Camping sites near Bremen, Ohio provide direct access to the varied terrain of southeastern Ohio's state parks and forests. The region sits at elevations between 800-1,100 feet, with seasonal temperature variations that can reach 90°F in summer and drop below freezing in winter. Several campgrounds maintain full operations from April through October, with limited winter camping options available at select locations like Burr Oak State Park where sites remain open year-round.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Logan: At Campbell Cove Camping, visitors can experience the lake firsthand. "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view," notes Ann H., highlighting the water access that brings many campers to the area.
Nighttime river tours: Hocking Hills Camping & Canoe offers unique evening experiences on the water. "I went on the torch light canoe trip on 8/18/18. The basic set-up is a standard canoe with a tiki torch in the back of it. You set off at 7:30-8pm," shares Betsy B., describing one of the region's distinctive water activities.
Hiking the Blue Trail: The trail system at Burr Oak State Park offers multiple hiking options for different skill levels. "The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike," notes Sarah G., describing the accessibility of trails from the group camping areas.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature designated swimming areas beyond the state park beaches. "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole. The bathrooms are so clean. You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals," reports Brianna L. about the family-friendly water features at Campbell Cove.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers frequently mention the value of riverside camping spots. "Primitive camping and you can pick a spot right on the river. We were able to walk down from the site and swim. Sites are big enough and plenty of space from neighbors," says Danielle T. about her experience at Hocking Hills Camping & Canoe.
Clean facilities: Big Sycamore Family Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "The shower house and bathrooms were clean and adequate. There is a small playground for kids. It is pet friendly. There is a nice sized pool for summer," reports Amber R., highlighting the attention to cleanliness.
Proximity to trails: The region's campgrounds provide strategic access to hiking destinations. "There is a path directly from our site that led to one of the hiking trails," notes Shannon G. about A.W. Marion State Park, describing the convenience of trail access directly from campsites.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal operations, some campgrounds remain open year-round. "A cold but sunny weekend in February at site #32. No other campers there for the weekend, but a lot of foot traffic," reports Shannon G., describing the solitude of off-season camping at A.W. Marion.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, careful site selection can greatly impact your experience. "Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites!" warns Amanda P., highlighting the importance of understanding site descriptions.
Weather impacts: Rain can significantly affect camping conditions at certain locations. "Decent sites, some retained water days after the rain," notes Joe B. about Big Sycamore Family Campground, indicating potential drainage issues.
Weekend crowds: Popularity varies significantly by season and day of week. "Hike in the early morning to beat the crowds," advises a frequent visitor, with others noting quieter conditions during weekdays throughout spring and fall.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful driving. "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township," explains Vicki H. about the approach to Hocking Hills KOA, recommending slow driving for trailers and RVs.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity centers: Hocking Hills KOA Holiday offers family-friendly amenities beyond basic camping. "There are plenty of things for the kids to do. It does cater to the RVers so not that many tent sites," explains Bill R., highlighting the campground's recreational offerings.
Cabin options: For families new to camping or seeking more comfort, several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations. "The little cabins you can rent out are awesome! They have bunk beds in them and are just enough to have shelter to sleep in and then spend the day outside," shares Emily M. about her experience at Buckeye Lake KOA.
Site spacing considerations: Family groups often need more space than standard sites provide. "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike. Not good with kids," notes Jenny K. about Hocking Hills State Park, suggesting families look for more spacious options.
Water-based activities: Lakeside locations provide built-in entertainment for children. "There is a nice looking swimming pool and a pretty nice looking playground. There's a somewhat small swimming area, but it seems to be pretty clean for a pond," reports Kevin C. about Campbell Cove Camping.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA provides insights about leveling challenges. "Our site was muddy when we arrived and only got worse due to only having 2 days with no rain. That said it was one of the widest in the strip and would have suited us and our pups just fine," notes Kelley M. about managing site conditions.
Hookup variations: RV sites across the region offer different levels of service. "Electric hookup only. Shower and restroom facility provided very clean and orderly campsite also very clean," reports Bill V. about Hocking River RV Park, clarifying the basic hookup situation.
Off-season considerations: For RVers considering extended stays, seasonal transitions affect available services. "All in all it was a convenient location to visit with family and wrap up some vital items before heading south for the winter," shares Kelley M. about Buckeye Lake KOA's accessibility during shoulder season.
Site spacing: RV sites at different campgrounds provide varying degrees of privacy. "The sites aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave," notes Elana C. about the proximity of RV sites at Hocking Hills State Park.
