Equestrian camping options exist within driving distance of Milford Center, Ohio, though accommodations for horses require advance planning. Situated in central Ohio at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, the region features gently rolling terrain with a mix of agricultural land and forested areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, making it suitable for overnight camping from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Alum Creek State Park Campground, riders can access multi-use paths within the park system. As one visitor notes, "There is a campground beach and boat launch. Lost of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area... There is also some mountain bike trails. Plenty to do for everyone."
Fishing from shore: Fish in the calm waters at Kiser Lake State Park Campground where motors aren't permitted. A regular visitor mentions, "Super quiet, good fishing" and another adds it's a "hidden gem, super quiet, low traffic and decent fishing."
Explore nearby attractions: When staying at Buck Creek State Park Campground, consider visiting regional points of interest. One camper shares, "We visited the Ohio Caverns. The tour is worth the money, the 'gem' mining was fun for our younger kids... Yellow Springs is a great, funky town. Many great places to eat. Dark Star Used Bookstore is a must see every time we visit."
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Delaware State Park offers well-separated camping areas. A visitor explains, "What I liked most about this park is that all the sites have privacy. There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground." Another notes, "The site we were on was set back in the woods. My daughter had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site."
Quiet atmosphere: Kiser Lake State Park Campground provides a peaceful environment away from motorized boats. As one camper describes, "This park is known 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."
Seasonal programming: Many campgrounds near Milford Center offer special weekend activities. At Buck Creek, a visitor shared, "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."
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: While multi-use trails exist, few designated horse camping accommodations are available near Milford Center. At Delaware State Park Campground, "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."
Weather considerations: Campsites can become challenging after rain. One camper at Alum Creek warns, "Sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather."
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and maintenance of facilities differs between campgrounds. At Kiser Lake, a visitor notes, "There is no running water- no showers and smelly pit toilets. There is one spigot for drinking water." Meanwhile, at Buck Creek, "Bathrooms were clean but not spotless and in need of a little repair."
Tips for camping with families
Select sites strategically: Choose locations that balance privacy with access to amenities. At Buck Creek State Park Campground, "We loved our campsite 41 which I found is next to impossible to get! But it has shade almost all day and it only has a camper on one side plus is close to the bathroom."
Consider non-electric tent areas: For a more secluded family experience, one camper shares, "Over a late-August weekend, we found the non-electric loop to be pretty quiet and uncrowded. The grounds are level and grassy, with trees that provide partial shade."
Plan for beach activities: Families appreciate the dedicated swimming areas. A visitor to Alum Creek notes, "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 and we even got close to wildlife (aka some pesky raccoons)."
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Electric hookups are standard at most established campgrounds near Milford Center, but full hookups are limited. At Alum Creek State Park Campground, "There are some full hook ups but mostly just electric. We love that electric is included and was helpful for plugging in fans during the hot night."
Site leveling: Most RV sites in the area require minimal leveling. Buck Creek campers report, "This park was pretty packed over Labor Day weekend, but it still felt like it wasn't super crowded. Our space was nice and level."
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds adjust services seasonally. At Korbel Campgrounds at Ohio Expo Center, "Nov 1 - Apr 1, no water is available," making it important to check current amenities when planning equestrian camping trips during shoulder seasons.
