Camping options near Dublin, Ohio concentrate around several state parks within a 30-60 minute drive. The central Ohio region features gently rolling terrain with elevations averaging around 900 feet and a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity, creating favorable camping conditions from May through October at most area campgrounds.
What to do
Beach activities: Alum Creek State Park Campground features both a smaller campground beach and a larger public beach for swimming. "We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must and we even got close to wildlife (aka some pesky raccoons)," notes Jenny C.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes and reservoirs provide good fishing throughout the season. At Alum Creek, one camper shared, "There is a campground beach and boat launch. Lost of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area. A great dog park with lake entrance for the pups."
Trails exploration: Delaware State Park Campground offers multiple hiking options with interconnected paths. "There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground," according to Maddy B. The trails accommodate hikers of various abilities with most being under 3 miles long.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at Delaware State Park. "This is probably our favourite state park we have been to thus far. The best thing about this campground is the fact that all the sites have privacy," reports one camper.
Clean facilities: Buck Creek State Park Campground earns positive reviews for its well-maintained shower facilities. "Showers were very nice and clean. Several water spickets throughout the park if you needed to access them," mentions Lisa M.
No-wake zones: Kiser Lake State Park Campground offers a peaceful setting for non-motorized watercraft. "This park is know for the lake that is kayak and canoe friendly since it doesn't allow any kind of boat with a motor," explains Andrea F., making it ideal for paddlers seeking calm waters.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most state parks in the area require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. "Must reserve online as they are still doing everything virtual," notes a Buck Creek visitor.
Limited horse facilities: While searching for horse campgrounds near Dublin, Ohio, equestrians should note that none of the state parks offer dedicated overnight horse camping. Multiple bridle trails exist for day use, but horses cannot stay overnight at the campgrounds.
Event campgrounds: Korbel Campgrounds at Ohio Expo Center serves primarily as an event parking area rather than a traditional campground. "Great spot for Columbus events. Stayed here for a concert next door at Historic Crew Stadium," reports Cody R., highlighting its urban convenience rather than natural setting.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Delaware State Park features multiple playgrounds distributed across the camping areas. "There is a playground in each of the 4 sections for kids to play with a remodel shower house at each one," Joe I. shares.
Weekend activities: Buck Creek organizes regular programming for children during peak season. "Camp host on I think lot 71 or there about were great at keeping the activities going. Every night there was a movie and you could buy root beer floats for $1!! And the kids loved it," explains Melissa M.
Level terrain: Family biking is popular due to the mostly flat landscape. "My sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes," notes a Buck B. about Buck Creek's family-friendly layout.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: For RVs at Delaware State Park, the pod layout creates spacious options. "The campground is setup in a nice layout with each of the separate sections having a spoke and wheel layout with a bathhouse in the middle. Sites are roomy and we like the wooded feel," advises Marshall P.
Weather considerations: Several campgrounds have reported flooding issues after heavy rain. "Sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," cautions Katelyn P. about Alum Creek.
Full hookup limitations: Most state parks offer electric-only hookups with dump stations. "The campground has no full hookups but does have electric. RV sites have a view of the lake. Sites are clean and paved," explains Aaliya B. about the setup at Kiser Lake State Park.
