Glamping accommodations near Covington, Ohio provide access to outdoor recreation within 60 miles of the city. The region features several state parks surrounding Covington, with elevations ranging from 850-1,100 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with average summer temperatures reaching 85°F and winter lows dropping to 20°F, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Swimming and fishing spots: Buck Creek State Park Campground offers two swimming beaches—a public one and a smaller one in the campground. According to Leon H., "There are a lot of things to do in the area. We visited the Ohio Caverns. The tour is worth the money, the 'gem' mining was fun for our younger kids."
Kayaking and boating: Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground provides water access to both Brookville and Whitewater lakes. "Whitewater Memorial State Park is located close to Liberty Indiana and is our favorite between the two major parks on Brookville Lake. Many fishermen and kayakers frequent the lake trails," shares Brandie B.
Hiking trails: Buck Creek State Park features multiple trails that are family-friendly. One camper mentioned, "My sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes." The trails are accessible directly from the campground, making them convenient for day hikes without driving.
Miniature golf and recreational activities: Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA has a variety of on-site activities. "They have gaga ball, a basketball court, a laundry area. The roads are gravel and they do have a swimming pool in the summer," notes Candace H. The campground also features a jump pad for kids.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Wildcat Woods Campgrounds stands out for its pristine bathrooms. Kelly reports, "They have the nicest cleanest camp bathrooms/shower house I've ever seen. Fishing, pond swimming, trails." The cleanliness extends to shower facilities, which can be important after outdoor activities.
Spacious sites: Indian Lake State Park Campground offers large camping areas. Jamie L. notes, "Roomy sites, plenty of shade. Not a lot of privacy. There is a sand beach for swimming (even a separate doggy beach!) or a new in-ground pool."
Privacy in tent areas: At Buck Creek State Park Campground, the non-electric sections tend to be quieter. Amanda P. states, "Over a late-August weekend, we found the non-electric loop to be pretty quiet and uncrowded. The grounds are level and grassy, with trees that provide partial shade."
Activities for kids: Grand Lake St. Marys State Park features numerous family-oriented facilities. "Great sites, awesome new pool. Lake isn't able to be swam in, but we aren't lake people so it's ok," mentions Cyndi L. The park also includes splash pads and playgrounds for children.
What you should know
Water conditions vary by location: At Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, swimming in the lake may be restricted. One visitor cautions, "The entire lake stinks of pig poop. All the air smells like poo. You feel like you are breathing feces when you approach the water." The park offers a pool as an alternative to lake swimming.
Site privacy considerations: At Hueston Woods State Park Campground, the campground layout affects your experience. Dave V. explains, "All campground sites are line of sight, no barriers or buffer between neighbors. The trees are mature and tall so offer no privacy. Noise/sound travels so when full, you'll likely hear your neighbors conversations."
Highway noise levels: Richmond KOA's proximity to major roads affects the camping experience. Julie E. notes, "Nice people and beautiful sites. It's really close to the highway and LOUD! I like to hear nature when I came to destress not semis all night long."
Seasonal conditions: The tent camping areas at Hueston Woods State Park have different bathroom facilities. "In my tent area...antiquated wood shed pit latrines...that truly needed razed," reports one visitor, while noting that "In the larger non-electric loop newer restrooms existed."
Tips for camping with families
Beach alternatives: Grand Lake St. Marys State Park offers a pool and splash pad for families concerned about lake water quality. Ashleigh D. states, "Has a pool, playground, putt putt golf, boat docks, hiking trails, and some other great amenities. Has group camping area and cabins."
Playground proximity: At Indian Lake, campsite selection can make a difference for families. Melissa M. advises, "There is a path to the playground which the occasional kid will run down into your campsite by accident. The campground was quiet by 10pm every night we were there and most people seemed to be in bed early."
Introductory camping site: Buck Creek State Park works well for first-time campers. Jason M. suggests, "Nothing out of the ordinary, but if you are looking for an introduction to camping, this would be a great place to start." The level sites and accessible facilities make it beginner-friendly.
Weekend activities: Natural Springs Resort organizes regular events for children. According to Daniele M., the resort features "weekend activities and even a small camp store with grill/ice cream inside. Polite staff, family feel lots of play grounds!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: At Indian Lake State Park, preparation for uneven sites is important. Shannon G. notes, "Our pad was not level front to back so we had to adjust a little bit. The fire ring was nice but our picnic table was beat up." Bringing additional leveling blocks can help with this issue.
Campsite selection: At Wapakoneta KOA, positioning matters for larger rigs. Ryan W. explains, "Had a back-in, water/electric spot that was roomy as we were on an end. Wood deck, picnic table, and fire ring included." End sites typically offer more space for RV awnings and outdoor setups.
Amenities access: At Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA, RVers appreciate certain conveniences. Joel R. points out, "The showers, bathrooms and laundry were all clean and neat. They have a pool (not open when we visited). Also a large playground, jumping pad and a small store." Some sites include cable TV hookups, which is uncommon at state parks.
Hookup variations: At Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground, RVers should verify site amenities when booking. The campground has both electric-only and full-hookup sites, with new pit toilets that are "very clean and potable water stations are located throughout campgrounds," according to John F.
