Camping around Dillon Lake takes advantage of central Ohio's gently rolling terrain, sitting at approximately 740 feet above sea level in the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District. The area features several campgrounds within a 40-mile radius offering varied options for rv camping near Dillon Lake. Summer temperatures typically range between 65-85°F with moderate humidity, creating favorable camping conditions from May through September.
What to do
Fishing in local waters: The Kokosing River Campground provides access to a lake with abundant waterfowl and fishing opportunities. According to a visitor, "Beautiful lake, nice and quiet. Lots of waterfowl" while another mentioned "Kayaking on the lake is great."
Water recreation on nearby rivers: Hocking River RV Park offers riverside camping with opportunities for rafting. One camper shared, "We also just went up the highway a little to a rafting rental place called murrys landing to raft down the river. It is one of my favorite places to camp!!"
Explore Amish Country: When camping near Dillon Lake, a day trip to Amish Country is possible within a 45-minute drive. A visitor to Berlin RV Park & Campground noted it's "right in the middle of Ohio's Amish country with easy access to shopping and food and other great experiences like the large cuckoo clock in Sugar Creek."
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the region offer peaceful settings away from crowds. At Kokosing River Campground, one camper mentioned, "Nice, small, shaded, well maintained campground. Wasn't crowded when we visited in Sep."
Riverside camping spots: Several campers appreciated waterfront sites. A visitor at Riversedge Campground shared, "Our tent was right on the river and Kelli was the best host ever! On our last day she brought us warm cinnamon rolls and coffee."
Clean facilities: Cleanliness ranks high in positive reviews. A camper at Berlin RV Park & Campground reported, "SPOTLESS bathrooms and I mean SPOTLESS. Lots to do for kids: Sand Volleyball, basketball court, tetherball, corn hole area and playground."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October. Berlin RV Park & Campground specifically mentions an "Apr 1 - Dec 1" season, offering a slightly longer camping window than some others.
Varied water access: River access can be challenging at some locations. At Hocking River RV Park, a camper noted, "Figured we'd bring some swim suits since it's on the river but there really wasn't any way to the river as the bank was about 5 feet up."
Site leveling concerns: Some campgrounds require more effort for leveling. At Shadow Lake RV Resort, the terrain includes "rolling hills of Southern Ohio, which is absolutely gorgeous in October" but this topography can present leveling challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: Some locations offer more for children than others. A visitor at Whispering Hills Jellystone RV Park shared, "Great activities including mini golf, pool, jumping pad and frisbee golf."
Consider fishing options: Many kids enjoy fishing at local campgrounds. A camper at Kokosing River Campground mentioned, "Peaceful and great for kids. Kayaking on the lake is great. Camp staff very friendly and helpful."
Check for play areas: Not all campgrounds have dedicated children's facilities. One camper noted at Hocking River RV Park, "No playground which made camping with kids very uneventful for them."
Tips from RVers
Water and electric hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement. At Scenic Hills RV Park, an RVer noted, "The one and only issue is that water and electricity is located in the rear area of RV, while sewer connections are toward the front. I personally used 50' of water line and 30' of sewer line."
Shade considerations: RV sites with shade can be limited. A camper at Scenic Hills RV Park appreciated that they "Asked for a shaded area...got a perfect one that had shade all day."
Pad leveling requirements: Be prepared with leveling equipment. Berlin RV Park & Campground visitors mentioned needing to address site leveling: "We had difficulty leveling one night in lot 3 but traded to #4 the next night and did fine."
