Campgrounds near Bloomingdale, Ohio sit within the Appalachian foothills, offering camping options across varied terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. Seasonal temperature variations affect camping conditions significantly, with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. The region experiences approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall, creating occasional wet conditions on unpaved campsites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Shadow Lake RV Resort contains several ponds throughout its 100-acre property where campers can fish. "We see deer almost every evening. There are a couple hiking trails nearby (Piatt Park and Raven's Rock) which have incredible rock formations in the gorges," notes one visitor at Shadow Lake RV Resort.
Water recreation: Austin Lake provides multiple water-based activities for campers during the warmer months. "Kayaking, inflatables, beach, but almost anything you want to do will cost you an additional charge," mentions a camper about Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins. The lake features paddle boards, jumps, and slides.
Swimming facilities: Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort maintains a large pool for campers seeking relief from summer heat. A visitor describes "The pool & concession stand, beautifully maintained lawns and gravel campsites, modern hookups, good shower/laundry facilities, nice fire rings with built-in grills, trash pickup service."
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The eastern Ohio hills provide scenic landscapes particularly appreciated during fall. "We came to Shadow Lake in October to camp for the month. To get here, you must drive through the rolling hills of Southern Ohio, which is absolutely gorgeous in October!" shares a visitor.
Peaceful atmosphere: Zion Retreat & RV Park offers a quieter camping experience with natural features. "The views are amazing! If you love peace and quiet this is the place for you. All sites are amongst the very tall trees. There are several ponds around the campground for fishing and bird watching," reports one camper.
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple playgrounds and recreational facilities keep children entertained. "Has a playground in every section, well equipped cabins, a swimming area with inflatables, kayak, pontoon, and paddle boarding rentals, a bumper boat area, small lake where you can fish and boat," mentions a visitor about Austin Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Several rv campgrounds near Bloomingdale, Ohio operate only during specific months. Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins runs from May through October, while others like Shadow Lake remain open year-round. "We came to Shadow Lake in October to camp for the month," notes one camper.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service challenges affect multiple campgrounds in the area. A camper at Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort mentions being "close to the highway but no road noise," while an Austin Lake visitor warns "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier."
Additional fees: Activity costs can accumulate beyond basic site fees. "Need to use the bathhouse? Better take quarters... bc the showers are coin operated. It can be a fun time, just be warned it'll cost ya," advises a camper about Austin Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Multiple entertainment options exist for children at certain campgrounds. "TONS of stuff to do here. Very big campground, all kinds of sites. Reserve early for Holiday Weekends as it fills up. Lots of seasonals. Inflatable slides and such in the lake, hiking trials, playgrounds," reports a visitor.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences variable weather patterns requiring appropriate gear. "I stayed here in the worse month possible for camping in ohio but the owner made it a great experience... even though every thing was snowy and muddy I could tell this is a very well taken care of place," shares a camper about Shadow Lake.
Noise considerations: Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins uses a public address system throughout the grounds. "Super loud PA system throughout the whole park that wakes you up at 8am every morning like you are in prison!" notes one reviewer, while another mentions "I even enjoyed the overhead speaker announcements. Added an old time feel to the campground."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Approach routes to some Bloomingdale, Ohio rv campgrounds require caution. "Take your time and all will be just fine. Our rig is 39' & 16K. 4wd low helps, not cause you need 4wd just for the lower gears," advises an RVer about Austin Lake's steep entrance road.
Site spacing: Proximity between campsites varies significantly between campgrounds. At Zion Retreat, "The sites are a bit close, think KOA close. This might be a turnoff if the campground was full. The weekend we stayed there were 8 total campers, lots of empty sites between campers."
Winter accommodations: Year-round campgrounds provide options for off-season visitors. A winter camper at Shadow Lake shares: "Shower house was clean and warm. The laundry mat washed and dried great. As a construction worker I have payed way more for way less."
