Burr Oak State Park Campground offers multiple accommodation options within a 3,000-acre woodland preserve near Corning, Ohio. The park sits among the foothills of Appalachia at an elevation of approximately 850 feet. Local waterways including Burr Oak Lake provide year-round fishing with seasonal limitations on public swimming access.
What to do
Hiking with wildlife viewing: Explore the trail network at Lake Hope State Park Campground where natural habitats showcase diverse animal species. "The trails are superb...tall canopies, fern ground cover, a wild assortment of fungi and wildlife at every turn. The terrain is undulating but very doable," notes camper Dave V.
Fishing from multiple access points: At Hook Lake (Campground A), anglers find peaceful waterfront spots throughout the grounds. "Children up to the age of 15 are allowed to fish. Adults need to go elsewhere to fish," advises Kenpocentaur K. who mentions the campground also features an archery range.
Historical site exploration: Visit restored iron furnaces and historic structures near camping areas. "Hope furnace is just outside the campground and next to the first 'put-in' for the lake. As history buffs will know that Ohio was one of the nation's leading iron producers back in the day," explains a Lake Hope visitor.
What campers like
Secluded primitive camping: Strouds Run State Park Campground provides basic sites for those seeking minimal amenities. "In mid April 2023 I arrived late afternoon and there were TONS of spots available. Happy with the spot I picked. There was some noise from other campsites, but overall not terrible," reports Anna S.
Off-season camping opportunities: Winter stays offer a different perspective on Ohio's landscapes. "We stopped here on Thanksgiving on our way South. Self paying, off season was $15. But the restrooms were closed. There were only 3 other sides occupied," notes Birgit H. about her experience at Strouds Run.
Lake activities beyond glamping: Corning's camping areas provide water recreation alongside luxury accommodations. "Strouds is a great place to rent a paddle board, kayak, canoe, or pontoon. There are pic nic tables, a beach volley ball area, and bathrooms," recommends Lucille W.
What you should know
Shower and bathroom variability: Facilities differ widely between campgrounds, affecting comfort during extended stays. "Shower houses weren't amazing but well maintained," notes MaKenzie J. about Dillon State Park Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "Many sites are not level. Many sites have NO shade. Only Electric available at each site. Shower/bathroom facilities look to be from the 70's," cautions Gary O. about his Dillon State Park experience.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the area, with some campgrounds offering minimal reception. "This is an extremely primitive place that is not run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources... I have Verizon which is almost constant, and TMobile which is spotty. Other sites might not have as good of cell service," reports James D.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly attractions: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday offers numerous amenities specifically for children. "There is a nice swimming pool, but it wasn't open for the season yet. The shower houses were immaculate. The front office includes a little gift shop, ice cream, and pizza," explains Vicki H.
Educational wildlife programs: Nature centers provide structured learning activities for young campers. "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. They pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!" shares Chris C. about Lake Hope.
Family-sized sites: Look for campgrounds with adequate space for group activities. "The campsites were well spaced apart and a good size. You had a variety of campsites at this campground. Make sure you drive through the whole campground to find what you would like such as grassy area, overlooking lake, near the playground, etc.," suggests a Hook Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Blue Rock State Park Campground, RV campers should assess potential sites carefully. "While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain. That said, I would still recommend this as a nice weekend getaway," advises Marshall P.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "The tent site was very nice and mostly flat. There are plenty of things for the kids to do. It does cater to the RVers so not that many tent sites," notes bill R. when describing his experience at a local KOA.
Seasonal campground differences: RVers find varying amenities throughout the year. "Stayed with the family for 5 days/4 nights and had a wonderful time. The KOA had a lot of amenities to offer. The sites were nice and wide but not all level but it's an area that has lots of hills," reports afshar Y. from Hocking Hills KOA.
