115 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
State parks and recreational areas surrounding Lithopolis, Ohio provide a variety of camping experiences within a short drive of this small central Ohio town. Jackson Lake Park, located in nearby Canal Winchester, offers 199 sites with options for tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals, plus water recreation on its small lake. A.W. Marion State Park Campground in Circleville, about 20 miles south, features a more intimate camping experience with both electric and non-electric sites around Hargus Lake. For those seeking more extensive outdoor adventures, Hocking Hills State Park lies approximately 40 miles southeast, renowned for its dramatic rock formations, caves, and well-maintained trails alongside diverse camping accommodations.
Reservations are essential during peak season, particularly for weekend stays from May through October. As one camper noted, "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. It's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio!" Most state parks in the region operate seasonally, with limited or no services available during winter months. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with more remote locations like Tar Hollow State Park having spotty coverage. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer thunderstorms common and spring bringing occasional flooding to lower-lying campsites. Many campgrounds require advance booking through Ohio's reservation system, with popular sites filling months ahead during fall foliage season.
Campers consistently praise the water-based recreation opportunities throughout the region. Lakes and reservoirs near Lithopolis support fishing, kayaking, and swimming during summer months. According to visitor reviews, smaller parks like A.W. Marion offer "peaceful and quiet" experiences compared to larger, more crowded destinations. Fall camping receives particularly high ratings, with one visitor noting, "We were there as the leaves were changing and it was great!" Families appreciate the playgrounds and organized activities at several parks, while those seeking solitude might prefer weekday visits when campgrounds are less crowded. Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between locations, with some offering modern amenities while others maintain more rustic facilities with pit toilets only.
"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."
"October weekends in Ohio State Park campgrounds are super popular so we weren’t able to make a reservation here. "
from $25 - $40 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $20 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $40 - $139 / night
Check Availability"No driving your vehicle any further than the bottom of the hill. Great location, very beautiful. Spacious in between 5 campgrounds and right next to the Scioto River."
"Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn’t see a single person. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood."
"Happened to be next to the park host. No choice of where to locate my large tent. Showers/bathrooms were OK--older facilities. "
"First off we have to say that Ohio State Park campgrounds are some of the best we’ve ever stayed in."
from $23 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
"Some are smaller, close to neighbors while other have seclusion with trees. From past experience, if it rains, some of the sites do flood. We had great weather this weekend."
"My favorite state park in Ohio (so far). Very clean, lots of activities, nice size sites. Easy to get to from Columbus and lots of activities."
from $39 - $52 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $60 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $30 / night
Check Availability"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."
ScoutPastime Campground is a nice base to explore the Columbus area. The well kept campground is part of a city park that consists of a some nice walking trails, baseball fields, sand volleyball and a pool/splash park (for a small fee). The town offers restaurants and is within walking distance. Overall a good stay.
ScoutIf you ever find yourself in Ohio wanting to camp don’t chose Tomorrow Stars Resorts we pulled in on Thursday afternoon a little after 2 pm everything was fine. We got up (today) Friday and had a knock on our door the host said we needed to move our camper over because we’re not in the right spot and we’re on the other site. We said we couldn’t move it over due to the tree (as pictured) if we moved in “designated” spot our slide out would be completely in the tree he said I’ll cut the tree. Left never came back. My brother and grandmother came to visit wasn’t there for maybe 5 mins and the manager/ owner came knocking and said we need to move our vehicle because he can’t rent out the other site because he’s parked on it. Then he started complaining about us moving our camper over we said the host said he’d cut the tree and he never came back. He then decided to be a smart aleck and we gave it right back and he told us to leave so we said give us a refund to which he responded “I’ll think about it” so we said okay well get our lawyer. He drove away and we started packing up and he came back waited for Greg (my husband) to walk to the back of the camper and he said we’re taking pictures just so you know and I said good I’m glad and my brother yelled we already got ours then he said he was going to charge us for the other site that my brothers car was on I hollered at Greg to tell him and the guy took off. We started talking to the people who just pulled in behind us they agreed with us and the man said “I’m banned from here because I got into it with them so my wife had to book it we’re only staying bc there’s no other places available.” So there’s clarification it’s not just us. We packed up went to the office and Greg tried to ask if he was going to charge us for the other spot or refund us our money he told Greg he’s not going to talk to him to leave and that the sheriffs on the way and Greg said “good I’m glad he is” the guy then got in Greg’s face and started yelling at him so Greg walked out and we left.
