Franklin, Ohio offers several camping options within a 30-mile radius, with most sites positioned along major highways for convenient access. The region experiences moderate temperatures from April to October, with summer highs typically ranging from 78-85°F. Campsites in this area tend to be set on mostly level terrain, with a mix of wooded and open sites available.
What to do
Water activities at Caesar Creek: Thousand Trails Wilmington provides convenient access to Caesar Creek State Park for outdoor recreation. "We like the location to the State park nearby for hiking trails and mountain biking trails (Ceasar Creek)," notes a camper from Wilmington RV Resort.
River watching along Ohio River: Tucker's Landing offers waterfront views with barges and river traffic. "Site 22 had a beautiful view of the ohio river. The kids enjoyed seeing the barges going up and down the river," shares one camper at Tucker's Landing.
Disc golf and yard games: Smaller campgrounds sometimes offer unique recreational opportunities. At Shredville Lodge, a camper reports, "My wife and I actually tried out his disc golf and found out we are better at just tossing frisbee in his spacious backyard."
What campers like
Well-maintained pools: Many rv parks near Franklin offer swimming facilities during warmer months. At Dayton KOA, reviewers appreciate "a large pool and a kids pool and hot tub" while one camper at Thousand Trails Wilmington mentioned "the staff were friendly and the pool is heated!"
Urban proximity with natural surroundings: The campgrounds balance city access with quieter settings. A reviewer at Shredville Lodge appreciated that it's "a great place to stay if you want to be close to Cincinati without having to stay in the city and pay those crazy hotel prices or the overpriced campgrounds."
Convenient amusement park access: Camp Cedar provides direct access to Kings Island. "Great location across from Kings Island. Many activities within this campus," notes a camper about the park's convenience for theme park visitors.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the Franklin area operate on limited schedules. According to reviews, Thousand Trails Wilmington is open from April to October, with one camper noting, "We have been camping here for over 4 years."
Variable cell coverage: Mobile connectivity can differ significantly between campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Wilmington, a camper shared practical information: "I use Starlink and T-mobile 5G. The T-Mobile seems to be working best here. The cell booster I have made it go from 'good' to 'excellent'."
Permanent resident ratios: Several campgrounds have a mix of transient and permanent sites. A visitor to Tucker's Landing observed, "This camp ground was clean, new and level. Great river views. Sites close together with lots of permanents."
Tips for camping with families
Riverside activities for children: Sites along waterways offer natural entertainment. A camper at Tucker's Landing found that "the kids enjoyed seeing the barges going up and down the river," providing natural entertainment.
Stream access at select campgrounds: Some sites offer water features specifically appealing to children. A visitor to Poor Farmer's Campground mentioned, "A stream that runs through the campground is nice for the kids to play in when it's too hot for them on the play ground."
Recreation facilities vary widely: Playground and activity options differ between parks. At Tomorrow's Stars RV Resort, a reviewer noted it's a "perfect for a family, has swimming pool, putt putt, and other child friendly activities."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RVers should prepare for varied site conditions. At Dayton KOA Holiday, a camper mentioned, "The campsites are shaded and pretty level. I am using a pull through and it is long enough for my RV and 24' trailer."
Urban RV park advantages: Winton Woods Campground offers urban camping with privacy options. One camper shared, "I stayed at an electric only spot nestled in the trees by the lake. I was the only RV in this section all week and it was so peaceful and private."
Hookup considerations for seasonal stays: Electrical options vary between campgrounds and loops. At Tomorrow's Stars RV Resort, a visitor appreciated "the cost was EXCELLENT for a pull through, full hookups, and 50 amp service" while noting site maintenance differences between areas.
