Best Campgrounds near Lancaster, OH

Lancaster, Ohio and surrounding Hocking Hills region support multiple camping options, from established campgrounds to more remote experiences. Hocking Hills State Park Campground offers tent, RV, and cabin sites within proximity to scenic hiking areas, while A.W. Marion State Park provides a smaller, more intimate camping setting with both electric and non-electric sites. Campbell Cove Camping and Hocking River RV Park serve as privately operated alternatives with full hookup options for recreational vehicles. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations, typically closing from late October through early April.

Weather conditions significantly affect camping experiences in the region, with hot, humid summers and occasionally cold, wet springs. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays at popular locations like Hocking Hills State Park, where sites fill quickly during peak season. Most campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites with pit latrines to full-service RV hookups with shower facilities. Cell service remains spotty throughout much of the region, especially in more remote camping areas. As one camper noted, "Lake Hope State Park is the unsung hero of Logan county, Ohio. Hocking Hills State Park gets the crowds because of its amenities and closer proximity to Old Man's Cave."

Campground selection near Lancaster varies based on desired privacy levels and amenities. Sites at Hocking Hills State Park provide access to numerous hiking trails leading to scenic rock formations, caves, and waterfalls, making it a popular base camp for outdoor enthusiasts. Tent-only areas like Tar Hollow State Park North Ridge campground offer more primitive experiences but require campers to carry equipment from parking areas to campsites. Visitors frequently mention proximity to natural attractions as a primary consideration when selecting camping locations. Private campgrounds like Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA and Jackson Lake Park provide more amenities such as swimming areas, playgrounds, and camp stores. Several reviewers commented on the crowds at better-known locations, with one noting, "Many of the campsites are situated on pretty intense slopes" at Tar Hollow, highlighting the importance of researching specific site conditions before booking.

Best Camping Sites Near Lancaster, Ohio (112)

    1. Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    109 Reviews
    South Bloomingville, OH
    20 miles
    Website

    $29 - $46 / night

    "There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."

    "If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."

    2. A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Circleville, OH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 869-3124

    $21 - $25 / night

    "They had a scavenger hunt which made us really experience the nature around us, going through the woods off trail, going to the lakeside, walking around looking for different things on a list."

    "Marion State Park on this particular weekend because it's relatively close to home (Columbus area)."

    3. Campbell Cove Camping

    17 Reviews
    Logan, OH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 385-2994

    "This is a very nice campground near all of the attractions of Hocking Hills, Ohio. We had full hookups that were excellent, but if we didn't there were several new restrooms throughout the grounds."

    "Our site was waterfront and also set away from other sites."

    4. Hocking Hills Camping & Canoe

    8 Reviews
    Rockbridge, OH
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 385-9764

    "River right next to us and port a potty near. Allows dogs. Showers are at the check in but they are nice."

    "Walked 8 miles with our dog and still have so much left to see. Will definitely be going back! Very quiet and clean campgrounds."

    5. Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA

    12 Reviews
    Heath, OH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 928-0706

    "Then outside is the picnic table.  Due to health code rules you have to cook and do food outside of the cabin.  "

    "Not as close to the lake as we first thought but close enough. Will probably be back."

    6. Big Sycamore Family Campground

    8 Reviews
    Rockbridge, OH
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 385-7120

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Located within a short drive (about 10 miles/15 minutes) from everything Hocking Hills has to offer. There is even a restaurant close by that will deliver to your campsite."

    "Nice little campground right down the road from Lake Logan. Convenient to shopping nearby(Walmart and Kroger) About 10 miles from the caves and trails. Right off the highway. Good cheap firewood."

    7. Jackson Lake Park

    7 Reviews
    Lithopolis, OH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (614) 837-2656

    $40 - $139 / night

    "As a moto camper, we really lucked out with a flat plot and didn’t have anyone in the spots next to us. My #1 complaint was the bathroom situation."

    "Easy access to sites. Staff could take a lesson in hospitality and giving directions on park."

    8. Geneva Hills - Camp and Event Center

    2 Reviews
    Rockbridge, OH
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 746-8439

    $35 - $600 / night

    "It was a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp."