ScoutCaves is great campground. However they do not honor dyrt reservations. Had to pay at the campground. Sent email to dyrt, no reply. They owe me 400 dollars, and I have not heard back. Dyrt, if you honor, I will update this review- until then, DO NOT USE!!!
ScoutThe cops pulled in and said we wasn't allowed to drink
ScoutEasy to make reservation, easy to check in and very friendly staff
TravelerMy favorite state park in Ohio (so far). Very clean, lots of activities, nice size sites. Easy to get to from Columbus and lots of activities.
ScoutJellystone Hocking Hills Ohio Don’t waste your money! I reserved a full hook up deluxe site with patio. Was supposed to be a level concrete slab. It was not! It was all gravel and dirt. No concrete whatsoever. This deluxe site sloped down so when you had a fire( weren’t allowed to move fire pit) your chairs went down hill and I fell almost every night. They brought in a crushed zone but it didn’t help the situation. Owner told us he would credit us some money back since the site wasn’t as promised, he did not. The playground was a mess. Old and nasty. The jump pad didn’t hold much air, so kids would jump on and sink right o the ground. The mining area was not locked so kids got into the pump and electrical areas which was dangerous for the little ones. YOGI BEAR MADE ONE 15 MINUTE APPEARANCE IN 5 DAYS. The schedule showed daily appearances at least daily if not more than once daily, which is how other Jellystones have been for us. MY GRANDSON was so sad. He had been looking forward to this trip for months, and recalled our prior JELLYSTONE stay at Watts Bar Lake in Tennessee, which was a totally different experience than this awful Hocking hills Jellystone. We repeatedly asked about Yogi appearances and were told“Yogi was busy and maybe he would come tomorrow“. The owner made so many excuses like,“my concrete guy didn’t show up last week” that’s why we didn’t have our concrete level patio site that we paid for. The playground didn’t have mulch cause his guy didn’t show up last week. The jump pad didn’t work right because his guy didn’t show up. The new pool wasn’t completed because his guy didn’t show up. Even the yogi bear statue they show in their picture wasn’t there. The pool they did have was in the owners backyard and you had to drive to it. It was slimed and disgusting. I have never been so disappointed. We drove 4.5 hours to get there specifically so my grandkids could camp at a Jellystone with Yogi Bear around. I don’t know how they are allowed to be a Jellystone, they are definitely not up to par. I’m sure we aren’t the only family to pay jellystones higher prices so the kids could see Yogi and friends daily. I could go on…there really were so many bad things about this place, but I see this review is very long. I will attach some photos
ScoutGreat location beautiful lake for. Camping fishing and boating
ScoutWe love this park. Nice camp sites. Lots of wooded areas. Very nice lake. Has lots to do, put put golf, shuffle board, disk golf. But our last camp there was disappointing. 3 of the campers in area D where we were did nothing all day and evening smoking Marijuana. We had to smell the skunk smell all day long from them as well as them letting there kids ride around on a golf cart all day and night with no head lites not even tagged for on road.I brought it to the camp stores attention and they said there's nothing they can do, we don't enforce the rules here . They said if I had a problem to call odnr. There was a camp host at the restroom area and watched a lady take her dog inside and said nothing to her.what are the parks rules for if the host won't even enforce them. Not one ranger through the park for 3 days..
Camping spots near Lithopolis, Ohio offer diverse terrain where the Appalachian foothills begin to rise from central Ohio flatlands. Most campgrounds in this area sit between 800-1,000 feet elevation, creating distinct microclimates that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than Columbus during summer months. The region's clay-heavy soil means campsites can remain muddy for days after rainfall, with drainage varying significantly between campgrounds.
Fishing at lakeside sites: A.W. Marion State Park Campground provides fishing opportunities on Hargus Lake where campers report good catches. "The campground is next to a lake which has a 5 mile loop for both hiking and mountain biking. The lake has a small beach area where you can take your dogs," notes Shannon G.
