Camping options near New Albany, Ohio spread across several established campgrounds within a 25-mile radius. Most sites in this area sit at elevations between 900-1100 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September. Winter camping remains available at select locations like Alum Creek State Park where water access may be limited from November through April.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: Many campgrounds feature dedicated pet walking trails where dogs can exercise. At Tree Haven Campground, campers appreciate "Great walking trail back through the woods. Pet friendly and the bathrooms were very nice" according to Mark G., who stayed for a full month.
Fishing opportunities: Catch and release fishing is available at several campgrounds with stocked ponds. The Cardinal Center Campground offers a stocked fishing lake with a gazebo overlooking the pond. George J. notes: "We toured the campground and found the stocked fishing lake (catch and release) the indoor swimming pool."
Water recreation: Swimming areas are common amenities during summer months. Alum Creek State Park provides multiple water access points as Jill B. explains: "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."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers value the natural separation between campsites. Alum Creek State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site privacy with Catherine noting: "The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush. Beautiful walking trails."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high among visitor priorities. The Cardinal Center Campground maintains well-kept bathroom facilities with Christi L. mentioning: "Clean baths ALWAYS" and Andrea F. adding: "We took advantage of the nice clean shower house."
Family activities: Organized events enhance weekend stays at many campgrounds. Lazy River at Granville offers regular programming as Ann L. shares: "We went with a group of 12 couples and 23 kids. There was something for everyone. At the top of our list of favorites!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds in the New Albany area book quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Sites at Scioto-Grove Metro Park have specific availability as Anna S. notes: "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river."
Weather considerations: Rain can impact camping experiences at certain locations. At Alum Creek, Jan B. cautions: "First Campground site I went to had a large mud puddle full of hornets. I asked to move site and was accommodated. It was right after a heavy rain storm."
Seasonal limitations: Some campgrounds operate with restricted seasons or have reduced services during winter. Cross Creek Camping Resort maintains seasonal variations with Dave B. reporting: "Pool looks nice, was not open yet for the season" during his spring visit.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Facilities with swimming pools typically maintain specific hours and seasonal availability. Cross Creek Camping Resort offers water recreation as Malcolm notes: "We don't use all the extra amenities like pool etc, but there seemed to be a lot to choose from for kids."
Playground options: Most family-friendly campgrounds include play structures. Tree Haven Campground provides recreation areas with Robin R. mentioning: "Nice quiet campground! Nice pool and playground!"
Themed weekends: Special event weekends offer additional activities for children. Kelly L. describes Cardinal Center: "We went the weekend it was Fall fest. Plenty of activities for the kids! Trick or treat, glow parade, decorate your own pumpkin, etc!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Full-service sites may have different configurations across campgrounds. At Berkshire Campgrounds, Pete D. shares a practical warning: "We paid $50.29 with full hook ups. Very clean, staff very nice, but guests are not allowed without registering at the office."
Site leveling requirements: Some RV sites require additional equipment for proper setup. At Cross Creek Camping Resort, Brenda M. advises: "The site is not level and our leveling system has the front wheels off the ground. Many full time units here beautiful patios and decor."
WiFi connectivity: Internet access varies widely between campgrounds. Gary G. reports from Sunbury/Columbus North KOA: "Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5G) seems good throughout the entire park. Best Wi-Fi I've ever had at a campground. They have Wi-Fi repeater towers everywhere you look."
