Camping near Hilliard, Ohio offers diverse experiences in the central Ohio region where elevations rarely exceed 1,000 feet, creating accessible camping terrain for all skill levels. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching into the 80s and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Year-round camping options exist with specific accommodations available during winter months when many facilities reduce services.
What to Do
Hiking on marked trails: At Delaware State Park Campground, numerous trails connect throughout the park for customizable hikes. "This summer my family has went to many campgrounds and by far Delaware has been our favorite. The site we were on was set back in the woods. My daughter had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site," shares Ashley R.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer stocked fishing ponds with catch-and-release policies. "The Cardinal Camping Center has a stocked fishing lake (catch and release)," notes George J. from his experience at Cardinal Center Campground.
Swimming options: Most parks maintain designated swimming areas during summer months. "We did not swim due to it being in the 60s and rainy during most of our stay but we did go look at the beach it was very clean and appears well cared for," mentions Ashley R. about Delaware State Park.
Target shooting: Some campgrounds offer unique recreational activities beyond standard camping. "The camp also has some very nice cabins, no restrooms in the cabin but they are very close to the public restrooms and shower house. We then went over to the shooting center and tried our luck with some silliolet and metal targets on the pistol range," explains George J.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the separation between camping spots. "Space and Privacy...the two things that bring me back to this campground year after year. We have never had a 'bad' campsite at the Alum Creek State Park Campground. Each camping space is separated by trees and brush," notes Sandy O.
Clean shower facilities: Well-maintained bathroom facilities consistently receive positive mentions. "Showers were very nice and clean. Several water spickets throughout the park if you needed to access them," reports Lisa M. about her stay at Buck Creek State Park Campground.
Variety of glamping accommodations: Luxury camping near Hilliard includes various options beyond traditional tents. "We love that electric is included and was helpful for plugging in fans during the hot night," mentions a visitor to Alum Creek, highlighting comfort features in electrified sites.
Level campsites: Finding flat terrain for tents ranks high in importance. "Our site was nice and level. Nice hiking trails in the area," shares Lisa M., pointing out the practical benefits of Buck Creek's campsite design.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most parks require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Must reserve online as they are still doing everything virtual. Camp spots were decently sized but no cover between camp spots and little shade," advises Mike & Deb L. about their experience at Buck Creek.
Limited cell service: Several parks have spotty or nonexistent connectivity. "There is no cell service. Be sure to give anyone who may need to contact you a heads up," warns Sydney about Tar Hollow State Park Campground.
Weather considerations: Ohio's variable climate affects camping conditions. "Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," cautions Katelyn P. about waterfront sites.
Variable bathroom quality: Facilities range widely in cleanliness and function. "The bathrooms were the most disgusting thing ever!! Their was actually a sign that said ecoli was found in one of the bathrooms," reports K Whipple W. about their experience at Jackson Lake Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Entertainment options: Many campgrounds offer activities beyond natural attractions. "Tons of stuff for kids, they had a blast! Great atmosphere, friendly staff! Will deliver wood to site & had lots of amenities," shares Bob H. about his stay at Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA.
Off-peak benefits: Weekday camping often provides quieter experiences. "We stayed here for two nights while visiting friends in the area but wished we would have stayed to enjoy all that the park had to offer. The campground was really nice and quiet when we stayed there which was during the week and in the spring and not very crowded," advises Nancy W.
Animal encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region. "My sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes," mentions Buck B. about Buck Creek State Park, highlighting space for family activities.
Cabin options for easier family glamping: For those seeking comfort while luxury camping near Hilliard, cabins provide convenient alternatives. "The KOA was what one expects of the KOA lots of features and not very secluded. The Kabins were lovely. The design is nice as the bunk beds are in their own separate room. This means the back room will sleep four individuals," explains Kenpocentaur K.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Electric and water connections vary by site. "Our site had full hook-ups 50 amp service with sewer and water picnic table and fire ring for $44 a night," reports George J. about Cardinal Center Campground.
Site preferences: Location within campgrounds affects experience quality. "I recommend taking one on the outside of the loop - near the trees," advises Jason M. about Buck Creek camping.
Space considerations: RV site dimensions vary significantly between parks. "The sites are roomy and we like the wooded feel," notes Marshall P. about Delaware State Park's accommodations for larger vehicles.
Water fill logistics: Access to fresh water requires planning at some locations. "The only negative was the lack of a central fresh water fill station. Spigots are dispersed throughout the camp, which means sitting in the road for as long as it takes to fill your tank," reports Kim H. from Deer Creek Camping Resort.
