Cabin accommodations near Mount Gilead, Ohio range from rustic to deluxe, with most properties nestled among the region's mature forests. The area sits at approximately 1,150 feet elevation and experiences four distinct seasons, making cabin camping viable from early spring through late fall. Winter cabin stays are available at select locations with proper heating systems and maintained access roads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Delaware State Park Campground provides well-maintained fishing areas around the 1,300-acre reservoir. "There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground," notes Maddy B., who particularly enjoyed the spacious, private sites.
Shooting sports: Cardinal Center Campground offers extensive shooting facilities including archery, pistol, and rifle ranges. "We stayed two nights here on our tour of Ohio. After staying in state parks, the narrow sites are close with no privacy. Our pull through site was on the (inner) road, so lots of golf carts, cars and campers passing by," reports Brenda M.
Water recreation: At Alum Creek State Park Campground, campers enjoy both a small beach within the campground and a larger public beach nearby. "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., highlighting the convenience of electric hookups for fans during hot summer nights.
Hiking trails: Several interconnected hiking trails wind through the wooded areas surrounding most cabins. "There is a nice indoor pool, stocked fishing pond, and an indoor clubhouse with a pool table. The sites next to us were empty but the way it was set up, the site next to us would have had an rv angled right behind us," describes Renee L. about Cardinal Center.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Delaware State Park stands out for its secluded camping atmosphere. "This is probably our favourite state park we have been to thus far. The best thing about this campground is the fact that all the sites have privacy," explains Maddy B., who appreciated the natural separation between sites.
Clean, maintained facilities: Mohican State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its upkeep. "Beautiful campsites on the water and near it. Playgrounds, cabins, camper cabins, tent sites & camper sites. Some camper sites have electric & water," shares Renée C., who recommends visiting in winter when the park is less crowded.
Organized activities: Sunbury/Columbus North KOA Holiday offers structured recreation for all ages. "Very well kept campground with TONS of staff always circulating around and eager to help with anything you need. Kids aged 3-13 all had a blast in the heated pool, on the jump pad and on the zip line swing," reports Jennifer K.
Farm settings: Buckeye Run Farm provides a unique agricultural experience alongside comfortable accommodations. "Absolute beautiful farm with plenty of space for various tents and a gorgeous cabin. Adorable and friendly variety of animals. We loved the donkeys and horses," shares Cody M., who particularly enjoyed the farm atmosphere.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods. "We went camping early October in tents. It was cold but it was so much fun," reports Maddy B. about Delaware State Park, indicating that shoulder seasons offer greater availability.
Amenities vary significantly: Cross Creek Camping Resort exemplifies the range of facilities available. "Nice grass for your tent and plenty of shade. Lots of traffic both vehicles and people on foot. Sites are spaced fairly well but fully open to each other," notes Bruce K.
Seasonal operations: Weather influences availability and services. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," mentions Andrea F. about Mohican State Park, adding that "camping in the off season is our favorite time of year. This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off."
Visitor fees: Some properties charge for day visitors. "Our adult children joined us for a few hours one evening to cook out. Did not stay. But each was charged a $10 entrance fee," reports Beth G. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Columbus.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Columbus specializes in family entertainment. "The whole family loves this campground - even the teenagers! The lake is a hit so much that we never go to the pool. Having free, unlimited access to pedal boats and other boats is a huge treat," shares Bill T.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "This summer my family has went to many campgrounds and by far Delaware has been our favorite. The site we were on was set back in the woods. My daughter had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site," explains Ashley R.
Swimming options: Water features rank high with families. "They have a nice indoor pool and shower rooms attached," mentions Andrea F. about Cardinal Center Campground, while Jenny C. specifically recommends "the campground beach" at Alum Creek as "an absolute must."
Event weekends: Holiday and themed weekends offer additional programming. "We were there for the Halloween weekend and it was amazing. Can't wait to go back," says Lauri C. about Cross Creek Camping Resort, which regularly schedules seasonal activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level spots with adequate space. "The sites and road were gravel. They have an indoor pool, stocked fishing pond, and an indoor clubhouse with a pool table. The sites next to us were empty but the way it was set up, the site next to us would have had an rv angled right behind us," advises Renee L. about Cardinal Center.
Utility hookups: Verify what connections are available at your specific cabin. "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. about Alum Creek State Park.
Campground layout: Sunbury/Columbus North KOA Holiday offers well-designed RV access. "This is a hugely spaced out camp with ample space to each site and great amenities for kids & dogs. Immaculate and well run. Late check in was easy, requests were honored," notes Sarah C.
Winter operations: For off-season stays, check which facilities remain open. "We have visited the Cardinal Center several times for shooting and waterfowl events but did camp there for the first time over Thanksgiving," shares Andrea F., noting the indoor facilities available during colder months.
