Buck Creek State Park provides non-motorized watercraft access for visitors seeking equestrian camping near Cedarville, Ohio. Located in central Ohio's Clark County, the park sits at approximately 1,050 feet elevation with seasonal temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. The surrounding area features several public lands with varying camping accommodations for horse owners.
What to do
Lake activities at Buck Creek State Park Campground: The 2,120-acre reservoir offers fishing opportunities with easy shoreline access. "One of my favorites in this area, great rv spots and even better tent/non electric spots... easy walk to fish or to campers beach," notes Buck B. The park includes a swimming beach specifically for campers, separate from the public beach.
Trail exploration: Hiking paths throughout the region provide varied terrain. At Kiser Lake State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple trails with varying difficulty levels. According to Alexandra F., "They have some play areas for kids, a few hiking trails and a wetlands, but most people were fishing and kayaking."
Paddling options: Several area lakes prohibit motorized boats, creating calm waters for paddling. "The lake was calm and everyone was very respectful of us in our kayaks," writes Mandi B. about her experience at Kiser Lake. The non-motor restriction creates peaceful conditions for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the region offer substantial sites with adequate separation. At Cowan Lake State Park Campground, "The lot was VERY large and well maintained. The asphalt pad was decently level; a picnic table and fire ring were included," reports Kim H.
Family-friendly atmosphere: The campgrounds maintain areas designed for children and family activities. "Camp host on I think lot 71 or there about were great at keeping the activities going. Every night there was a movie and you could buy root beer floats for $1!! And the kids loved it," shares Melissa M. about her Buck Creek experience.
Natural settings: The varied terrain provides diverse camping experiences from lakeside to forested sites. "The non-electric loop [at Buck Creek] to be pretty quiet and uncrowded. The grounds are level and grassy, with trees that provide partial shade," notes Amanda P.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: While facilities exist at all major campgrounds, quality differs considerably. At Dayton Metro Parks Five Rivers Metroparks, "The vault toilets are one of the best as they are always clean. We have hand sanitizer and toilet paper," according to Kenpocentaur K.
Water access considerations: Not all campgrounds provide full water hookups or potable water sources. "No water so be sure to bring your own," advises Kenpocentaur K. about the Five Rivers Metropark sites.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "Must reserve online as they are still doing everything virtual," notes Mike & Deb L. about their Buck Creek experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with children. At Cowan Lake State Park, "There is a path to the playground which the occasional kid will run down into your campsite by accident," mentions Melissa M., indicating the close access to recreation areas.
Beach access: When camping with children, shoreline distance matters. "We also used the camper beach but to the left of it to launch our kayaks. Which was nice because you could back up to the pathway and park," describes Melissa M. about Buck Creek.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs. "The trails here are easy and short. I loved the informational boxes and tags that they had on the trees or plants. This is helpful if you have little ones with you," shares Kenpocentaur K. about Cowan Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RVs, choosing perimeter sites often provides more space and privacy. "I recommend taking one on the outside of the loop - near the trees," advises Jason M. about Buck Creek State Park Campground.
Connectivity information: Internet access varies significantly between parks. At Cowan Lake State Park, Johnothan R. reports, "Internet here on t-moble 5G home is 90Mbps down and 6 to 20Mbps up. Verizon on cellphone, only 10Mbs down, 1-3Mbps up. ATT cellphones are similar to Verizon. Great enough for work or play."
Site levelness: RV owners should note pad conditions. "Our space was nice and level," notes Lisa M. about Buck Creek, while another camper mentioned that "The asphalt pad was decently level" at Cowan Lake.
