Columbus camping areas stretch across 3,100 acres of parkland within 20 miles of the city center. Most campgrounds near Columbus, Ohio sit at elevations between 780-900 feet with mild summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping isn't common as several facilities close between November and April when temperatures drop below freezing.
What to do
Backpacking practice trails: Scioto Grove Metro Park offers 5 reservable backpacking sites along a short trail system for testing gear. "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit, besides that they're totally primitive," according to Zach.
Mountain biking: Alum Creek State Park Campground provides access to dedicated mountain biking trails within the park boundaries. "There is a great dog park with lake entrance for the pups. There is also some mountain bike trails. Plenty to do for everyone," notes Jill B.
Fishing opportunities: Jackson Lake Park offers fishing in their large pond. "Awesome place. Great fishing," reports Neal C. about the recreational opportunities at the property, which provides both shoreline access and deeper water areas.
What campers like
Fire ring amenities: Cross Creek Camping Resort provides well-maintained fire pits at each site. "We were there for the Halloween weekend and it was amazing. Can't wait to go back," says Lauri C. who enjoyed the seasonal activities and fire ring setup.
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate separation between camping spots at many Columbus-area locations. "The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush. Beautiful walking trails," notes Catherine about Alum Creek State Park Campground.
Free camping supplies: Scioto Grove Metro Park provides complimentary firewood at its primitive sites. "Each site has it's own personality we picked the further out sites of 6 as less foot traffic by park visitors," explains Kenpocentaur K. who also mentioned the free firewood amenity.
What you should know
Limited seasonal availability: Many Columbus-area campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I'm sure it's pretty and all, but it's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio!" says Joaquim P. about Scioto Grove's limited availability.
Reservation requirements: Sites fill quickly, especially at popular parks. "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 securing a prime waterfront location.
Facility condition variations: Korbel Campgrounds has inconsistent bathroom maintenance. "Definitely isn't cleaned as much as it could be. Only the female restroom was unlocked and it was pretty ratchet," reports Cody R., though they still rated their experience positively overall.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Tree Haven Campground offers a swimming pool that's well-maintained for children. "Very nice pool(clean). Great walking trail back through the woods. Pet friendly and the bathrooms were very nice," notes Mark G. about their family-friendly amenities.
Campground activities: Many Columbus-area campgrounds schedule regular events for children. "They have pancake breakfast on Saturday mornings through summer and doughnuts on Sunday. Helpful camphost," shares Jill B. about the structured activities at Alum Creek.
Beach options: Jackson Lake Park provides a swimming area with inflatables during summer months. "My children were upset we had to leave early due to the storm coming in," explains samantha H., indicating how much her kids enjoyed the swimming amenities.
Tips from RVers
Weather considerations: A.W. Marion State Park Campground can present challenges after rain. "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," explains Jan B.
Dog-friendly trails: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Columbus provide dedicated pet exercise areas. "This place is huge, tons of paths for walking and exploring. Also features mini golf, volleyball, basketball, an in-ground pool and a pond. Our favorite part was the off leash dog trails," shares jess about Berkshire Campgrounds.
Hookup variations: Some Columbus campgrounds have limited utilities during winter. "Nov 1 - Apr 1, no water is available," notes the listing for Korbel Campgrounds, while Linda G. reports, "Full hookups. Park on grass site, level. We like this kind of basic camping as we have a motorhome and use our own facilities."
