Dillon Lake features a 1,360-acre water body surrounded by rolling wooded hills in eastern Ohio's Muskingum County. The area sits at approximately 740 feet elevation with a humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Winter camping remains available at select locations with some offering reduced amenities between November and March, while summer temperatures regularly reach into the high 80s.
What to do
Watercraft activities: Dillon Lake offers boating opportunities with several launch points around the shoreline. "We did not make it down to the lake yet, but so far I'm a happy camper," notes Ron A. about the area near Dillon State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Trails range from easy walking paths to more challenging routes through forested areas. "The hiking was wonderful, the equestrian trails looked very nice, and the fire tower was a fun climb," reports Ryan W. from his experience at Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Horseback riding: Several dedicated equestrian trails wind through the region. "Great great campground plenty to Joe we took the horses had a blast," shares Cheryl C. about Walkabout Creek Horsemans Camp. The Blue Rock State Park region includes equestrian-friendly paths that connect with broader trail networks.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Dillon Lake support diverse wildlife populations. "The deer are plentiful and beautiful," mentions Andrea H. about her stay at Dillon State Park Campground.
Secluded areas: Certain campground sections offer more privacy. "Go to the back of the campground. It is very quiet," advises John L. about Salt Fork State Park Campground, which shares similar terrain features with Dillon Lake area campgrounds.
Non-electric options: For those seeking more rustic experiences, some campgrounds provide non-electric sites. "Area C is the most secluded area. All RV sites have 50A/30A electric. Limited sites have full hook-up," explains Brian B. about his Dillon Lake camping experience.
What you should know
Reservation importance: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (May-September). "It was just a quick overnighter, but we did take a little time to walk and bird. The campground was 80% empty, very quiet except for some late-night traffic on the county road nearby," reports Brian M. from a spring visit to Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Site terrain: Many sites throughout the region require leveling equipment. "Small campground, lower camp sites are pretty close together but it's treed and shady with a creek running through," explains Megan P. about Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Horse camp etiquette: When using designated equestrian campgrounds, respect facilities designed for horses. "Very quiet campground with little to no other riders around. Only complaint would be the non equestrians staying in the equestrian area," notes Janessa S. about Blue Rock State Park's equestrian facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Comfort stations vary widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms on the campsite we stayed in were atrocious! I've never smelled anything so bad in my life and dirty, dirty, dirty!" cautions Nicole F. about her experience at Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Educational programs: Some parks offer naturalist-led activities. "The activities with the naturalist (Cayden) were fun and engaging," shares Ryan W. about Blue Rock State Park programming.
Beach considerations: Water quality notifications may affect swimming plans. "We did not swim due to frequency of E-Coli warnings at this lake which was disappointing as it was very warm and we would have enjoyed a cool lake swim," notes Linda B. about Dillon Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific needs. "Site required minimal leveling. We were on like a hilltop and overlooked lower level RV circle," explains Linda B. about Dillon State Park Campground.
Water access: Potable water locations can affect site selection. "We were by a water spout and every time an RV/Trailer came in they of course had to fill up. Check a campground map and try to avoid these sites," advises Linda B. from her experience at Dillon State Park.
Pull-through availability: Some horse campgrounds accommodate RVs with pull-through sites. "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)," reports Tammy F. about her stay at Old Stone Church Campground.
