Buck Creek State Park Campground features 108 campsites with level, grassy grounds and trees providing partial shade at the non-electric sites. The park offers both standard and deluxe glamping options near Dayton, Ohio, with quick access to a reservoir for water activities. Campers can enjoy a tent-only section in the non-electric loop for a quieter experience. During summer, the campground can get busy, especially on holiday weekends, but maintains its family-friendly atmosphere with organized activities during peak season.
What to do
Lake activities: Visitors to Buck Creek State Park Campground can enjoy water recreation at the reservoir. "There are two swimming beaches, the public one and one in the campground. The campground one is smaller a short hike to get to it," explains Leon H., who recommends bringing kayaks to launch from the campsite area.
Mountain biking trails: Hueston Woods State Park Campground offers numerous marked trails for cycling enthusiasts. One camper noted, "This park is amazing for mountain biking trail to go with water sport at lake," while others mentioned speaking with mountain bikers who "spoke favorably" about the trail system.
River paddling excursions: At Morgan's Canoe and Outdoor Adventure, campers can take canoe, kayak, or raft trips down the Little Miami River. "They provide canoeing, rafting, and kayaking at different trip lengths for a great price. There are plenty of spots along the beautiful Little Miami River Valley to pull your canoe off to the side and sit and hang out," says Carolyn M.
What campers like
Private bath facilities: Many glamping locations near Dayton feature modern bathroom amenities. At Winton Woods Campground, "The bathrooms are clean, with private combined shower/dressing stalls," according to Anne H., making it comfortable for families and those who prefer privacy while camping.
Level sites with utilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained grounds. "Our site was level and the roads were easy to navigate in our motorhome," reports Nancy W. about Winton Woods, while another camper noted the convenience of the "50-amp full hook-up site" availability.
Natural swimming areas: Visitors enjoy alternatives to traditional swimming pools. At Natural Springs Resort, "This camp ground has a beautiful spring fed quarry with clean and clear water," according to Daniele M., offering a refreshing swim experience different from chlorinated pools.
What you should know
Limited privacy at some sites: Some campgrounds have closely spaced sites. "It has lake activities, hiking, biking, fishing... Camping can be in tents or various cabins or even in the lodge," mentions Megan D. about Hueston Woods, but other reviewers note that sites can feel exposed with "no barriers or buffer between neighbors."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate with limited schedules. Stonelick State Park Campground runs from April 1 to October 31, with peak season during summer months. As Lisa S. mentions, there are "several water spickets throughout the park if you needed to access them," but services may be reduced in shoulder seasons.
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential at popular sites. "Must reserve online as they are still doing everything virtual," notes Mike & Deb L. about Buck Creek State Park, indicating a shift away from walk-up availability at many parks.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled events for children. At Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA, Halloween weekends are especially popular. According to Sallie M., "Third year attending this weekend for Halloween. I never decorate for Halloween but with everything going on in 2020 I said what the heck."
Check playground locations: Proximity to play areas can be convenient. Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers "a playground in walking distance" according to reviewers, while Melissa M. at Buck Creek mentions "a path to the playground which the occasional kid will run down."
Consider tent-only sections: For a quieter family experience, seek out specialized camping areas. "Over a late-August weekend, we found the non-electric loop to be pretty quiet and uncrowded," shares Amanda P. about Buck Creek's tent section, which provides a more peaceful setting for families seeking less noise.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Site sizes vary significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are VERY close together, with most of the campground completely exposed with no shade. It was like trying to relax on a huge parking lot jammed with RVs and people," warns Megan M. about one location, highlighting the importance of researching site specifications.
Watch for utility placement: Hookup locations can affect parking position. At Natural Springs Resort, Daniel G. advises: "The only odd feature was the placement of the sewage. If you're not careful you can easily park your RV on top of the drain, so keep an eye out for it." This practical tip can save significant frustration during setup.
Consider seasonal sites: For frequent visitors, longer-term options exist. At Frontier Campground, Melani J. shares: "Because they only allow monthly reservations, it keeps the traffic to a minimum and creates more of a community atmosphere," making it ideal for RVers seeking a more stable glamping experience near Dayton.
