Indian Lake State Park Campground offers a variety of camping experiences from primitive tent sites to RV hookups within 15 miles of Zanesfield, Ohio. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet in west-central Ohio, surrounded by gently rolling farmland. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s while summer days reach the 80s with moderate humidity, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking trails and nature exploration: Buck Creek State Park provides opportunities for outdoor activities beyond water recreation. "We went in April so the water stuff wasn't open. It does have a lake with paddle boats, water slide, newer playground, and pool. The staff was great! Even in April there was tons of planned events for the kids," notes one visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Fishing spots: Many campgrounds offer accessible fishing locations for all skill levels. At Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, visitors can find multiple fishing areas. "Great like campground on Ohio's biggest inland lake," reports one camper. Several parks maintain stocked ponds for reliable catch opportunities.
Archery and shooting sports: For campers interested in target sports, several facilities offer dedicated areas. The Cardinal Center Campground provides extensive shooting options. "It is the largest shooting center (clays, skeet, pistol, rifle, archery) in the state," explains one reviewer. Some campgrounds also offer archery programs specifically designed for younger campers.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate natural separation between sites. "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," writes a visitor to Delaware State Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses consistently receive positive feedback. One camper at Alum Creek State Park noted, "The sites are clean and level for the most part. I recommend taking one on the outside of the loop - near the trees."
Campground layout: The design of camping areas affects overall experience. "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," explains a Delaware State Park visitor.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences variable conditions, especially during spring and fall. "Our experience with Indian Lake was tough, unfortunately we suffered a pretty severe thunderstorm while we were tent camping, it looked like a tsunami coming in," reports one camper at Indian Lake State Park.
Site selection matters: Different sections of campgrounds offer varying experiences. "We like the B section and try to stay there when we can. There are no hiking trails or at least none that I have found and the paved trail you have to drive to as well as the disc golf course," explains one Indian Lake visitor.
Seasonal availability: Most glamping close to Zanesfield, Ohio operates seasonally. "We have been camping at Indian lake since I was a child, now we our kids there. Roomy sites, plenty of shade. Not a lot of privacy. There is a sand beach for swimming (even a separate doggy beach!) or a new in-ground pool."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Pools provide reliable swimming options when lake conditions aren't ideal. "Indian Lake State Park is my close to home camping get away. Right on Indian lake, you can enjoy the beach, boating, swimming, fishing and relaxing. Last year, the state park added a nice inground swimming pool," notes a visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events keep children engaged. "The 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," shares a Buck Creek camper.
Campground beaches: Many parks feature dedicated swimming areas. "The campground beach is an absolute must and we even got close to wildlife (aka some pesky raccoons). We love that electric is included and was helpful for plugging in fans during the hot night," writes an Alum Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional preparation. "Our pad was not level front to back so we had to adjust a little bit. The fire ring was nice but our picnic table was beat up," reports one Indian Lake visitor regarding site conditions.
Hookup variations: Full service options vary between parks and specific sites. "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50/30 AMP), level site, partially shaded in afternoon," notes a Cardinal Center camper about site amenities.
Extended-stay options: Some RVers recommend longer bookings during peak season. "We camped here in our camper in early July 2017. There are a lot of things to do in the area. We visited the Ohio Caverns. The tour is worth the money, the 'gem' mining was fun for our younger kids," explains a Buck Creek visitor.
