Best Campgrounds near Columbus, OH

Columbus area camping includes several state parks with different features and settings. Alum Creek State Park Campground has electric sites and good access to the reservoir for water activities. Hocking Hills State Park Campground draws many campers with its natural rock formations and hiking network through the woods. Delaware State Park Campground is clean and well-kept with plenty of things to do nearby. The campsites at these parks typically give you some space from neighbors, with trees providing shade at most locations. You'll want to reserve ahead of time if camping between May and October when these parks fill up. The spring wildflowers and fall colors make those seasons particularly nice for camping here. You can camp in winter too, but you'll need good cold-weather gear. The parks have the usual amenities like showers, tables, and play areas for kids. Both Alum Creek and Delaware are good spots if you want to bring a boat or do some fishing. Hocking Hills gets really busy during summer weekends but is much quieter in spring and fall. Check the reservation websites for availability and to see if any loops are closed for maintenance. These campgrounds put you within easy driving distance of Columbus while still feeling like you've gotten away.

Best Camping Sites Near Columbus, Ohio (89)

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Recent Reviews near Columbus, OH

659 Reviews of 89 Columbus Campgrounds



Guide to Columbus

Camping near Columbus, Ohio, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic hikes to family-friendly amenities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Hocking Hills State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Beautiful area with great hikes and views close by," making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Alum Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A visitor shared, "Excellent location for hiking Hocking Hills area," highlighting the park's diverse activities.
  • Disc Golf: If you’re into disc golf, check out Delaware State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "They put in a putt-putt course recently, had disc golf," which adds a fun twist to your camping trip.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities. A review for Caesar Creek State Park Campground stated, "The showers are clean and the staff is friendly," making it a comfortable choice for families.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers enjoy the spacious sites at Buck Creek State Park Campground. One visitor remarked, "Large park with a marina, archery range, disc golf and more," emphasizing the ample space for activities.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Mohican State Park Campground is noted for its family-friendly vibe. A camper said, "The pool is nice in the summer and the people working at check-in and at the camp store are so nice," making it a welcoming spot for families.

What you should know:

  • Close Proximity of Sites: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. A review for John Bryan State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are very close together," so be prepared for some neighborly interactions.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Hope State Park Campground, may have limited amenities. A camper noted, "The latrines smell for a good distance," so keep that in mind when choosing your spot.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Raccoons can be a nuisance at certain campgrounds. One camper at John Bryan State Park Campground warned, "The sheer number and boldness of raccoons...freaked the kids and new campers out," so secure your food properly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds with plenty of activities. Delaware State Park Campground offers a beach area and playgrounds, making it great for kids. A visitor said, "Each section has its own playground for the kids."
  • Bring a Cart for Gear: If you're camping at Hocking Hills State Park Campground, consider bringing a cart for your gear. One camper advised, "I highly recommend some sort of cart for your gear," especially for the walk-in sites.
  • Check for Events: Look for campgrounds that host events. Alum Creek State Park Campground had a trivia night and a pancake breakfast, which can be fun for the whole family.

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Make sure to choose level sites for your RV. A review for Alum Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites have level pads," which is a plus for RV camping.
  • Check Water Availability: Some campgrounds may have limited water access. A visitor at A.W. Marion State Park Campground noted, "The flush toilets are closed for the season," so plan accordingly.
  • Use GPS for Directions: When heading to Caesar Creek State Park Campground, ensure your GPS is set for the campground, as it can be tricky to find. One camper advised, "Make sure your GPS is set for the campground and not the park."

Camping near Columbus, Ohio, has a lot to offer, from beautiful parks to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Columbus, OH?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Columbus, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 89 campgrounds and RV parks near Columbus, OH and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Columbus, OH?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Columbus, OH is Alum Creek State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 77 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Columbus, OH?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Columbus, OH.

  • What parks are near Columbus, OH?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Columbus, OH that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.