Equestrian camping options around Newark, Ohio extend beyond just Dillon State Park. The region sits within the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet and a humid continental climate bringing distinct seasons. Horse owners seeking trail riding experiences can find additional facilities at several parks within a 60-mile radius, though advance planning remains essential for trailer parking and site selection.
What to do
Trail riding beyond the park: Multiple state parks within driving distance of Newark offer equestrian trails. At Mohican State Park Campground, riders can explore extensive options, as one visitor notes: "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites. There are 4 on the mountain bike trail and 6 on the horse trails, first come first serve, no reservations."
Swimming after rides: When temperatures climb, both riders and horses can cool off at several parks. Alum Creek State Park Campground features "a campground beach and boat launch. Lost of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area. A great dog park with lake entrance for the pups. There is also some mountain bike trails. Plenty to do for everyone."
Geocaching adventures: The region offers numerous geocaching opportunities along trails. At Burr Oak State Park, "Lots of geocasches in the area on the trails in Wayne national forest. The docks have near constant traffic but it's not super busy. Just a car every few hours."
What campers like
Spacious sites for trailers: Delaware State Park Campground provides ample room for rigs and trailers. One camper observed: "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. There are 212 sites that have 50 amp electric."
Natural water access: Riders appreciate direct lake and river access for horses. Mohican Wilderness offers "riverfront sites. Site 810 in the Narrows. Our site was a little muddy and a little smaller than other sites but overall we were very happy with the campground and would camp there again!"
Privacy between sites: Unlike the more open setup at Dillon, some parks offer more seclusion. A visitor to Delaware State Park noted: "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. There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground."
What you should know
Off-season considerations: Winter camping requires preparation but offers solitude. An equestrian at Mohican State Park reported: "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."
Site leveling challenges: Not all sites accommodate large trailers equally. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, "The sites were quiet and clean! Make sure to pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites!"
Facility limitations: Some parks lack dedicated equestrian amenities. Blue Rock State Park offers "nice little campground. We had a secluded site right beside the creek. The only negative was no flush toilets, only pits and no sink to wash hands, but there was hand sanitizer at least."
Tips for camping with families
Choose pods with playgrounds: Delaware State Park features family-friendly layouts: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dillon State Park Campground offers consistent wildlife encounters: "My partner and I have been here for 3 days, were staying for a week. So far everyone has been friendly or keeps to themselves. The bathrooms and showers are clean and the deer are plentiful and beautiful."
Scout-friendly areas: Several parks welcome organized youth groups. "Burr Oak is popular for Scouting campouts and popular with local boaters. Hiking trails are good, the lodge has been renovated, however, I have not stayed there since the reno."
Tips from RVers
Water access planning: Full hookups are limited in the region. At Alum Creek State Park, "There is no sewer or water at individual sites but there is a dump station and water fill station near the park entrance. Roads and campsites are paved with grassy patios that feature picnic tables and fire pits."
Satellite and cell service: Coverage varies significantly. At Mohican State Park, one RVer noted: "No cell service with Verizon at this park," while Delaware State Park campers reported: "Located near the town of Delaware, you aren't too far off the beaten path and we even had decent service with Verizon."