    9. Hocking River RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Logan, OH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 331-4840

    $15 - $40 / night

    "There was some mud where camper wheels were situated in the spot (needs material). Fire rings are not near RV but behind across the road on the river. Bath house is just ok - not great, not gross."

    "The river is small and is perfect to have a fire right next to. We also just went up the highway a little to a rafting rental place called murrys landing to raft down the river."

    10. Lakeview RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Rockbridge, OH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 653-4519

    "Small swimming lake!  Canoe rental and jet pack “skiing”"

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Recent Reviews near Lancaster, OH

746 Reviews of 112 Lancaster Campgrounds


  • Angie F.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground

    Picturesque Hocking HIlls retreat

    While we are not horsemen, my husband and I so enjoyed our stay at this remote and picturesque campground. The property reflects great pride and financial investment: nicely-appointed and immaculate bathroom facilities; well-spaced campsites; classy equine stalls; and accommodating service second to none. Highly recommended!

  • Evan H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

    Great area away from the busy park campsites

    G&P is exceptionally well maintained with 31 sites of varying sizes. Owner is extremely welcoming and prices are good. Front and rear Porto bathrooms for use.

  • D
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Hook Lake (Campground A) — Jesse Owens State Park

    Can’t wait to come back!!!

    Beautiful campground with fire pit and table. Our site was big enough for 3 6 person tents but most sites are smaller and fit 1-2 4 person tents.

    Good trails to hike and wonderful scenery. No cell reception unless you have satellite.

    The raccoons were a little to close for comfort in the evening make sure you lock your food and trash in your car at night.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Alum Creek State Park Campground

    Nice park but some traffic noise

    Spent three nights here while we were visiting friends in Lewis Center. We stayed in F09 and it was a great spot. Lots of protection on both sides so it was very secluded. And close to the shower house. Only reason I didn’t give this five stars was there was still quite a bit of traffic noise around the park that you could hear. Some nice hiking trails as well. Campsite was nice and level. Showers were super clean and awesome water pressure.

  • Alex A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Baileys Trail Tent Camping

    Peaceful Stay

    Wonderful little location. We drove for about 3 hours to get from where we are. Nice wide open space surrounded by woods. There were other campers but very friendly and had plenty of space to ourselves. Very nice bathroom/shower compared to what we expected. Will visit again.

  • Joe B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Campbell Cove Camping

    Nice campground

    We stayed at site 63 , on the water. Big site, water view and plenty of space. The road across the lake has an uphill section and people like to race up it. Trucks, motorcycles and cars. Really loud. I know the campground doesn’t control the road, so it’s just a note about the noise. The site is amazing, and I would come back.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Cross Creek Camping Resort

    A Very Pleasant and Quiet Campground

    This campground is clean and we'll maintained. They have a pool, and activities on the weekends. Must sure have a tree and grass with fire pits and a table.

  • Reb S.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    Horrible

    Really disgusted with out last stay here. We ended up next to some tent campers who were homeless which isn't the issue because things in life happen it was the way they acted that just grossed me out. I spent the first few days listening to them arguing and fighting amongst each other about their welfare checks being spent on their cigarettes beer and weed. They had 2 kids one that was autistic that they called a retard the other one they called stupid and it was just heartbreaking. I ended up having to go inside my camper and turning my ac on to escape their screaming and yelling and fighting that went into the midnight hour. My dog has a heart murmur and it made him anxious. I felt like I was camping in the bottoms of Columbus Ohio. The camp host said they are there all the time which is disturbing that they condone this behavior and makes me question the integrity of this location. Luckily after contacting ODNR we were able to move to a location far from them and given a gift card for our troubles. This was after they moved their camp stuff practically across the front bumper of my 100,000 RV. My husband and I pay way to much for our RV and for our stays to put up with this trash. We'd be hard pressed to come back here and be exposed to this kind of drama again.


Guide to Lancaster

Primitive camping sites near Lancaster, Ohio range from established campgrounds with basic amenities to more secluded locations along waterways. The region sits within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevation changes creating varied terrain for camping experiences. Overnight temperatures can drop significantly even in summer months, especially in lower elevation areas near water.

