Camping opportunities near Carroll, Ohio include primitive tent sites and full hookup RV options within a 30-mile radius. Carroll sits at approximately 840 feet above sea level in the Hocking Hills region, where summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season. Winters see temperatures dropping below freezing, making most campgrounds seasonal operations from April through October.
What to do
Hiking nearby lakes: A.W. Marion State Park Campground features a 5-mile loop trail around Hargus Lake with access points directly from campsites. "We have dogs and the [site] was big enough to walk them around and let them stretch their legs. The campground is next to a lake which has a 5 mile loop for both hiking and mountain biking," notes Shannon G.
Kayaking on calm waters: Campbell Cove Camping offers direct lake access for water activities. "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," writes Ann H. The campground provides rentals for those without their own equipment.
Testing backpacking gear: Scioto-Grove Metro Park features short backpacking trails perfect for beginners. "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit," shares Zach. The park provides firewood at these sites.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Alum Creek State Park Campground consistently receives praise for spacious sites. "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," mentions Sandy O.
Clean bathroom facilities: Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers modern facilities despite its rustic setting. "Clean bathrooms and heated showers. Ironically, we stayed at the worst campsite there, it was downslope, and they had recently cut down many trees and the site was a muddy mess. Every single other campsite (and we drove the whole thing) they were perfect," reports Meghan H.
Swimming options: Big Sycamore Family Campground features a swimming pool that families appreciate. "There is a nice looking swimming pool available, and the campground is close to most of the local attractions," notes Chris W. This amenity is particularly valuable for dog friendly campgrounds near Carroll that restrict pets from natural swimming areas.
What you should know
Limited shower access: Several campgrounds have restricted shower facilities. At A.W. Marion State Park, a camper noted, "There are no showers, concrete floored, hole in the ground 'outhouses' (one men's, one woman's) by the playground and port-a-johns at the other end of the campground."
Walk-in site considerations: Some Hocking Hills sites require significant hauling. "Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! All in all we had a blast and a good laugh about our trek with all our stuff!!" warns Amanda P.
Site flooding concerns: Following rain, some campgrounds experience drainage issues. At Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA, a visitor observed, "Our site was muddy when we arrived and only got worse due to only having 2 days with no rain. That said it was one of the widest in the strip and would have suited us and our pups just fine had we been able to really enjoy the space."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with activities: Buckeye Lake KOA offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "Wonderful family friendly place!" reports Jennifer W. Another camper mentioned, "Pool, mini golf, bounce house, playground. Variety of site types available."
Consider cabin options for easier trips: Geneva Hills Camp and Event Center provides cabin accommodations that simplify family camping. "Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren't any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp. It was a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp," shares a visitor identified as A.B.
Look for pet exercise areas: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Carroll vary in their pet amenities. Campbell Cove Camping welcomes pets with accessible walking areas. "We had a great time here and it felt like we were in the woods but there was a business district about 3 mins away which was really convenient," notes Natalee M.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup accessibility: Some parks have challenging utility connections. At Big Sycamore Family Campground, "Some sites are full hook up, some sites are electric and water, and some are primitive. The dump station is easily accessible if you need it," explains Amber R.
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "The only downside is that it is close to a highway so at night you can hear the traffic. This didn't bother us so much but might be a problem for some," mentions an RVer at Big Sycamore Family Campground.
Verify site leveling: Uneven sites can create challenges. At Alum Creek, one camper noted, "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."
