground. Sent email to dyrt, no reply. They owe me 400 dollars, and I have not heard back. Dyrt, if you honor, I will update this review- until then, DO NOT USE!!!
- JJoe B.Scout
Pastime Campground
Drinking on the grounds
The cops pulled in and said we wasn't allowed to drink
Guide to Carroll
The topography around Carroll, Ohio features gently rolling hills and wooded areas with elevations ranging between 800-1,000 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with camping typically most comfortable during spring and fall when temperatures average between 50-75°F. The area's limestone and sandstone geology creates unique water features found at many local campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: The 5-mile trail at A.W. Marion State Park Campground circles Hargus Lake and remains accessible during winter months. "A cold but sunny weekend in February at site #32. No other campers there for the weekend, but a lot of foot traffic," notes one visitor who appreciated the off-season solitude.
Water activities for all ages: Jackson Lake Park offers a swimming pond with inflatables during summer months plus fishing opportunities. A camper mentioned that "My wife and I spent Labor Day weekend here as it was close to Columbus and allowed family to come spend a night or two."
Mountain biking access: Several campgrounds connect to dedicated biking trails, particularly around Alum Creek State Park Campground. "There is a great mountain biking trail in the vicinity," notes one reviewer who enjoyed combining camping with trail riding.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campers note the variation in bathroom quality across locations. At Campbell Cove Camping, visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities: "The bathroom facilities were some of the nicest and cleanest we've experienced."
Spacious, private sites: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush," reports a camper at Alum Creek State Park Campground, mentioning the natural separation between camping areas.
Proximity to Columbus: Many campsites serve as weekend retreats for urban residents. "AW Marion is near 23 and easy access to the highway to get to Columbus. Plenty of space and shade in not electrical campsite for a hot summer day," explains one reviewer who appreciated the convenient location.
What you should know
Seasonal operations vary by location: While most campgrounds operate April through October, specific opening dates differ. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime," notes a camper about Scioto-Grove Metro Park, which has more limited availability than other area campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Reservations only, most sites are level and spacious," mentions a visitor to Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise despite natural settings. A Big Sycamore Family Campground visitor noted: "The only downside is that it is close to a highway so at night you can hear the traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA offers multiple child-friendly amenities. "Tons of stuff for kids, they had a blast! Great atmosphere, friendly staff," reports one family, noting the campground's focus on activities for younger visitors.
Water features for children: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas designed with families in mind. At Campbell Cove Camping, "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole. The bathrooms are so clean. You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Carroll, OH?
What camping is available near Carroll, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Carroll, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 121 campgrounds and RV parks near Carroll, OH and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Carroll, OH?
Which is the most popular campground near Carroll, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carroll, OH is A.W. Marion State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 35 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carroll, OH?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carroll, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Carroll, OH.
What parks are near Carroll, OH?
What parks are near Carroll, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Carroll, OH that allow camping, notably Alum Creek Lake and Deer Creek Lake.
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