Ohio state parks offer a range of developed campgrounds with diverse accommodation types, from tent sites to cabin rentals. Popular options include Hocking Hills State Park and Mohican State Park, which maintain well-rated campgrounds with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables. Most state park campgrounds provide RV-friendly sites with water and electric connections, while select locations such as West Branch, East Harbor, and Mohican state parks feature cabin accommodations for visitors seeking more comfort. These established campgrounds typically include fire rings, restroom facilities, and reservable sites.
Many Ohio campgrounds remain open year-round, though seasonal considerations affect facility availability and camping conditions. "After a few years of trying, I finally got into Mohican State Park. The campground itself is very well laid out. It's long and just a few rows deep with trees throughout, so you don't feel over crowded," noted one camper who visited in spring. Reservation systems operate for most developed sites, with popular locations filling quickly during summer weekends and holiday periods. State park campgrounds generally feature good road access suitable for most vehicles, though some primitive camping areas may require higher clearance. Alcohol is permitted at most campgrounds, and pet policies vary by location. Weather patterns in Ohio bring humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching the 90s and cold winters that limit camping comfort without proper gear.
The campground experience varies significantly across the state, with waterfront locations receiving particularly strong reviews. Sites at East Harbor, Caesar Creek, and Alum Creek state parks provide water access for boating, swimming, and fishing. Campers consistently rate facilities at Mohican State Park Campground among the highest in the state for their layout and amenities. According to a visitor at Caesar Creek State Park, "The showers are clean and the staff is friendly. Camp sites are spacious." Privacy levels differ between campgrounds, with more wooded sites offering better separation between neighbors. Several reviewers mentioned the importance of shade coverage during hot summer months, with tent-only areas at some parks like Harrison Lake State Park providing relief from direct sun. Full-hookup sites tend to be more closely spaced than standard electric or non-electric options.
$29 - $46 / night
"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."
"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."
"Ranger Review: Morsel Spork at West Branch State Park **Campground Review: **
This state park was very welcome after our first two unlucky Ohio state park experiences."
"Here's what's great about this campground situated at an easy drive from major cities like Columbus and Cleveland...its scenic, a fully loaded campground with bathhouses, parks, hiking paths, swimming"
$29 - $30 / night
"This is your standard Ohio State Park campground. It has the usual parking, water, restrooms, camp store, and activities. East Fork is rather nice as it has the lake and long trails. "
"Our favorite campsite for the outskirts of Cincinnati. Lots of great spots available! You can get to the lake in about a 15 minute drive."
"A great campground in Ohio. So clean and so many things to do. Campsites are close together but they do honor quiet hours. Great trail around the lake and a fun and challenging disc golf course."
"this is probably my favorite park in Ohio . it’s always clean people are so friendly and the lake is just beautiful !"
$17 - $75 / night
"There is a little store, but note that the firewood is in huge, unburnable pieces, (as most Ohio state park firewood is), so you'll need tons of kindling and several firestarters, or an ax and some way"
"We stayed in Site 12, which was huge and conveniently located close to a fairly new shower house. That facility was among the very best I've seen! Amazingly clean!"
"It’s not the most secluded spots but if you are looking for something tucked away there a few sites. The ability to tube down the river and walk back to your camp site was so much fun."
"The tent sites (short walk from parking lot) and one car per tent site. Our site was not the traditional walk up/park camp site. It was a nice change of pace. More space and great neighbors. "
"This camp ground is pretty standard for Ohio State Parks. It does have a cool new sleeping option. Yurts! We enjoyed our time in the yurt. "
"It is one of the better beaches for Ohio State Parks in the southern part of the state. We bought a day pass to the pool at the lodge."
"Just a short walk or bike ride to Lake Erie via a paved path. I highly recommend taking a bike, as there are so many trails and paths to ride throughout the park."
"This park is close to Toledo and within spitting distance of several refineries although you’d never know it! "
$25 - $50 / night
"Beware, the sites are close to these roads and quite shallow, but because each road dead ends in a cul de sac, traffic is very light, even when the campground is full, as when we visited."
"Lots of walking trails, lots of nature. Once off my favorite local ohio parks."
ScoutBit pricey but is a nice park stayed most the winter they have a 9 full hook up sites open year round city water heated bath house site gets a little muddy when rains mostly quite to
ScoutThis beautiful small state park is only a half hour away from my house. It's close enough that we ho for a week several times a year and I can still drive to work daily. We love the sites lakeside. It's great to be able to fish right in our own campsite. It is small but always a great time every time we go. Also make sure you go to Lisbon and get Mary's Pizza. Trust me you won't regret it!
TravelerRelatively flat; during OHV off season, one of the roads is closed, I believe to Dorr Run. This trailhead is mainly for OHV riders so there is space for a vehicle and trailer.
NOTE: I think they close the toilets every winter.
Ground is covered in snow, so I would scout it in the summer. Several parking areas along the road.
ScoutNice small town fairgrounds with modern amenities.
ScoutWe had a family reunion there, our camper and rented 2 cabins, made full use of the shelter house that day. It worked out so well we are booking again this year.
TravelerPretty easy trail to walk, small camp ground for multiple campers, and a nice little waterfall at the bottom of the trail it wasn’t running very much when we went but a pretty spot
GuideDon't bother contacting them for tent camping. I did and they're one of those seasonal RV things.
GuideWe loved this lake. The water temps were perfect mid June and everyone was so nice! They had clean restrooms/showers and lots of room at each site.
GuideWe had an amazing time at Geneva state park. We stayed at the primitive sites and it was great. The bathrooms were clean and the views were amazing.
Camping in Ohio offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for a weekend getaway or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure, Ohio's campgrounds have something for you.
Camping in Ohio offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly fun. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful state has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make camping reservations in Ohio state parks?
Ohio state park camping reservations can be made online through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website or by calling 866-OHIOPARKS. Reservations typically open 6 months in advance, and booking early is recommended, especially for summer weekends and holidays. At Alum Creek State Park Campground, one of Ohio's larger campgrounds, you'll need to check in at the registration office upon arrival. When visiting Pymatuning State Park Campground and other popular parks, be prepared for potentially longer check-in lines during peak season. Some parks offer first-come, first-served sites, but these are limited. Have your vehicle information, intended length of stay, and payment method ready when making reservations.
Where can I find good fishing spots near Ohio campgrounds?
Wolf Run State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with campsites that wrap around the lake, providing easy water access. Campers note that the water is clearer than many Ohio lakes, making it ideal for fishing. East Fork State Park Campground is another great option with a 2,160-acre lake stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish. Additional fishing destinations include Caesar Creek State Park (known for its muskie fishing), the Ohio River access points near Shawnee State Forest, and the various ponds at Mohican State Park. Most Ohio state park campgrounds with lakes offer boat rentals and fishing docks. Remember to obtain an Ohio fishing license before your trip, available online or at local bait shops.
What are the best state park campgrounds in Ohio?
Ohio offers excellent state park camping options with diverse amenities. Cowan Lake State Park Campground is highly regarded for its lake access, convenient location between Cincinnati and Columbus, and recent improvements. Many campers find autumn the perfect season to visit. Harrison Lake State Park Campground in northwest Ohio stands out for its unusually spacious, level sites compared to other Ohio state parks. Other noteworthy options include Alum Creek with its beautiful wooded sites, East Harbor along Lake Erie, and Mohican State Park with excellent hiking trails. Most Ohio state parks offer clean facilities, water access, and a variety of recreational activities, though amenities and site privacy can vary considerably between parks.
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