Camping options near Nelsonville, Ohio include a mix of state park facilities and private RV parks. Located within the Appalachian foothills, this region features forested hills with elevations between 700-1000 feet and humid summers with average July temperatures of 85°F. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, though some offer year-round access.
What to do
Water activities at Burr Oak Lake: The 664-acre lake at Burr Oak State Park Campground offers swimming at the designated beach area, fishing, and boat rentals. "We hope to come back and back pack one of the trails," notes a visitor who stayed at the lodge.
Kayaking from local campgrounds: Riversedge Campground provides kayak rentals with upstream drop-off service. "If you decide to rent a kayak they will even drop you off upstream to start your trip," reports a camper who appreciated this convenient service.
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple trails in Wayne National Forest offer opportunities for day hiking and geocaching. "The Blue Trail goes through here and provides a fun hike," mentions a visitor about trails accessible from Burr Oak's group camping area.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites positioned along the Hocking River provide direct water access. "This small and cost effective campground is so awesome! The river is small and is perfect to have a fire right next to," writes a visitor to Hocking River RV Park.
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restroom facilities. "The bathroom/shower facility are private individual units and are the cleanest we have ever seen," notes a camper at Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds.
Hospitality touches: Some campground hosts provide special amenities. "On our last day she brought us warm cinnamon rolls and coffee. We enjoyed them by our fire as we watched the mist gently float over the water," shares a tent camper describing their experience at Riversedge Campground.
What you should know
Site terrain variations: Campground topography can present challenges at some locations. "Our site #14 was very hilly but at least it had a tent pad at the bottom of the hill so it was flat where we were sleeping," reports a Burr Oak camper about their Labor Day weekend stay.
Limited cell reception: The hilly terrain affects connectivity. "Fairly remote, cell service is dicey but if that is what you are going for, you will be pleased," explains a reviewer at Burr Oak State Park.
Seasonal considerations: RV parks near Nelsonville, Ohio can reach capacity during fall foliage season and summer holidays. "In the 90's so very few spots taken," notes a camper describing the lighter mid-summer occupancy at Burr Oak, where heat deters some visitors.
Water access limitations: River access varies by campground. "Figured we'd bring some swim suits since it's on the river but there really wasn't any way to the river as the bank was about 5 feet up," explains a visitor about difficulties accessing the Hocking River from their campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: When choosing RV parks near Nelsonville, look for dedicated children's facilities. "There is a nice sized sand ground play set with swings and 2 slides, an air pillow (blob) putt putt, a trail to the lake, a dog run, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room," lists a reviewer at Hilltop Resorts.
Water activities for children: Consider campgrounds with swimming options. "Great campground outside of Columbus. Perfect for a quick weekend away that you don't want to spend a whole day driving. Plenty of things to do including: jump pad, mini golf, basketball, hiking, fishing and kayaking. Our 5 year old had a blast!" shares a family who stayed at Hilltop Resorts.
Check for playground facilities: Not all campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "No playground which made camping with kids very uneventful for them," mentions a camper from Hocking River RV Park, suggesting families should research entertainment options before booking.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV sites at some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Pull through spots require a little bit of maneuvering with big rig (43' fifth wheel). There was some mud where camper wheels were situated in the spot (needs material)," notes a visitor to Lakeview RV Park.
Water fill stations: Some campgrounds offer electric but not direct water hookups. "The water is after you pull in so you have to pull in fill up and go back around to your spot," explains a camper about Hocking River RV Park's setup.
Easy-access sites for larger vehicles: Specific campgrounds accommodate easier entry and departure. "Staff is very friendly and we got a nice pull through site for a quick stop over my way to upper Michigan. There's a really nice pond and has water activities if you stay longer. Easy in/out," reports a reviewer about Lakeview RV Park.
