Camping sites near Newark, Ohio range from state parks to family-owned operations, with most locations situated between 15-40 miles from the city center. The region features rolling terrain with elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating natural drainage that helps mitigate muddiness after rainfall. Weather patterns typically include warm summers with occasional thunderstorms and mild springs that make early season camping viable at most campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking at Mohican State Park: Located about 40 miles northeast of Newark, this park offers extensive trail networks with diverse terrain. "The Hemlock Gorge trail is accessible from the end of the campground. People bring rafts and tubes and float down the river to the main campground at the end of the gorge," notes Marci P. in her Mohican State Park Campground review.
Fishing in multiple locations: Several campgrounds offer fishing ponds or lake access for anglers of all skill levels. At LA-Z Acres in Nashport, campers report good catches in their stocked pond. According to Angie S., the "Pond was great for fishing or just hanging out."
Water recreation on Alum Creek: For those willing to drive about 30 miles west of Newark, Alum Creek State Park provides water-based activities. "There is a campground beach and boat launch. Lost of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area," mentions Jill B. in her review of Alum Creek State Park Campground.
Seasonal events and entertainment: Many campgrounds host organized activities throughout their operating season. LA-Z Acres features "a new stage area, is the party place on the weekends!" according to Rebecca F., while other campgrounds offer themed weekends during holiday periods.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as a key factor in their experience. At Dillon State Park, John L. notes, "Go to the back of the campground. It is very quite," while Brian B. adds, "There is reasonable space between the sites to allow for some privacy and to allow you to spread out. Area C is the most secluded area."
Clean facilities: Many reviewers specifically mention bathroom and shower cleanliness. At Wolfie's Campground in Zanesville, reviewers consistently praise the maintenance. Jenny G. writes, "Bathhouse is very clean and tidy, with 2 large showers per bathhouse," while another reviewer notes the "nice 5ft deep pool, very nice playground."
Family-owned atmosphere: Several smaller campgrounds receive praise for their personalized service. At Rustic Knolls Campground near Mt. Vernon, Brandon P. observes, "If you are looking for a quiet little place to relax, this is it. Rustic is down a gravel road, well off the beaten path, and a little more remote than the boondocks. Frank, the owner, and his team are great."
Wildlife viewing: State parks and more secluded campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Dillon State Park, Andrea H. mentions, "The deer are plentiful and beautiful," while campers at Mohican have reported bald eagle sightings.
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Most popular camping sites near Newark, Ohio fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. Tree Haven Campground in Westerville operates from May 1 to November 1, while Rustic Knolls operates mid-April to mid-October. Plan accordingly.
Site selection considerations: At Dillon State Park Campground, Gary O. warns, "Many sites are not level. Many sites have NO shade." When booking, check site-specific details or call the campground directly to discuss your needs.
Weather impacts: Spring camping may encounter muddy conditions. Linda B. advises checking the location of water spouts: "We were by a water spout and every time an RV/Trailer came in they of course had to fill up. Check a campground map and try to avoid these sites."
Winter camping limitations: Most campgrounds close entirely or offer limited services during winter months. Andrea F. notes about Mohican: "Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year. This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off."
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Families report better experiences at campgrounds with planned events. At Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA, they "charged a lot of money for some of the activities though," according to Emily M., so budget accordingly.
Water features are key: Campgrounds with swimming options consistently rank higher with families. Kris K. reports that Rustic Knolls has a "Swimming pond and fishing pond" with "Restrooms all over for convenience."
Noise considerations: Campgrounds with recreation facilities may be louder. At Wolfie's, one reviewer noted it was "Great place, not peaceful at night" and explained: "Doesn't make sense to have quiet time at dark when bar nearby plays loud music outside till late."
Cabin options for easier first trips: For families new to camping, cabins provide a gentler introduction. At Dillon State Park, Renée C. reports, "Great place to rent a cabin! Inexpensive and always a pleasant stay," making it ideal for families testing their camping interest.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow entrance roads that can be difficult for larger rigs. Steve E. reports from Wolfie's Campground: "The only challenge is you don't want to meet a rig going out while you're coming in. We are a 38 foot class A and met a 36' 5th wheel on the curve at the entrance. We literally passed with less than an inch between us."
Hookup variations: Most RV sites near Newark offer electric, but full hookups are limited. At Tree Haven Campground, Tom O. notes, "Only gray water hook up available," while Dillon State Park provides "50A/30A electric. Limited sites have full hook-up."
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds require significant leveling for RVs. Gary O. warns at Dillon State Park that "many sites are not level," while Steve E. notes that at Wolfie's "all sites are gravel and well-maintained."
Test-drive opportunities: For those considering RV living, extended stays at local campgrounds provide valuable experience. Mark G. shares, "My wife and I spent a month out there in a fifth wheel to see if we like the lifestyle... Well....I guess we did! We are now in a search for a Diesel pusher to go full-time!"
