Camping options near Heath, Ohio include several state parks within 30-60 minutes of driving distance. The region features rolling hills and deciduous forests that change dramatically with the seasons, with campgrounds typically at elevations between 800-1,100 feet. Winter camping remains available at several locations, though water access may be limited during freezing months.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Dillon State Park Campground offers multiple water recreation options on Dillon Lake. "Dillon Lake State Park is located about 10 miles west of Zanesville, OH in a heavily forested area. There is no road noise from the local route 146 used to access the campground," notes Brian B. The park maintains boat launches and fishing areas throughout.
Mountain biking trails: Alum Creek State Park Campground features dedicated mountain biking trails alongside its camping areas. "There is a great mountain biking trail in the vicinity," explains Catherine. The trails are maintained year-round, though conditions vary seasonally with some sections becoming muddy after rainfall.
Horseback riding trails: The region offers several trail systems that permit horseback riding. While most campgrounds lack on-site equestrian facilities, Delaware State Park maintains over 15 miles of bridle trails that connect directly to the park. "Has wonderful hunting areas," comments Michael P., indicating the expansive natural areas surrounding the park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently praise the spacing between sites at Mohican State Park Campground. "Well maintained campground with roomy camp sites. Nice heated pool and many activities in the area. Hiking, canoeing, biking, etc.," writes Wesley S. The park's layout preserves natural barriers between camping areas.
Free primitive camping options: Mohican State Park offers no-cost backcountry camping alternatives for those seeking a more remote experience. "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites. There are 4 on the mountain bike trail and 6 on the horse trails, first come first serve, no reservations," shares John H.
Bathroom facilities: Hocking Hills State Park Campground recently upgraded its shower facilities. "Clean bathrooms and heated showers," notes Meghan H. The park also features "a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds in the region have poor connectivity. At Mohican Wilderness, "we didn't have any cell service but I was not expecting it. It was great to be screen free for a couple days," says Heidi L. Reception varies by provider, with Verizon typically offering better coverage than other carriers.
Seasonal closures: Water access and some facilities close during winter months. At Delaware State Park Campground, year-round camping is available, but as one visitor notes, "the water at the full hook up sites are turned off" during off-season periods.
Site levelness issues: Blue Rock State Park presents challenges for setting up camp on uneven terrain. "We switched sites the next morning only to find that every other site that had a smidge of privacy was on such an incline it literally made us dizzy to hang out there for very long," reports Nicole F.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Lake Hope State Park Campground provides family-friendly water recreation. "My family and I even spent some time at the lake and rented a paddle board and a water bike which was so much fun! We also did some kayaking," shares Anne P. The park maintains a swimming beach with rental equipment available during summer months.
Playground accessibility: Many campgrounds feature multiple playground areas distributed throughout camping sections. At Delaware State Park, "there is a playground in each of the 4 sections for kids to play with a remodel shower house at each one," notes Joe I.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe diverse wildlife at many campgrounds. At Dillon State Park, "the deer are plentiful and beautiful," according to Andrea H. Morning and evening hours offer the best viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for levelness: RVers recommend carefully reviewing site maps before booking. At Blue Rock State Park, campers note significant variations in site quality. "The pictures of the set-up of sites online do not match at all the set-up in real life," cautions Nicole F.
Full hookup availability: Complete utility connections vary significantly between parks. Burr Oak State Park Campground offers full hookups at select sites, with electric-only options being more common. "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave," mentions Elana C.
Dump station access: For campgrounds without sewer hookups, dump stations are typically located near entrance areas. At Mohican State Park, "potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open" year-round, according to Andrea F., making it suitable for extended stays.
