Glamping experiences near Dover, Ohio sit among rolling hills and wooded landscapes within Tuscarawas County. The region features numerous water recreation opportunities with lakes including Atwood, Tappan, and Salt Fork offering diverse terrain for campers. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F while fall camping season brings cooler 50-65°F temperatures and colorful foliage displays throughout the area.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Atwood Lake Park Campground, waterfront sites include docks directly accessible from campsites. "We could leave our camper, take the boat over to the beach and drop off the grandkids and me the Nana for swimming at the beach dock. Good fishing, clean clean clean," notes Susan S.
Basketball and volleyball: Tappan Lake Park Campground maintains courts that stay in good condition throughout the season. According to a camper, "Volleyball courts, and basketball courts were all in good condition. Plenty of hiking trails throughout the park."
Horseback riding options: The Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch offers on-site equestrian activities not commonly found at other area campgrounds. "Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly," shares Bradley B.
Wildlife viewing trails: Multiple hiking paths provide opportunities to spot local wildlife including deer and wild turkey. One Salt Fork camper reported, "Just driving in saw turkeys and 'turkets' and two 6 point bucks. You can hike, swim, boat, bike and horseback ride."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Berlin RV Park & Campground receives consistent praise for their impeccable bathrooms. "SPOTLESS bathrooms and I mean SPOTLESS. Lots to do for kids: Sand Volleyball, basketball court, tetherball, corn hole area and playground," writes Tara T.
Water recreation proximity: Campgrounds with direct lake access remain the most popular. A camper at Atwood Lake Park noted, "Location, location, location! Grab a lake front spot and just hang out there! The park is in excellent condition and the facilities are just as clean and comfortable."
Family-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds organize structured activities for children. "My kids and I have been coming to Atwood for the last 10 years. We look forward to it every summer. The people are friendly and there is always something to do!!" shares Leslie C.
Amish Country proximity: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring nearby Amish attractions. According to Kenny C. at Berlin RV Park, "Spent the weekend here while visiting Amish country in Ohio. For the most part it is just a place to park your camper in a big open area while visiting the area."
What you should know
Site differences can be significant: Not all sites offer equal experiences, especially for tent campers. "This campground is HUGE (more than 500 sites), and it's absolutely jam packed with RVs and permanent trailers... Definitely not recommended for tent campers," warns Cassandra C. about Atwood Lake Park.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds experience water issues. As one camper noted at Clay's Resort, "The water smelled horrible, and both the shower head and faucet were caked with scum. My kids begged not to have to take a shower because of the smell."
Seasonal crowds: Popular glamping destinations near Dover become extremely busy during peak summer weekends. Amy S. at Tappan Lake warns, "It was really crowded and the campers stayed up all night talking, screaming and listening to music."
Limited services nearby: Some locations require advance planning for supplies. "Make sure you don't forget anything or need gas, not much around," advises Aloma O. about Tappan Lake Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach facilities: Salt Fork State Park Campground offers dedicated swimming areas though timing matters. "The lifeguards shut it down every half hour or so for break instead of rotating in and out," reports Theodore C.
Kid-friendly trails: Multiple hiking options suitable for various ages exist throughout the region. One visitor to Salt Fork notes, "There are several areas to pay for camping as well as primitive camp. It's near the water and they offer several trails."
Pet-friendly options: Most glamping sites near Dover welcome pets with specific restrictions. "Pets welcome on a leash, a beach and hiking also," mentions Susan S. about Atwood Lake.
Nature programs: Several parks offer educational opportunities. At Salt Fork, "The park has several Chestnut trees which is usually a rare find these days. They are working to bring them back."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Woods Tall Timber Resort provides comprehensive services for larger rigs. One reviewer reports, "Such a beauty, even with a large RV we were accommodated. Lots of fun activities, and the trees are tall!"
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. A camper at Tappan Lake noted, "We stayed in area 5. Awesome place," while another mentioned, "Sites are new, clean, full hookups, with plenty of paved surfaces to park. Camper sites are level and the hookups are new and easy to use."
Seasonal considerations: Several campgrounds operate with limited services during shoulder seasons. As one visitor to Tappan Lake mentioned, "It was late October so most things were closed. We'll definitely be back in 2024."
Site selection strategy: Waterfront locations typically offer the best experiences but book quickly. Fred R. advises, "Nice to see sailboats on the lake. All new camping spots with full hookup. Grass is coming in nicely."
