Glamping close to Manchester, Ohio sits in a heavily forested region where the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains begin to rise. Most sites in this area are positioned at elevations ranging from 500-900 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby Cincinnati. Area campgrounds typically offer electric service ranging from 30-50 amps, with water access points spaced throughout camping loops.
What to do
Water activities at Zilpo Campground: Located about 50 minutes from Manchester, this campground provides direct lake access with a beach area for swimming. "Great campground with a lot of privacy! In walking distance to the lake so you can have a nice swim. Always beautiful," notes one camper at Zilpo Campground.
Explore cave systems: Carter Caves State Resort Park offers both self-guided and ranger-led cave tours through limestone formations. "The park has a lot to do, not just the caves. There's tons of waterfalls off the trails, and other things to see. The caves are great to explore as well. Grab a ranger-guided tour and learn something!" shares a visitor at Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground.
Hiking options: The region features trail systems ranging from beginner to advanced. "The hiking was beautiful and accessible. Just a beautiful park. Clean well maintained. Lots of amenities. Paddle boats, marina, 18 hole disc golf, bike park, huge dog park, store, archery range, playground and trails," reports a camper at Shawnee State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many glamping locations near Manchester offer sites with natural separation. "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 a reviewer about Shawnee State Park.
Lake views and access: Water-adjacent sites are consistently rated highest. "We stayed in one of the 'premium' sites, right on the water F19. The view was incredible. The campground was quiet and the facilities clean. Perfect spot," shares a visitor at Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Family-friendly amenities: Recreational options beyond natural features are common. "Plenty of things to do. The bathrooms, showers and camping sites are always well maintained and clean! It is my favorite place to camp," notes a reviewer at Long's Retreat Family Resort.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Most glamping sites have spotty or no service. "This campground has some features that are nicer than what is found in many state campgrounds. There are some secluded sites back in the woods... There is absolutely no cell service in the Campground," explains a visitor to Shawnee State Park.
Seasonal availability: Many sites close during winter months. "Camped three days in September 2020. Not a bad place to camp but has the feel of a commercial campground. There's a distinct lack of charm. It's geared more toward those who own boats and like fishing over hiking," notes a camper at Rocky Fork State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Premium sites book months in advance, especially during peak season. "We stay here at least once a year! Usually with a large group! Lots for kid to do! We had two campers on the site with plenty of room. One is 37 ft and the other is 24 ft," shares a Twin Knobs camper.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for different ages: The region offers both beach swimming and boating options. "We have been going here for the last 6 summers with a big group (nearly 30 kids with us). Everyone always has such a great time and it is the highlight of all the kids summers. The kids can either swim up at the lake (with multiple water slides and a huge floating dock with diving board), the little kids can have fun in the splash pad right at the beach," reports a Long's Retreat visitor.
Playground access: Look for sites near recreational areas. "The campground had fun amenities for kids, like a very small mini golf course and an outdoor screen for movie nights. The shower houses were clean and the small camp store convenient," explains a Shawnee State Park camper.
Pet-friendly options: Most sites welcome pets with standard restrictions. "Very friendly people and my dog loved the dog park," notes a visitor to Ashland Huntington West KOA.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Check specifics when booking. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites though," advises a Carter Caves camper.
Leveling challenges: Many glamping sites near Manchester have uneven terrain. "Sites are very tightly packed together and feels like I'm in someone's backyard that is having trouble growing grass," warns a Rocky Fork visitor, while another notes that "sites could use some solid level pads to set up your rv."
Site selection for larger rigs: Research specific site dimensions before arrival. "I recommend site 82, 83, 85, or 78. Great trails, nice lake, plenty of shade and creeks. Not much access to a good town for supplies so bring what you need," suggests a Shawnee State Park camper.
