Campgrounds near Concord, Ohio offer campers access to the rolling hills and wooded terrain of southwest Ohio, where elevations range from 500-900 feet above sea level. The region sits at the convergence of the Little Miami River watershed and Ohio River valley, creating diverse ecosystems for wildlife observation. Most campgrounds remain open April through October with limited winter camping options, though seasonal weather patterns can bring frequent afternoon thunderstorms in summer months.
What to do
Fossil hunting: 30 minutes from Concord, Caesar Creek State Park Campground offers a unique educational experience. "Great place to hike to a cool bridge and waterfall. We also went to a nearby pioneer village. We even got a permit to collect fossils. Great visitor centers too," shares Kenpocentaur K. The fossil collection area requires visitors to obtain a free permit first.
Bison viewing: 45 minutes away, Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground features both living history and natural science. "There is a museum and playground located on the property. You will also find a lake and a field with bison. The pool is tiny. There is also miniature golf available," notes Suzy M. The bison herd is visible from designated viewing areas along the main trail system.
Kayaking and fishing: For water activities, Tucker's Landing provides river access within 30 minutes of Concord. "This spot is perfect for RV camping and has all the hookups you need. This place sits beautifully near the river and other than some bugs is family fun for everyone," says Aidan L. Water levels on the Ohio River fluctuate seasonally, affecting launch conditions.
What campers like
Level concrete pads: At many sites, A.J. Jolly Park & Campground offers improved camping surfaces that campers appreciate. "The sites are large enough for 30 and larger RVs... Pads are about 12 x 12 concrete so that's a plus," Jeffrey D. explains. These pads help during wet weather when surrounding areas can become muddy.
Lake views: For water scenery, campers enjoy the positioning at several parks. "Sites are wooded and on lake front, lots to do!" Anna N. reports about A.J. Jolly. The lakefront sites typically fill first and should be reserved 3-6 months in advance for peak season.
Generous site spacing: Many campers note, Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers roomier sites than other regional options. "Nice place, spread out, plenty of room between sites, very little shade as they have cut down a whole lot of trees," Brandon P. observes. Sites in loops C and D measure approximately 50-60 feet deep.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Winter accessibility varies significantly between campgrounds. "Most campgrounds remain operational April through October, though East Fork, Caesar Creek, and Cowan Lake offer year-round accessibility for winter camping," a camper notes. Winterized bathhouses remain limited even at year-round facilities.
Site levelness challenges: Be prepared at certain campgrounds. "The sites are a bit small (in length) and ours (49) was very un-level, and worst of all had no shade at all," Beth H. reports about Big Bone Lick. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for most parks in the region.
Restroom conditions: Cleanliness levels at Stonelick State Park Campground receive positive mentions. "The restrooms are a quick walk and very clean. The showers and park are a small walk but also super nice," Jess H. notes. Most campgrounds feature restrooms within 300 feet of campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreation areas for convenience. "Great for family and friends to get together to camp! RVs and tents! Horses and dogs! Kayak and swim!" Barb R. mentions about Caesar Creek. Most playgrounds are concentrated in specific camping loops rather than distributed throughout.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of Jim Terrell Park for multi-use accessibility. "The Milford bike trail is part of a paved bike path that is 76 miles long. This campsite is tucked away as in across the street from the bike trail," Kenpocentaur K. explains. Educational signage along the trails identifies local plant species.
Swimming options: Check water conditions before planning water activities. "The main lake is nice you can rent kayaks canoes. Or use your own boat. The boat ramp is nice," Jeffrey D. observes about A.J. Jolly Park. Swimming beaches may close temporarily after heavy rainfall due to water quality concerns.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Know what's available at each dog-friendly campground near Concord. "Not all loops have their own bath house and the I loop where we stayed was one of them. We used the one in the H Loop," Lee D. reports about East Fork. Some electric-only sites offer water fill stations within 200 feet.
Site positioning: Consider sun exposure when booking. "We camped at site 35 and it was very slopey, our levelers only helped a little," Kara S. notes about Stonelick. Many sites face west, creating afternoon sun exposure issues during summer months.
Navigation challenges: Plan your arrival route carefully at The Landing at Bear Creek RV Park. "This is newly opened and a lot of work still needs to be done. Currently there is no dog park, hiking trails or bathhouses like it states," Elana C. cautions. GPS coordinates sometimes direct travelers to incorrect entrances at newer facilities.
