Delaware State Park Campground offers more than just basic camping. Located north of Delaware, Ohio, the park spans over 2,000 acres with multiple camping areas arranged in a pod layout. The terrain includes wooded areas alternating with open spaces, creating various options for different camping preferences. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making it a popular destination for autumn camping.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: The park features connecting trails that let you customize your hike length. At Alum Creek State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the variety: "There are plenty of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area. There are also some mountain bike trails," notes Jill B.
Fishing access: Multiple lake access points make fishing convenient. At Kiser Lake State Park Campground, anglers find "decent fishing" according to Buck B., who calls it a "hidden gem, super quiet, low traffic."
Beach activities: The campground beach offers swimming options separate from the main public beach. "We had an absolute blast at the campsite! We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must," shares Jenny C. about her experience at Alum Creek.
Boat rentals: For water enthusiasts without their own equipment, boat rentals provide lake access. Kiser Lake offers "canoe and kayak rentals at a reasonable price," according to Andrew L.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: The pod layout creates good separation between campsites. At Delaware State Park Campground, Maddy B. reports: "The best thing about this campground is the fact that all the sites have privacy." Sites accommodate various camping styles, with many over 90 feet long.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers note the peaceful environment. Ashley R. shares: "Delaware has been our favorite campground since we found it. The staff is always very friendly and helpful. The grounds are very clean and tidy."
Clean facilities: The bathhouses receive positive mentions. Marshall P. notes: "The campground is setup in a nice layout with each of the separate sections having a spoke and wheel layout with a bathhouse in the middle. Sites are roomy and we like the wooded feel."
Storm shelter access: Safety features are highlighted by some reviewers. "I also noticed they had a nice storm shelter on the property that was well marked and easy to get to from any of the campground areas," Marshall P. adds about Delaware State Park.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: While none of the campgrounds near Marysville specifically advertise horse corrals, Buck Creek State Park Campground offers some equestrian-friendly features. Campers should call ahead about accommodating horses.
Weather considerations: Sites can become challenging after rain. Jan B. notes at Alum Creek: "First Campground site I went to had a large mud puddle full of hornets. I asked to move site and was accommodated. It was right after a heavy rain storm."
Reservation system: Most sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. Joe I. mentions about Delaware: "This is our second time coming here really enjoy this place it's typically more of a quiet relaxed camp."
Cell service varies: Coverage can be spotty depending on carrier. At Delaware, Joe notes: "Att works good here verizion not so much but at night when people are sleeping verizion gets a little better."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Each camping section includes a play area. At Delaware, Joe I. notes there is "a playground in each of the 4 sections for kids to play with a remodel shower house at each one."
Weekend activities: Buck Creek State Park Campground offers organized events. Melissa M. shares: "Camp host on I think lot 71 or there about were great at keeping the activities going. Every night there was a movie and you could buy root beer floats for $1!! And the kids loved it."
Biking opportunities: The campground roads provide safe areas for children to ride. Buck B. mentions about Buck Creek: "My sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes."
Exploring options: The wooded sites offer natural play areas. Ashley R. reports about Delaware: "My daughter had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RVers seeking horse-friendly camping near Marysville, Ohio, outside loops often provide better access. For Korbel Campgrounds at Ohio Expo Center, Linda G. advises: "We like this kind of basic camping as we have a motorhome and use our own facilities. Park on grass site, level."
Hookup availability: RV sites have 50-amp electrical service, but no individual water or sewer. Sandy O. appreciates Alum Creek's "addition of several full hook up sites!"
Site length considerations: Many sites accommodate large rigs and horse trailers. Catherine notes at Alum Creek: "The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush."
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds allow seasonal camping. Catherine adds: "Most sites are booked by seasonal campers who pay for the whole season and leave their RV/set-ups in one place the whole season, so all the choice sites (ie lakefront) are always taken."
