Camping opportunities near Bellefontaine, Ohio center around several state parks within a 30-40 mile radius. The region sits at approximately 1,550 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest points in Ohio with terrain featuring gentle rolling hills and small lakes. Seasonal camping runs from April through October with most facilities, though some campgrounds maintain year-round access with limited winter amenities.
What to do
Paddle on motor-free waters: At Kiser Lake State Park Campground, visitors enjoy a unique paddling experience on a no-motor lake. "This park is know for the lake that is kayak and canoe friendly since it doesn't allow any kind of boat with a motor. It also features a beach, 2 playgrounds and several hiking trails," shares Andrea F. The park rents canoes and kayaks at reasonable prices from the marina.
Explore hiking paths: The region offers various trail systems for day hikes ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "We did notice lots of downed trees on the poorly marked hiking trails. Some trails just started but no maps were around and no trails were blazed," notes Andrea F. about Kiser Lake trails, highlighting the importance of bringing your own trail map or GPS device.
Try disc golf: Delaware State Park Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course among its recreation options. The course weaves through wooded areas and open fields, providing challenges for different skill levels. Beyond disc golf, the park has "plenty of space to walk the pups" as Marshall P. mentions, making it suitable for those camping with pets.
What campers like
Secluded, wooded sites: Buck Creek State Park Campground offers a mix of camping environments. "I was looking for a backcountry camping site that would give me some privacy and make it feel as though I was deep in the woods. Buckcreek had great hammock camping spots and was just what we were looking for," explains Mandi B. The non-electric loop tends to be quieter with partial shade from surrounding trees.
Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds in the area regularly schedule weekend events for children. At Buck Creek, "They have pancake breakfast on Saturday mornings through summer and doughnuts on Sunday. Helpful camphost," notes Jill B. from a different campground with similar programming. Many campsites organize movie nights and seasonal celebrations, particularly during summer holidays.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks in the region feature good fishing access. "A hidden gem, super quiet, low traffic and decent fishing," writes Buck B. about Kiser Lake. Most lakes in the area contain bass, bluegill, and catfish, with fishing licenses required for anyone 16 and older, available online or at local bait shops for $25 for an annual resident license.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Campground bathrooms range significantly in quality and maintenance. "There is a new shower house that's pretty nice, but the other bathrooms are pretty nasty," reports Aaliya B. about Kiser Lake. At some campgrounds, facilities may close seasonally or have limited maintenance during off-peak periods.
Limited cell coverage: Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the region's campgrounds. "We did have good Verizon cell coverage," mentions Andrea F. about Kiser Lake, while at Alum Creek State Park Campground, service depends on carrier with reports that "Att works good here verizion not so much but at night when people are sleeping verizion gets a little better," according to Joe I.
Site selection matters: Choose sites carefully based on your camping style and preferences. "I'd pick a site along the perimeter or along the lake," suggests Megan M. about site selection. At many campgrounds, "Sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," warns Katelyn P.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds within loops: Most campgrounds feature multiple play areas. "The campground itself has 20 electric sites, 56 primitive sites and 4 camper cabins. All the electric sites are pull through and all sites have a fire pit but only the electric sites come with picnic tables," notes Andrea F. about Kiser Lake facilities. This arrangement allows families to camp near play areas.
Consider cabin options for novice campers: Delaware State Park Campground offers yurts for rent May through October. These provide a middle ground between tent camping and RVs. "The campground also has yurts for rent (May through October) that are furnished with beds, table and chairs, a cooler, ceiling fan, outdoor charcoal grill and a picnic table with canopy," explains a camper, making them ideal for families new to camping.
Check for weekend programming: "I like that they have activities throughout the day for kids on the weekends," shares Andrew L. about Kiser Lake. Many parks in the region organize ranger-led programs, craft activities, and nature walks specifically designed for children, typically scheduled on weekend mornings during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Electric sites are limited: While full hookup sites exist at several campgrounds, they're not standard. "The campground has no full hookups but does have electric. RV sites have a view of the lake. Sites are clean and paved," explains Aaliya B. about Kiser Lake. Reservations for electric sites should be made well in advance, especially during summer months.
Loop layout affects privacy: Many campgrounds use a pod-style design that impacts site spacing. "The 'pod' layout of the campground made for large campsites (some sites are over 90 feet in length and well suited for large RV's) with good separation between sites," notes a camper about Delaware State Park. This design means corner sites often offer more privacy than interior locations.
