Glamping options near Latham, Ohio range from basic to full-service accommodations across several state parks within a 45-minute drive. The region sits within the Appalachian foothills with elevation changes that create diverse camping environments and small lakes formed by damming creeks. Most campgrounds remain open April through October, though some offer year-round facilities with winter access dependent on weather conditions.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on small lakes: Rocky Fork State Park Campground offers boating options on its lake. "This is a very nice campground. Nice lake, boating, playgrounds, bath houses, some full hook up sites," notes Jarrod M.
Fishing for specific species: Bass and crappie fishing opportunities abound in the region's waters. "Great campground... excellent fishing," mentions Jeff P. about Rocky Fork State Park, while Cowan Lake State Park Campground provides another popular fishing destination.
Limited but rewarding hiking: Trail options vary across parks, with some better maintained than others. At Tar Hollow State Park Campground, one visitor cautions, "The hiking paths are not clearly marked and I am embarrassed to admit I did get lost in the woods. This could be solved by taking a picture of the colorful map right by the fire tower."
Winter camping experiences: While most glamping sites close seasonally, some parks remain accessible year-round. "We broke our own cardinal rule, don't travel unfamiliar roads at night," shares Bill L. about his off-season visit to Rocky Fork. "We were blessed as the journey to the park was uneventful, but we missed some wonderful countryside."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Shawnee State Park Campground offers unique tent camping spots. "Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites. Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path," explains Jay T., who stayed in site 12.
Clean shower facilities: Hygiene amenities receive consistent positive reviews across most parks. "The bathrooms were average, not great but not gross," notes Megan M. about Shawnee State Park. "The shower houses were clean," adds Kim H. about her stay at Cowan Lake State Park.
Spacious sites for group gathering: Several campgrounds offer larger sites ideal for family reunions. "The lot was VERY large and well maintained. The asphalt pad was decently level; a picnic table and fire ring were included," reports Kim H. about Cowan Lake State Park's site 78.
Technology connectivity balance: Cell service varies widely. At Long's Retreat, one camper actually appreciates the isolation: "Love no cell reception! Quiet clean and staff (owner) is always pleasant and helpful!" writes Robin R.
What you should know
Limited tent-only areas: Parks offering dedicated tent camping are becoming harder to find. At Tar Hollow, Sydney notes, "You cannot park your car directly at your campsite. There is a parking lot at the bottom of the campground hill. You have to carry your items to your campsite. Depending on what site you reserved you could have to walk uphill for about 100-150 yards."
Site-specific characteristics: Not all sites within a single park offer the same experience. "Our campsite was close to two different bathroom structures. One right behind our site was toilets only. This did mean that sometimes folks would walk on the edge or through the camp site at times," explains Kenpocentaur K. about Stonelick State Park Campground.
Seasonal water issues: Water quality can vary throughout the season. At Tar Hollow, one reviewer cautioned about water spigots: "You better let it run for a long bit! I've never seen such brown water at camp."
Maintenance considerations: The condition of glamping facilities varies based on usage and upkeep. "The camp sites are very close together and feels like I'm in someone's backyard that is having trouble growing grass," observes Shelby I. about Rocky Fork State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Mini golf and recreation options: Several parks offer additional family activities. At Top O' The Caves Campground, "Everything is quite outdated especially the park and mini golf. With that said it was a great time. It has mini golf, a pool, park and small game room which is awesome for camping with kids," shares Kelli W.
Bike-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate cycling for children. At Rocky Fork State Park, a visitor noted, "Very nice grounds, lots of paved pathways for bike riding, skateboarding, etc. Air conditioned shower houses."
Educational nature programs: Check for scheduled ranger activities. Tar Hollow has "a nature room, and there is a naturalist who conducts several activities. In past years we've been able to spend an hour or so at the nature rooms, and then let the kids go off with the naturalist on an hour+ guided hike down the creek to explore for wildlife and plants," explains Jonathan W.
Limited connectivity benefits: Many parents appreciate the tech-free environment. "The best part is there is no phone service...everyone has to actually spend time together and it's a great reset!" writes Kristi J. about their family experience at Long's Retreat.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness challenges: The region's hilly terrain means some sites require extensive leveling. "Our site 35 was very slopey, our levelers only helped a little," reports Kara S. about Stonelick State Park.
Water and electrical hookups: Electrical availability varies. "The RV site was rather small without much personal space. But it worked for what they needed," notes Fred J. about Logan Ohio KOA, which offers sites with water/sewer/electric/cable hookups.
Access road conditions: Some parks have challenging approach roads. The KOA near Logan has a difficult access point: "The little road going up to the campground is VERY bumpy. It's not the campground road, it belongs to the Township, so its completely out of their ability to make improvements," explains Vicki H.
Winter RV considerations: "State Park that offers a beach, canoes, fishing, and camping. Sites are drive-up with plenty of room for a tent or two and fire-rings. Some sites may have trees for hammocks. Can get loud with lots of RVs in spots nearby," reports Clay A. about Stonelick State Park.
