Ohio campgrounds near Columbiana offer diverse terrain for camping, with the area sitting at approximately 1,100 feet elevation in the Appalachian foothills region. Weather patterns can fluctuate significantly between early May and late October, with temperature swings of up to 30 degrees between morning and evening hours in spring and fall. Cell service varies widely throughout the region's campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Guilford Lake State Park Campground provides access to a calm lake perfect for anglers. "Flat and quiet lake for paddlers. All sites are electric. Potable water on site. Dump station on site. Showers and restrooms open 24 hours," notes one camper. The park also offers kayak and paddleboard rentals at their camp store.
Water recreation: Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins features numerous water activities during summer months. "TONS of stuff to do here. Very big campground, all kinds of sites. Inflatable slides and such in the lake, hiking trials, playgrounds, all sorts of stuff," writes a visitor. The lake includes kayaking, paddle boarding, and inflatable water attractions.
Short hiking trails: Several campgrounds maintain walking paths connecting to local natural areas. At Countryside Campground, "There is a nice path through the woods down to the reservoir, where you can fish and kayak," according to a reviewer. These trails typically range from 0.25-1.5 miles in length and offer moderate difficulty levels.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground earns praise for its well-maintained grounds. "When I first got here the 2 owners went above and beyond in so many ways. Unfortunately they didn't have a 50 amp site available so the owner gave me 30 amp converter at no cost and also helped me hook up my gray water and black water connections," reports a satisfied camper.
Quiet atmosphere: Certain campgrounds enforce noise restrictions. A camper at Countryside Campground shares, "This is easily one of the most beautiful and well kept campgrounds we've stayed at. We spent a long weekend in a pull thru site. The bathrooms were clean, the showers were nice and the pool was well kept."
Swimming options: Multiple rv parks near Columbiana feature swimming areas. "Great campground with ample parking space. Rec hall, playground, dog park. Propane is on site," notes a visitor to Countryside Campground. Swimming facilities range from natural lake beaches to maintained pools with varying seasonal availability.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most Columbiana area campgrounds operate from May through October. Kool Lakes Family RV Park runs from May 1 to October 15, while several others extend slightly longer into fall. A visitor to RV Village notes, "This by far the nicest family campground that we stayed in. They took us in at last minute on Memorial Day weekend and then we got the greatest spot available for a very reasonable price."
Challenging access roads: Some campgrounds have difficult approach routes. A visitor cautions about Austin Lake: "Be advised it will seem a little sketchy getting in. The road dead-ends into the campground and it is all downhill getting there." Another mentions, "As mentioned in other reviews, the road in can be a little sketchy, but I think it adds to the adventure and once you are there, wow."
Variable amenities: Roundup Lake RV Resort and similar facilities offer different amenities depending on season and site type. "Net/net, given the proximity to Cleveland and Cuyahoga National Park, and since we have no kids, we would stay here again, outside of the main summer season," notes one visitor. Always check which facilities are operating during your planned visit.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Many Columbiana area rv parks maintain child-friendly facilities. "The kids were trick or treating to each camp spot," notes a visitor to Countryside Campground, highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere. Most playgrounds are centrally located within campgrounds, making them accessible from multiple camping loops.
Look for scheduled activities: Valley View Campground and other sites often organize weekend events. One camper at Roundup Lake reports, "The themed weekends throughout the season are fun and festive and there are a lot of activities to do and participate!" These activities typically occur Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons.
Consider proximity to bathrooms: When tent camping with children, bathroom location matters. "We were camping in a tent and were really happy that the bathrooms were close to the tenting area," notes a visitor to Chestnut Ridge. Most campgrounds position restroom facilities within 150-300 feet of tent camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds provide gravel sites requiring adjustment. "We stayed in a 29'TT, 3 kids, 2 dogs. Well kept smaller campground. Sites are level side to side, lots are pretty tight in that area," notes a visitor to Countryside Campground. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended at most sites.
Electrical service variations: Different campgrounds offer varying amp service. A camper at Chestnut Ridge reports, "Unfortunately they didn't have a 50 amp site available so the owner gave me 30 amp converter at no cost." Always confirm electrical specifications when making reservations at rv parks near Columbiana, Ohio.
Arrival timing considerations: Several campgrounds have congested access during peak check-in hours. "Advice - get there early or you'll have many vehicles and campers to watch for as you back in!" recommends a Countryside Campground visitor. Friday afternoon arrivals between 3-6pm typically experience the highest congestion.
