Campgrounds near Lima, Ohio spread across relatively flat terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 900 feet above sea level. The area features a mix of woodlands and farmland with several interconnected water features including the Ottawa and Auglaize Rivers. Weather varies dramatically with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-90°F and winters dropping below freezing, affecting camping accessibility from October through April.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ottawa Metro Park Campground offers easy access to stocked ponds where campers can catch various fish species. As one visitor noted, "It is such a nice peaceful campground! The sites were nicely spaced along with a wonderful bathroom. Its definitely one of the nicest campgrounds I have ever been to!" (Ottawa Metro Park)
Swimming options: While some lakes in the area have water quality concerns, Indian Lake State Park Campground maintains a clean swimming area and recently added a new inground pool. According to a camper, "There is a camper beach area, swimming pool and boat launch within the campground. The camp store is nice except the firewood was terrible." (Indian Lake State Park)
Biking trails: The 13-mile Greenway system near Ottawa Metro Park provides paved paths ideal for family cycling. A recent visitor mentioned, "Very clean and pleasant campground, not far off the interstate. A 13-mile Greenway passes by there. Very nice bath and shower house."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Grand Lake St. Marys State Park offers large, level camping spaces with cement pads that provide ample room for equipment. One camper shared, "Large spacious sites with cement or paved spots. Can be muddy after rain. Has a pool, playground, putt putt golf, boat docks, hiking trails, and some other great amenities." (Grand Lake St. Marys State Park)
Clean facilities: The well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at Wapakoneta KOA consistently receive positive comments. A reviewer noted, "Super clean KOA with level gravel sites (no weeds popping up through gravel!) 2 Fenced dog areas, nice playground, game room, giant chess set outside, clean pool.. you name it, this KOA has it!" (Wapakoneta KOA)
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to highways, several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. One camper at Twin Lakes Park mentioned, "Campground was really nice. Small and quiet but fun! Staff and seasonal campers were super friendly and helpful! Playground is great, lots to do, and the fishing and swimming lakes are nice."
What you should know
Lake water quality: Grand Lake St. Marys has experienced algae and bacteria issues. A recent visitor warned, "The entire lake stinks of pig poop. All the air smells like poo. You feel like you are breathing feces when you approach the water. We were right on the water so we couldn't escape the smell."
Accessibility features: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Lima offer accessible facilities. At Ottawa Metro Park, "Everything in the bathrooms was intentionally designed for accessibility, not a thoughtless retrofit. The accessible shower is amazing."
Reservation systems: While some campgrounds require advance booking, Ottawa Metro Park operates first-come, first-served. A camper explained, "The campground is first-come first serve, but don't worry about getting a site. There are plenty. Pick up a registration envelope from the mailbox at the entrance sign, complete the triplicate form and follow the instructions."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: River Trail Campground provides multiple recreation options for children. A visitor shared, "Nice swimming pool and clean pond for swimming and fishing. Catch and release fishing allowed. Bingo on Saturday evening! We all enjoyed our stay." (River Trail Campground)
Playground access: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Lima feature modern play equipment. At Twin Lakes Park, "Playground is great, lots to do, and the fishing and swimming lakes are nice. Caught some decent bass and kids enjoyed all the bluegill fishing."
Weekend programming: Indian Lake State Park offers organized activities for children, especially during summer months. One camper mentioned, "This is definitely a campground for families and for those who want lots of company in there experience. Some shaded areas but mostly open land. Lots of activities for kids and families and even movies and music on the weekend."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check site descriptions carefully as some campgrounds have uneven terrain. A visitor to Indian Lake State Park noted, "Our pad was not level front to back so we had to adjust a little bit. The fire ring was nice but our picnic table was beat up. I went to move it and the seat pulled right off." (Twin Lakes Park)
Hookup options: Dog-friendly RV campgrounds near Lima offer various electricity options. A Wapakoneta KOA visitor explained, "Great service and help getting the trailer positioned correctly. A few food options on site are nice. The actual sites are very small. Not much room to fit the trailer and vehicle."
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide sanitary dump stations, but locations vary. At Ottawa Metro Park, "There is a dumpster and water available between sites. Each site comes with a picnic table. And the fields around the park are filled with bunnies!"
