Dillon State Park Campground provides the primary camping destination near Dillon Lake, Ohio, offering 183 electric sites across three sections with varying degrees of shade and privacy. The campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and features cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort. Additional options within a short drive include National Road Campground, Wolfie's Campground, and LA-Z Acres Campground, all providing similar accommodation types with electric hookups, shower facilities, and trash service. Most campgrounds in the area support both tent and RV camping with designated sites, while Muskingum River State Park offers boat-in access for a different camping experience.
Many campsites require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer months when the lake attracts visitors for swimming, fishing, and boating activities. The camping season varies by location, with Dillon State Park and several others open year-round, while facilities like Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA operate seasonally from April through October. Most campgrounds provide drinking water, electric hookups, and sanitary dump stations for RVs, though amenities may be limited during off-season periods. Weather conditions can impact site quality, particularly after rainfall. A recent review noted, "If rain is predicted, the place turns into a complete mudpit, plan accordingly."
Campers consistently praise the spaciousness of sites at Dillon State Park, with many appreciating the balance of open and wooded areas. The campground features numerous recreational opportunities including disc golf, hiking trails, and water activities on the lake. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, the shower houses and bathrooms receive mixed feedback, with some noting they're "better than the one I have at home" while others mention they "need stall doors on showers and major updating." Despite occasional crowding during summer weekends, the campground's large size allows for quieter sections, particularly in Area C which is noted as the most secluded. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with one visitor mentioning, "The deer are plentiful and beautiful." The lake itself receives varied reviews, with some describing it as "nice" for fishing while others note the beach area can be "muddy and murky" after rain.
$24 - $160 / night
"Dillon Lake State Park is located about 10 miles west of Zanesville, OH in a heavily forested area. There is no road noise from the local route 146 used to access the campground."
"I camped at this state park in the very scenic rolling hills of central Ohio on a hot and sunny weekend and was happy to find plenty of shade."
$48 - $75 / night
"Not far from I-70, near the river, quiet and clean… almost too quiet."
"Doesn’t make sense to have quiet time at dark when bar nearby plays loud music outside till late."
"Up front drive thru spots abound. They love pets and keep the grounds immaculate. Small salt water pool, game roomband playground keep kids busy. A little piece of paradise."
$23 / night
"Nice spot on Muskingum River, north of Zanesville, Ohio; adjacent to historic lock 11 (no longer operational but locks down river are). Bathroom but no showers. Only water is in bathroom."
$23 - $50 / night
"Blue Rock State Park is outside Zanesville, Oh off I70. Rt 60 takes you South and then you have a choice of routes in. Good Ohio farmland scenery."
"Newer flush toilets near the group camp sites are nice. Camp store has showers for camper use. Really pretty lake!"
"Then outside is the picnic table. Due to health code rules you have to cook and do food outside of the cabin. "
"Not as close to the lake as we first thought but close enough. Will probably be back."
$24 - $52 / night
"**Salt Fork State Park of Ohio is for individual, couples or group camping. Salt Fork lake is natural spring fed water supply that fills this lake."
"Backed up to the woods, has a view of the lake, shade, privacy, hammock trees, medium size, electric, bathroom directly across the street, water and grey water dump directly across the street."
$20 - $70 / night
"There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."
"If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."
ScoutThe site is full hook-up. 30/50 amp. This site is partial tree covered and at the end of the loop. Shower house very short walk across the road. Trash dumpster across the street. This is a short site 23 foot max for RV. Has a double pad with concrete Picknick table area. Best spot on C loop.
ScoutTHIS IS AN RV CAMP. They have tent sites but they are just squares of gravel/wood. Our site was placed just feet from the ROAD you turn off of to enter the campground. Ridiculous and incredibly overpriced for what you get.
ScoutStayed at this small campground. Proof good things can come in small packages. Great spot for horse camping, they have plenty of dedicated horse stalls. Gravel pads for electric/water sites are fairly level. My review is biased a bit, 1st night I was literally the only person camping. Plenty of nearby trails. Since it was so quiet in campground I saw wildlife like deer, turkeys, and they must have a resident pileated woodpecker because I keep seeing it. Branson (staff) who checked me in was very friendly and helpful. Three shower/bathrooms are very nice up by the office. They also have some outhouse style bathrooms further back in campground. Would definitely stay again if I can snag a site.
GuideWe come back to MW each year and try to get the same sites (323-322) as they are very private with access to the water while still being super close to the store and walkable to the bathrooms:showers.
We love how peaceful it is and the play areas for kids. We’ll bring kayaks for the river which is cool but the last time it was too cold.
GuideIts free so worth it but i would not stay here again. Its not too “dispersed” its more of a parking lot + atvs driving all day if your sensitive to noise. Oh its also raining ticks here. Stayed for one night.
GuideThis is a one night stop on our way to Myrtle beach. Very nice place. We’re at site 17 with a KOA patio. Rolling hills, friendly staff. Great pizza, wings and fudge. I want to come back and spend more time here! AT&T one bar. KOA WiFi ok but expect pauses if you stream video. Steep and narrow road to enter the park.
TravelerNice and quiet. Bathroom was locked. Only one other person here. 10/10 recommend
TravelerRelatively flat; during OHV off season, one of the roads is closed, I believe to Dorr Run. This trailhead is mainly for OHV riders so there is space for a vehicle and trailer.
NOTE: I think they close the toilets every winter.
Ground is covered in snow, so I would scout it in the summer. Several parking areas along the road.
