Cabin camping near Circleville, Ohio provides access to the rolling hills of south-central Ohio where elevations range from 600 to 1,300 feet. The region experiences all four seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the 80s and winter lows often below freezing. Cell phone coverage can be notably spotty throughout the Hocking Hills region, with some campgrounds recommending visitors download maps in advance.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, visitors gain access to numerous trails leading to dramatic geological features. "Out-of-staters are unaware of the incredible beauty that Hocking Hills brings to Ohio. I can return time and time again and still be in awe of the waterfalls, cliffs and coves of Hocking Hills," reports one camper.
Fishing and boating: Campbell Cove Camping offers lakeside sites with water access. "Our favorite place to camp. Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," notes a regular visitor. Boat rentals are available at many properties.
Miniature golf and arcade games: Several campgrounds feature family recreation areas with vintage games. As one visitor to Top O' The Caves Campground explains, "Older campgrounds with a lot of things to do. Put put golf and a fun small arcade, although dated, were great for down times inbetween hikes."
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: For tent campers seeking more privacy, Tar Hollow State Park Campground offers a distinct experience. "The primitive camping is at the North Ridge campsite at the top of the hill to the north of the lake. There is a single gravel parking lot here, and you are carrying your gear in at most 100 yards, up hill, to the farthest spot," explains one visitor.
Swimming areas: Many campgrounds maintain swimming beaches or pools. At Jackson Lake Park, "There is a 'lake' (more of a large pond) on the property, with fishing, and large inflatables to play on in the summer. There is also a disc golf course."
Modern cabin options: Beyond basic shelters, some properties offer substantial accommodations. "I chose to stay in a cabin, which was pretty pricy for what it was. For $175, it was a basic cabin with a queen bed and 2 twin bunk-beds, a very small bathroom with a toilet and shower, and a small kitchenette with a microwave, sink, and mini-fridge," reports a visitor to Jackson Lake Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals near Circleville operate seasonally. Deer Creek Camping Resort and similar properties typically close from late fall through early spring. "The lake was pretty. Watching the herons was relaxing," notes one visitor about the warmer months.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From rustic outhouses to modern showers, bathroom quality differs significantly between properties. "The bathrooms are pit latrines. Normally, I wouldn't be too concerned about this (you're camping! it's cool to rough it a bit!) However...these are some of the dirtiest I've experienced," reports one Tar Hollow camper.
Rainy weather challenges: Some properties experience drainage issues after heavy rains. "Two of our sites were so flooded you'd struggle to find enough dry area to pitch our tent. No way you could park a travel trailer, it was an absolute mud pit," reports one visitor to Hocking Hills Camping & Canoe.
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to playgrounds: Select cabin locations near recreation areas for convenience. Hocking Hills KOA Holiday receives high marks from families for its amenities. "Amazing campground! Professional and friendly staff! Nice good size sites. Very clean bathhouse. Excellent views. Great WiFi! Close to Old Mans Cave," writes one visitor.
Cabin occupancy limits: Most rental cabins sleep 4-6 people maximum. "The design is nice as the bunk beds are in their own separate room. This means the back room will sleep four individuals," notes a KOA visitor about cabin layouts.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for properties with structured recreation. "The campground put on a free BBQ for all of the guests one of the nights! It was very good and well thought out. They also put on a very long firework show that night which was awesome!" reports a Top O' The Caves camper.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: While many properties offer cabins, RV sites with complete utilities may be limited. As one RV camper at Alum Creek State Park Campground notes, "All sorts of camping is covered: RVing, trailer camping, and tent camping at electric sites, and primitive tent camping at several locations."
Site leveling: The hilly terrain of the region means many sites require leveling. "Sites are reasonably level, we had to use one 3/4" leveler under the wheels in one side," explains a visitor to Hocking Hills KOA Holiday.
Winter access roads: Properties open year-round may have limited road maintenance during winter months. "The road across the lake has an uphill section and people like to race up it. Trucks, motorcycles and cars. Really loud," notes one Campbell Cove visitor about road conditions.