Trail exploration beyond popular paths: Scioto Grove Metro Park offers free backpacking sites for those wanting to test gear on shorter routes. "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit," says Zach.
Family recreation areas: Campbell Cove Camping provides structured activities for children within 45 minutes of Lithopolis. "There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole. The bathrooms are so clean. You can kayak on the lake and they do have rentals," shares Brianna L.
Off-season exploration: Winter camping options exist at select parks. "A cold but sunny weekend in February at site #32. No other campers there for the weekend, but a lot of foot traffic... Only electric and vault toilets are available in the winter," reports Shannon G. about A.W. Marion State Park.
Quiet weekday experiences: Midweek stays at Tar Hollow State Park Campground offer solitude rarely found on weekends. "I stayed in the non electric sites near the lake & had the place to myself on a sun & mon night," shares Anne.
Testing backpacking setups: Beginners appreciate dedicated areas for gear practice. "The backpacking site was a great site for new backpackers. It isn't too long but doing the full loop does let you know if your gear is working or going to be an issue," notes Kenpocentaur K. about Scioto Grove.
Lake activities beyond swimming: Multiple watercraft rental options exist within 30 minutes of Lithopolis. "Pine Lake is nice, but the beach is a bit small. Overall, this has been a lovely place to relax and decompress!" says Lisa S. about Tar Hollow State Park.
Proximity to Columbus: Alum Creek State Park Campground offers camping within 30 minutes of city amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "This is the proper listing for the campground. The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush. Beautiful walking trails," explains Catherine.
Site drainage considerations: Many campgrounds in the region have significant drainage issues after rain. "Our site was muddy when we arrived and only got worse due to only having 2 days with no rain. That said it was one of the widest in the strip," reports Kelley M. at Buckeye Lake KOA.
Reservation requirements: Several parks have limited availability for weekend camping. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I'm sure it's pretty and all, but it's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio!" explains Joaquim P. about Scioto Grove Metro Park.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Jackson Lake Park and other campgrounds may have inconsistent bathroom maintenance. "They were VERY far from the camp area (the one in the arcade room was close but it was closed after 11pm) and the bathrooms they did have only typically had one working stall," notes Jess N.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal or no coverage. "There is no cell service. Be sure to give anyone who may need to contact you a heads up," advises Sydney about Tar Hollow State Park.
Consider site proximity to bathrooms: At most campgrounds, bathroom access requires planning. "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!" warns Amanda P. about Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Look for designated kid activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programming. "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," shares Chris C. about Jackson Lake Park.
Scout tent sites before setting up: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Many of the campsites are situated on pretty intense slopes. 106 wasn't too bad. I would guess 105 is probably the most level site in the campground," advises Sydney about Tar Hollow.
Reserve early for holiday weekends: Holiday periods fill completely at most campgrounds. "We booked last minute on a holiday weekend and had like 2 options for a spot. I wasn't happy with our spot but again that's my own fault," shares Samantha H. about Jackson Lake Park.
Check hookup accessibility: Water connections at some campgrounds require extra equipment. "We appreciated the full hook-ups and pull through site. But, the water hook ups were accessible through a hole/pipe and we had to 'fish' down to connect our hose," explains Chris C. about Jackson Lake Park.
Consider site levelness: Many RV sites require significant leveling. "Most sites are level and spacious. There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)," reports Meghan H. about Hocking Hills State Park.
Seasonal options exist: Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA offers extended stay options. "We may return next year for a little while until we can find more permanent space for the summer. We appreciate the space and cleanliness of the campground!" notes Kelley M.
Event-based campgrounds available: Fairgrounds camping provides basic accommodations for special events. "Easy access to sites. Staff could take a lesson in hospitality and giving directions on park," mentions Paul G. about camping facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Lithopolis, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Lithopolis, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 115 campgrounds and RV parks near Lithopolis, OH and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Lithopolis, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lithopolis, OH is A.W. Marion State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 35 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lithopolis, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Lithopolis, OH.
What parks are near Lithopolis, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Lithopolis, OH that allow camping, notably Deer Creek Lake and Alum Creek Lake.
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