ScoutWe had a family reunion there, our camper and rented 2 cabins, made full use of the shelter house that day. It worked out so well we are booking again this year.
Dillon Lake campsites sit in the rolling hills of east-central Ohio, approximately 10 miles west of Zanesville at an elevation of around 740 feet. The lake spans 1,560 acres and was created in 1961 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Licking River for flood control. The surrounding terrain features a mix of wooded hillsides and open meadows, creating varied camping environments from secluded forest sites to more exposed hilltop locations.
Fishing opportunities: The lake offers multiple fishing spots for anglers seeking largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. Campers at Wolfie's Campground have convenient access, with one visitor noting, "Nice pool, 1/2 court basketball court, playground, laundry and store."
Hiking trails: Several paths wind through the region's forests and along waterways. A camper at Blue Rock State Park Campground shared, "The hiking was wonderful, the equestrian trails looked very nice, and the fire tower was a fun climb."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts abundant deer and other wildlife. At Dillon State Park Campground, one visitor experienced this firsthand: "My partner and I have been here for 3 days, were staying for a week. So far everyone has been friendly or keeps to themselves. The bathrooms and showers are clean and the deer are plentiful and beautiful."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between sites. At National Road Campground, visitors appreciate the layout: "Clean and comfortable. There are plenty of things to do. The ponds are stocked with fish and because it is private land no fishing license is required. Basketball courts and a playground."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower cleanliness varies by campground. One camper at LA-Z Acres Campground commented: "The facilities were nice. A lot of activities for the kids. The staff was nice. The only complaint is we are new to camping and we purchased a fifth wheel."
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from traffic noise. A visitor at National Road Campground stated: "We stayed here for two months (November and December). It is conveniently located near I-70. Only a few sites are open through the off-season months."
Reservation requirements: Most Dillon Lake camping options require advance booking, especially during summer. At Muskingum River State Park Campground, a camper noted: "Nice spot on Muskingum River, north of Zanesville, Ohio; adjacent to historic lock 11 (no longer operational but locks down river are). Bathroom but no showers. Only water is in bathroom."
Terrain challenges: Many sites have uneven ground requiring leveling equipment. A visitor at Wolfie's Campground observed: "Pull-thru site #18 was very unleveled from front-to-back; hitch was on ground and rear stabilizers were fully extended with blocks underneath."
Seasonal considerations: Facility availability changes throughout the year. A camper at National Road Campground shared: "The bathrooms are clean, but were closed at times (not sure why), but we were able to use our 5th wheel so it was not a big problem for us."
Water activities: Children enjoy swimming and fishing opportunities at various campgrounds. A visitor to Wolfie's Campground stated: "Nice place to stay! We enjoyed fishing as well as watching our child on the playground and splash pad!"
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At National Road Campground, one camper reported: "Great campground to relax. Two beautiful ponds to fish at. We got a full hookup at a very reasonable price. The owner Brian is very helpful and friendly. Not much to do, but just to enjoy the beautiful and quiet atmosphere, it is perfect. Cute little playground for the kids to play at."
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond natural features. At National Road Campground, a visitor mentioned: "My family and I were just passing through for the night, and the vibe was great. It was quiet, clean, easily accessible, and offered a wide range of amenities. Highly recommend!"
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks as many sites require adjustment. At Dillon State Park, one RVer noted: "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."
Hookup availability: Electric sites are common but full hookups are limited. A camper at Dillon State Park observed: "Area C is the most secluded area. All RV sites have 50A/30A electric. Limited sites have full hook-up. There is a dump station near the entrance. There is also a small camp store at the entrance."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. One RVer at Wolfie's Campground cautioned: "The only challenge is you don't want to meet a rig going out while you're coming in. We are a 38 foot class A and met a 36' 5th wheel on the curve at the entrance. We literally passed with less than an inch between us and I am pretty sure the 5th wheel went partially of the road."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cabins available for rent at Dillon State Park?
Yes, Dillon State Park does offer cabin rentals for visitors who prefer this accommodation option. Unlike tent or RV camping, these cabins provide more shelter and comfort while still allowing guests to enjoy the natural surroundings of the park. For a different cabin experience in the region, Toodik Family Campground Cabin & Canoeing also offers cabin rentals with amenities like a laundry room, pool, and clean bathrooms. When considering cabin options, be sure to make reservations well in advance, especially during peak season, as cabin accommodations tend to fill quickly.
What amenities are available at Dillon Lake State Park campground?
Dillon State Park Campground offers a variety of amenities in its heavily forested setting. The campground features reasonably spaced sites that provide privacy, particularly in Area C which is most popular. Amenities include water access, electric hookups, shower facilities, and restrooms. The park is located about 10 miles west of Zanesville in a quiet area with no road noise from the nearby Route 146. For comparison, nearby Muskingum River State Park Campground offers more basic amenities with bathroom facilities but no showers, and only provides water access in the bathroom area.
How do I reserve a camping spot at Dillon Lake?
To reserve a camping spot at Dillon Lake State Park, you'll need to use Ohio's state park reservation system. Reservations can be made online through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website or by phone. It's recommended to book well in advance, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Similar to Salt Fork State Park Campground, Dillon Lake accommodates both individual and group camping. Reservations typically open 6 months in advance, and you can select specific sites based on your preferences. For RV campers, there are electric sites available, though you'll want to check site dimensions to ensure your rig will fit comfortably.
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