East Fork State Park Campground offers the most extensive camping options near Loveland, Ohio, with 416 sites spread across a 4,870-acre park. Located 12 miles from Loveland, this park features multiple camping areas including sites suitable for equestrian use. The park's 2,160-acre lake provides water recreation opportunities with seasonal temperature variations from winter lows averaging 23°F to summer highs around 85°F.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: At Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground, equestrians can access dedicated bridle trails from the Horsemen's Camp. "I came here and stayed in my tent (family had their horse trailer with camper) for a night during the chilly nights of October. I wish all campsites were like these - very, very spread out!" notes Brady R.
Mountain biking: The trail system at East Fork State Park Campground provides opportunities for cyclists of various skill levels. Caleb S. describes it as "Not a bad little park for mountain biking, hiking, etc." The park maintains several miles of bike-friendly paths that connect camping areas to recreational facilities.
Disc golf: Sycamore State Park offers a complete disc golf course as part of its recreational amenities. "This park has such a variety of things to do. There's a great disc golf course, really nice trails to hike with challenging hills," explains Heidi G. The course is accessible year-round and doesn't require reservations.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: The Horsemen's Camp at Whitewater Memorial State Park provides unusually large campsites designed specifically for horse trailers and equestrian camping. Brady R. explains why these sites stand out: "Totally makes sense given that you have large horse trailers/campers and also horses at each site, but even then, they were very spread out and had lots of great space to actually enjoy nature."
Private camping options: Five Rivers Metroparks offers a different experience than typical campgrounds with more isolation between sites. Kenpocentaur K. notes about Twin Creek: "This is an old boy scout camp (Camp Hook) back in the day. During these COVID-19 times we wanted a place to park that wasn't the traditional Ohio State Parks camp site. We didn't want to share a common bathroom/bath house or playground area."
Lakeside camping: A.J. Jolly Park & Campground provides waterfront sites popular with anglers and paddlers. Anna N. describes it simply: "Close to Cincinnati but each site is wooded and on lake front, lots to do!" The campground's proximity to Loveland (about 30 minutes) makes it convenient for weekend trips.
What you should know
Site limitations: Many campgrounds near Loveland have limitations for larger RVs and trailers. Jeffrey from A.J. Jolly Park notes, "Campgrounds were designed for pop up campers limited sites for RVs an Travel Trailers."
Seasonal crowds: Cowan Lake State Park Campground can get busy during peak times. "The campground was filled with parents and kids riding bikes, playing, and having fun. Nobody was out of control or obnoxious. Plenty of dogs were present," reports Kim H. Reservations are recommended, especially for equestrian sites which are limited.
Bathroom facilities vary: While some campgrounds have modern restrooms, others provide more basic facilities. At Whitewater Memorial State Park's Horse Campground, Brady R. cautions, "Another flaw is that the bathrooms in the horse campground aren't modern and they're pit toilets. Even with the cooler weather, they still wreaked and were not pleasant to use."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Winton Woods Campground offers family-friendly amenities close to Loveland. Anne H. explains, "There is a playground for children, and a camp store that sells firewood and supplies. The campground is also near paved and unpaved trails in the park that surround more of the lake which allows for walking/running/hiking and bicycling."
Educational opportunities: Five Rivers Metroparks provides learning experiences along trails. Kenpocentaur K. notes, "I loved the informational boxes and tags that they had on the trees or plants. This is helpful if you have little ones with you or if you are like me and just like to learn about the animals/plants on the trail."
Water recreation for kids: East Fork State Park has dedicated swimming areas for families. Andrea F. points out, "There is also a beach and marina for campers away from the main beach and marina for those just visiting the park for the day. The nature center offered movies in the evening for guest."
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: At Hueston Woods State Park Campground, RVers should be prepared for site layouts that may not align perfectly with rig designs. Jeffrey notes about A.J. Jolly, "Water hook ups are on the opposite side of electrical on several sites." This is common at several campgrounds in the region.
Site selection strategy: When choosing sites for equestrian camping near Loveland, select based on accessibility needs. "The camp site does have two spots that would be neat for a wedding. You can reserve an amphitheater," advises Kenpocentaur K. about Five Rivers Metroparks, indicating the importance of planning for specific site features.
