Dillon Lake camping areas sit within Ohio's hilly eastern terrain, approximately 13 miles northwest of Zanesville at an elevation of 737 feet. The lake covers 1,560 acres with 39 miles of shoreline and maintains stable water levels year-round. Most pet friendly camping near Dillon Lake provides dedicated amenities for animals, though policies vary between campgrounds regarding leash requirements and designated pet areas.
What to do
Fishing at stocked ponds: National Road Campground allows fishing in two stocked ponds that don't require a fishing license since they're on private land. "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," notes Terry F. in a review.
Short walking trails: Wolfie's Campground offers a brief walking path suitable for daily exercise with dogs. "Very short walking trail which my husband says 'doesn't go anywhere', lol. Riverside Park is very close to the campground, though," according to Jenny G.
Water recreation: Burr Oak State Park Campground offers multiple options for water activities during summer months. "Campers can rent pontoons or enjoy a day kayaking the lake, or swimming on the beach," states Larissa C. Many sites at the park provide direct lake access for convenient water recreation.
What campers like
Clean facilities: LA-Z Acres Campground receives consistent praise for its maintenance standards. "Really impressed. Owner took us to our site helped us get settled in and made sure we had everything we needed. Bathrooms clean pool was clean. Pond was great for fishing or just hanging out," says Angie S.
Quiet environment: Wolfie's Campground provides a peaceful setting ideal for relaxation. "Quiet and clean… almost too quiet. Campground is full but have seen very few people," notes Jenny G., making this location particularly suitable for campers with anxious pets.
Staff helpfulness: National Road Campground staff receive consistent positive feedback for their assistance and friendly demeanor. "The staff and other campers are so very nice and helpful. The camp is clean and very family oriented," shares Jessica P.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited shade coverage during summer months. At Blue Rock State Park Campground, most sites feature adequate tree cover that helps regulate temperature. During winter camping, temperatures frequently drop below freezing from November through March.
Limited wifi access: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds in the Dillon Lake area. At National Road Campground, one reviewer noted "No WiFi" with only "1 bar Verizon" service, which may impact those needing to stay connected.
Reservation requirements: Blue Rock State Park Campground operates differently based on the season. "Small campground, lower camp sites are pretty close together but it's treed and shady with a creek running through," notes Megan P. Campsites book quickly during peak summer weekends, particularly sites with water access.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Nice place to stay! We enjoyed fishing as well as watching our child on the playground and splash pad!" reports Jordan N. about National Road Campground.
Pet exercise options: Designated dog walking areas exist at many locations near Dillon Lake. Salt Fork State Park Campground offers a dedicated dog park. "Dog park!! and right on the lake!! Found this by mistake on our way out, and the dogs loved it. Access to lake, a beach, well fenced," shares Staci R.
Game rooms: Wolfie's Campground provides indoor entertainment options for rainy days. "Kids and I spent many quarters playing pool in the game room, which also has a 90's Sega arcade game," mentions Jenny G., offering an alternative when outdoor activities aren't possible.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Several campgrounds have issues with uneven sites. At National Road Campground, one reviewer noted: "Pull-thru site #18 was very unleveled from front-to-back; hitch was on ground and rear stabilizers were fully extended with blocks underneath." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most locations.
Limited full hookup sites: Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA offers complete RV services but availability varies. "Clean and well maintained sites. We arrived after the office closed, but there was a packet waiting for us at the night check-in site," notes Eric H. Calling ahead for specific hookup requirements is advised.
Off-season considerations: Many campgrounds operate with reduced services during winter months. "We stayed here for two months (November and December)... 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," mentions Darla about National Road Campground.
