RV campgrounds in the Laurelville, Ohio area offer diverse camping options within the scenic Hocking Hills region at elevations ranging from 850 to 1,100 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and spring/fall ranging from 50-70°F. Most RV parks in the region require reservations during peak seasons, with many sites offering electric hookups and varying levels of seclusion.
What to do
Kayaking on the Hocking River: Campers at Hocking River RV Park enjoy direct river access. "This small and cost effective campground is so awesome! 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," shares Aysia C.
Explore hiking trails: The region offers numerous hiking paths for all skill levels. At Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground, visitors appreciate unique trail access. "The horseback riding is awesome, airplane rock has a view second to none. the box canyon with waterfall is gorgeous but seriously it was fantastic," notes Timothy M.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer water recreation beyond just hiking. At Jackson Lake Park, "The little lake was so much fun. My children were upset we had to leave early due to the storm coming in," reports Samantha H.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Campers consistently praise clean, private facilities. At Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds, "The bathroom/shower facility are private individual units and are the cleanest we have ever seen!" according to Tiffani C.
Family activities: Many campgrounds offer recreational options beyond hiking. "There is a nice sized sand ground play set with swings and 2 slides, an air pillow (blob) putt putt, a trail to the lake, a dog run, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room and very pleasant staff," Mitchell C. shares about Hilltop Resorts.
Peaceful settings: Walnut Creek Campground and Resort provides a tranquil atmosphere, with Mark B. noting it's a "Friendly family owned campground with nice quiet environment. Nice scenic drive to campground only 7 miles off of Hwy 35."
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies significantly: Some sites offer privacy while others are tightly packed. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, one camper notes, "The sites were quiet and clean! Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites!"
Bathhouse quality fluctuates: Facilities range from outdated to recently renovated. At Palmerosa Campground, "The new shower house at the office is great! You have your own shower, toilet and vanity in a locked room!" according to Chad B.
Water access can be challenging: Despite riverside locations, some spots have limited water entry points. At Hocking River RV Park, Joseph E. notes, "Fishing is ok but the banks of the river are high. Also the water is after you pull in so you have to pull in fill up and go back around to your spot."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-specific amenities: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's activities. "Super spacious sites and very peaceful. This is a top-notch camping resort," says Victor R. about Hilltop Resorts.
Consider proximity to bathrooms: When camping with children, bathroom location matters. Kate W. shares about Hocking Hills State Park: "Portable water is available at the parking lot only. The walk-in campground does NOT connect by trail to any other trails. A car is fairly necessary."
Check for swimming options: Jackson Lake Park offers water recreation that kids enjoy. "Has fishing, kayaking, golf cart trails, volleyball set up, basketball court, swimming pool and super nice cabins," reports Kelly W. about Walnut Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site angles and approach matters: Some campgrounds require careful maneuvering. When selecting an RV site, consider accessibility. Alton RV Park offers "small, maybe 35 sites, clean well maintained campground" with staff who "will guide you to your spot and likely oversee your parking," according to Sharon J.
Water filling logistics: Plan for water access points. At Jackson Lake Park, Chris C. notes "the water hook ups were accessible through a hole/pipe and we had to 'fish' down to connect our hose."
Seasonal considerations: Year-round availability varies, with most RV parks in the Laurelville region open from spring through fall. At Hocking River RV Park, Tamara W. advises that "pull through spots require a little bit of maneuvering with big rig" and that there "was some mud where camper wheels were situated in the spot (needs material)."
