Camping spots near Circleville, Ohio sit within the gently rolling terrain of the Scioto River Valley, with elevations ranging from 700 to 900 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and winters bringing occasional snowfall and temperatures in the 20s. While most campgrounds in the area close for winter, some like Jackson Lake Park maintain year-round operations with heated facilities.
What to Do
Disc golf fun: Jackson Lake Park offers an on-site disc golf course perfect for casual players. "There is a disc golf course. The nearby town Lithopolis is cute, with some local coffee and dining, as well as antique shops," notes Theresa P., who stayed in one of the park's cabins.
Lakeside activities: At Campbell Cove Camping, visitors can enjoy water recreation on Lake Logan. "We loved the location of Campbell Coves to Old Man's Cave and hiking trails. We do a family trip to the area every fall and this will be our go-to location," reports Angie J. The campground provides kayak rentals and lake access.
Hiking exploration: The Scioto Grove Metro Park trail system includes a unique rope bridge crossing. "Somewhere among the hustle and bustle and just outside Columbus you can find this hidden gem of a park in Grove City. Backpacking sites, rope bridge crossing over a creek that kids and adults would love to explore," says Karen K., highlighting the family-friendly trail features.
What Campers Like
Peaceful lake access: Sun Valley Campground receives high marks for its tranquil setting. "This campground has a lot to offer with electric and water hookups for RVs with back-in and pull through sites. They have a dump station as well as an onsite bathroom/shower house," explains Andrew S., who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Free backpacking experience: Scioto Grove Metro Park offers no-cost tent sites for weekend backpackers. "Free reserve ahead weekend backpacking campsites. All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided. Some have log seating and some do not," explains Susan G., noting the convenient amenities despite the primitive setting.
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings at Tar Hollow State Park provide opportunities for animal observation. "Beautiful, secluded group camping. Shelter and pit bathrooms. Wide open space for lots of campers. Nice access to trails. Beach area is clean & small little lake," shares Renée C., though she cautions, "They also have a thriving Timber Rattlesnake population. Watch your steps."
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have poor or non-existent cell coverage. At Tar Hollow State Park, Sydney reports, "There is no cell service. Be sure to give anyone who may need to contact you a heads up."
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility cleanliness differs significantly between campgrounds. At A.W. Marion State Park, Karen H. notes, "I would give it a higher rating but there are no showers, concrete floored, hole in the ground 'outhouses' (one men's, one woman's) by the playground and port-a-johns at the other end of the campground."
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds require advance booking, especially for premium sites. "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park," shares Anna S. about Scioto Grove Metro Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Top O' The Caves Campground offers multiple recreation options. "It has mini golf, a pool, park and small game room which is awesome for camping with kids. It offers rustic cabins for those that dont tent camp or have a rv," recommends Kelli W., who enjoyed the variety of activities available.
Consider cabin options: Several campgrounds offer basic cabins as alternatives to tent camping. "We stayed in one of the rustic cabins. With other family members bringing their RVs. The bathroom facilities were some of the nicest and cleanest we've experienced," reports Angie J. about Campbell Cove Camping.
Check for swimming areas: Water features make for popular family destinations. "The lake has a sand beach and designated swim area. It is blocked off from the rest of the lake by a wooden dock from which you are able to shallow dive (it's only seven or eight feet deep)," explains Jonathan W. about Tar Hollow State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Alum Creek State Park Campground, privacy between sites stands out as a benefit. "Space and Privacy...the two things that bring me back to this campground year after year. We have never had a 'bad' campsite at the Alum Creek State Park Campground. Each camping space is separated by trees and brush," shares Sandy O.
Check hookup availability: Utilities vary between campgrounds and specific sites. "We appreciated the full hook-ups and pull through site. The staff came through every morning to pick up the trash. But, the water hook ups were accessible through a hole/pipe and we had to 'fish' down to connect our hose," Chris C. mentions about Jackson Lake Park.
Be prepared for weather impacts: Some sites have drainage issues during rainy periods. Jill B. warns about Alum Creek State Park Campground: "First Campground site I went to had a large mud puddle full of hornets. I asked to move site and was accommodated. It was right after a heavy rain storm and so maybe it was just a fluke."
