Camping spots near Chesterville, Ohio offer a range of rustic to developed options surrounded by central Ohio's rolling farmland at approximately 1,100 feet elevation. Local campgrounds typically experience four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging in the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most facilities in the region operate seasonally from April through October, though several maintain limited winter camping with reduced amenities.
What to do
Disc golf course access: At Mt Gilead State Park Campground, campers can enjoy a challenging disc golf course just steps from their sites. A reviewer noted, "We took a night walk with headlamps and found the disc golf course. This was laid out to be a crazy course and included repelling ropes!" The course provides entertainment for all skill levels.
Archery activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Dogwood Valley offers structured archery sessions that appeal to families with children. "The kids had the best time at archery. We watched them feed the fish at the lake in the morning, that was such a fun experience. I've never seen that many fish that big up close," reported one visitor who found enough activities to fill their entire stay.
Shooting sports: For campers interested in target shooting, Cardinal Center Campground provides access to multiple firing ranges. "We then went over to the shooting center and tried our luck with some silliolet and metal targets on the pistol range. They also have trap and skeet available," shared a camper who extended their stay due to enjoying the facilities.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Delaware State Park Campground receives high marks for its secluded campsites. A camper remarked, "The best thing about this campground is the fact that all the sites have privacy. There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground." The campground's design with separate sections arranged in a spoke pattern ensures space between sites.
Indoor pool access: Several campgrounds in the area provide swimming options regardless of weather. A visitor to Cardinal Center Campground mentioned, "They have a nice indoor pool and shower rooms attached. Also we typically shower in our camper, but since we were winterized we took advantage of the nice clean shower house."
Fishing opportunities: Kokosing River Campground offers peaceful lakeside camping with ample fishing opportunities. "Beautiful lake, nice and quiet. Lots of waterfowl," noted one reviewer. The campground's lakeside location attracts anglers and wildlife enthusiasts throughout the camping season.
What you should know
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sunbury/Columbus North KOA Holiday, a camper reported, "Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5G) seems good throughout the entire park. Best Wi-Fi I've ever had at a campground. They have Wi-Fi repeater towers everywhere you look."
Site spacing considerations: Campsite density differs dramatically between facilities. At Mt Gilead State Park Campground, a reviewer observed, "The campground was quiet and peaceful. Our site was a concrete pad and our grassy area was on a hill." Another noted, "Some of the sites are close together, especially in the site with full hookups, but not too bad."
Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), most campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. Early booking is essential for popular sites. One Delaware State Park visitor explained, "This summer my family has went to many campgrounds and by far Delaware has been our favorite. The site we were on was set back in the woods."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Mohican State Park Campground offers diverse water activities beyond traditional pools. A visitor noted, "There is nice several mile through trail that goes from the dam area following the river to the primitive camping area and then to the camper/rv camping area. During the summer I hear it gets pretty busy with people tubing on the river."
Kid-friendly amenities: Family-oriented campgrounds often include extras that keep children entertained. A Jellystone Park at Dogwood Valley visitor shared, "We camped here in 2019 and fell in love. It's a great campground with so much to do. We swam in the lake and pools. We loved the paddle boat ducks and swans."
Off-season visits: Consider camping during shoulder seasons when facilities are less crowded. A Mohican State Park camper advised, "Absolutely beautiful & great trails. Beautiful area to see in the winter & not as busy. You will mainly see people fishing for trout."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: RV sites with complete utilities are limited but available at select campgrounds. At Rustic Knolls Campground, visitors find well-maintained facilities with full hookups. "The camp sights are well maintained. I have stayed there several times, and I plan on going back. Swimming pond and fishing pond. Restrooms are all over for convenience," reported a repeat visitor.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. A reviewer at Sunbury/Columbus North KOA noted, "There's a few sites are unlevel so you may need to use your levelers and maybe some blocks, we did. Areas in the back woods are quite nice and very treed."
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality, particularly at more remote camping areas. Campers should be prepared for gravel roads at many campgrounds. At Cardinal Center, a visitor observed, "All roads are gravel except the main access road which is paved asphalt," something to consider when planning arrival and departure, especially after rain.