What to do

Fishing access: A.W. Marion State Park Campground offers shoreline fishing with multiple access points along its 5-mile lake loop trail. "A.W. Marion is near 23 and easy access to the highway to get to Columbus... Walked around near camp and checked out group camping sites that had plenty of space and trees for hammocking and tent set up," notes Karen K.

Swimming opportunities: Jackson Lake Park features both a swimming pool and a lake with inflatables during summer months. One visitor explained: "If you have kids, the pool and the lake activities will keep them busy all day and give them a great opportunity wear themselves out for a good night sleep."

Water recreation: Campbell Cove Camping provides direct kayak access to Lake Logan. As reviewer Ann H. states: "Kayaking on the lake is amazing and hiking is abundant. Beautiful sunset view." Rentals are available onsite for those without personal watercraft.

Disc golf: Multiple campgrounds provide access to nearby disc golf courses, with Jackson Lake Park offering an on-property course. The area has several established courses within 20-minute drives of most campgrounds.

What campers like

River proximity: Hocking River RV Park offers sites directly along the Hocking River. According to Shianne G., it's "Beautiful, and peaceful! Perfect right on the river... decent shower houses... peaceful little campground." Many sites provide views of passing canoes and kayaks.

Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom quality at area campgrounds. At Big Sycamore Family Campground, "The shower house and bathrooms were clean and adequate. There is a small playground for kids. It is pet friendly."

Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer large, private sites away from crowds. At A.W. Marion State Park Campground, one camper noted: "This site is probably the biggest in the primitive section. It is right next to the entrance road (and dumping station), which is a bummer, but the size of the site made it totally worth it."

Quiet atmosphere: Geneva Hills Camp and Event Center receives praise for its peaceful environment. One camper mentioned: "Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren't any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp."

What you should know

Walk-in sites reality: Some Hocking Hills State Park Campground sites marked as "walk-in" require significant hiking with gear. As Amanda P. explains: "Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! All in all we had a blast and a good laugh about our trek with all our stuff!!"

Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with limited winter access. A.W. Marion State Park transitions to electric-only sites with vault toilets during winter months.

Site conditions: Campsite quality varies widely at the same campground. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, one camper reported: "Ironically, we stayed at the worst campsite there, it was downslope, and they had recently cut down many trees and the site was a muddy mess. Every single other campsite they were perfect."

Highway proximity: Several campgrounds sit near highways with noticeable traffic noise. Hocking River RV Park has sites directly alongside State Route 33, with additional noise from a nearby train track approximately 200 yards away.

Tips for camping with families

Bathroom access: When camping with children, consider campsite proximity to restrooms. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, one camper warned: "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike. Not good with kids."

Kid-friendly activities: Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA offers numerous organized activities for children. "Tons of stuff for kids, they had a blast! Great atmosphere, friendly staff! Will deliver wood to site & had lots of amenities," reports Bob H.

Cabin options: For families new to camping, several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations. Campbell Cove Camping receives positive reviews for their family cabins: "We loved the location of Campbell Coves to Old Man's Cave and hiking trails. We do a family trip to the area every fall and this will be our go-to location."

Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment. Big Sycamore Family Campground maintains a small playground central to the camping area, allowing parents to monitor children from nearby sites.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites requiring significant leveling. At A.W. Marion State Park, one RVer mentioned: "We chose site #56 which had electric. It's one of the best sites we found there for it's size, shade and privacy."

Dump station locations: Most campgrounds offer dump stations rather than full sewer hookups. Lakeview RV Park is one exception, featuring full hookups at most sites. "Staff is very friendly and we got a nice pull through site for a quick stop over my way to upper Michigan," notes one reviewer.

Water access challenges: Several campgrounds have unusual water connection configurations. One camper at Jackson Lake Park observed: "We had to 'fish' down to connect our hose" through an underground pipe access point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lancaster, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lancaster, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 112 campgrounds and RV parks near Lancaster, OH and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lancaster, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lancaster, OH is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 109 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lancaster, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Lancaster, OH.

What parks are near Lancaster, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 parks near Lancaster, OH that allow camping, notably Deer Creek Lake and Dillon Lake.