Seasonal campgrounds near Gambier, Ohio typically operate from April through October, with only a few locations offering year-round access. Most parks sit at elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet in the rolling hills of Knox County. Winter camping options remain limited with only Evergreen Park RV Resort maintaining full hookup capability during colder months.
What to do
Fishing access: Kokosing River Campground provides shoreline fishing on their lake with abundant waterfowl. "Nice, small, shaded, well maintained campground... Beautiful lake, nice a quiet. Lots of waterfowl," reports camper Shelly S.
Water recreation: Wally World offers river access with canoe and kayak opportunities. "This campground is a great location for families looking to stay on the Mohican River and to have activities for kids at the same time," notes Lou J., who adds that the campground "has newer shower houses and a large game/community room."
Amish country exploration: Multiple campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring local Amish communities and shops. "Close to everything Amish in Berlin. Asked for a shaded area...got a perfect one that had shade all day," writes Noel L. about Scenic Hills RV Park, which also offers "Free firewood" according to the same reviewer.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most rv campgrounds near Gambier, Ohio maintain above-average bathroom and shower facilities. At Berlin RV Park, campers specifically praise the "SPOTLESS bathrooms and I mean SPOTLESS" along with family recreation areas including "Sand Volleyball, basketball court, tetherball, corn hole area and playground."
Riverfront options: River Trail Crossing receives positive reviews for its waterfront sites. "We had a riverfront spot for 4 nights, enjoyed our stay. 30amp, but the AC was still effective on a couple hot days. Bike trail access right from the campground," writes Bob M., who appreciates both the setting and nearby activities.
Recreation amenities: Campgrounds in the area commonly offer swimming pools, playgrounds and game areas. At Whispering Hills Jellystone RV Park, camper Kayla S. notes "Great activities including mini golf, pool, jumping pad and frisbee golf. Cabins and RV spots available and the staff is friendly, grounds are clean and nicely kept."
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Campground density can impact your experience at some locations. One camper noted about Evergreen Park RV Resort: "Very clean and nice campground. I only negative for me was the campsites are very close to each other."
Seasonal operations: Most Gambier area RV parks close for winter. Sunset Springs RV Resort operates "May 1 to October 15" while Whispering Hills Jellystone runs "Apr 15 - Oct 31," and River Trail Crossing remains open "May 1 to October 16."
Navigation challenges: GPS directions can lead to problems for some campgrounds. At Wally World, camper Gregory L. warns: "Getting here proved to be tricky, as it seems all of the GPS apps and my Garmin routed us on a county road that is not fit for RVs of any type... If your GPS says to take ANY township roads, just don't. They are not paved, steep, and/or have sharp turns."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused parks: Mohican Adventures Campground offers extensive recreation options. "We fished and swam in the indoor pool which was not heated at the time. Across the street they have a Canoe livery, mini golf, go carts, ropes course and lots more. So much to do!!" reports Lo H.
Water play options: Several campgrounds feature ponds, lakes or river access for children. Mark B. at Kokosing River Campground notes: "Peaceful and great for kids. Kayaking on the lake is great. Camp staff very friendly and helpful."
Campground programs: Many parks schedule regular weekend activities. One Wally World visitor explains, "This is a great family campground with many well maintained amenities and activities," while another mentions "themed activities and chances to meet other campers" on weekends.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "Sites located on the river are water and electric. Sites off the river have 50 amp and 30 amp," explains Brian E. about River Trail Crossing's configuration.
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have more level sites than others. At Berlin RV Park, camper Craig T. reports: "We had difficulty leveling one night in lot 3 but traded to #4 the next night and did fine. The many pull thru lots looked like a good level base."
Utility locations: At some parks, hookup placement may require extra equipment. Earl B. at Scenic Hills RV Park notes: "The one and only issue is that water and electricity is located in the rear area of RV, while sewer connections are toward the front. I personally used 50' of water line and 30' of sewer line (which I carry with me anyways)."
