Camping sites near Bloomingdale, Ohio are scattered throughout Jefferson County at elevations between 1,000-1,400 feet, creating varied terrain for both tent and RV camping experiences. The region experiences significant seasonal variation with summer high temperatures averaging 82°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most local campgrounds maintain operating seasons from April through October due to winter conditions that make water systems and road access challenging.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Atwood Lake Park Campground, visitors can fish directly from their waterfront campsites. "We could leave our camper, take the boat over to the beach and drop off the grandkids and me the Nana for swimming at the beach dock. Good fishing, clean clean clean," reports one camper who regularly visits the area.
Hiking trails: Several miles of trails extend through Harrison State Forest at Ronsheim Campground, offering quiet woodland hiking. While relatively basic in amenities, visitors note the peaceful setting: "It's nothing much, there isn't much in the way of activity save a few trails. However if you like adding trails to your list or you're fine with driving a little bit to Harrison or Salt Fork, they aren't far away at all."
Stargazing opportunities: Some campgrounds organize seasonal astronomy programs. As one visitor to Barkcamp State Park Campground noted, "Oglebay comes out and has star gazing when it's in season." The park's location away from major light pollution makes it suitable for night sky viewing during clear conditions.
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, several area lakes offer swimming and boating options. "There is a lake (one of the smallest I've seen in a state park), some trails and a small campground. If you kayak, you could spend about two hours exploring the different bends in the lake," explains a visitor describing Barkcamp's water features.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Free camping areas near Bloomingdale provide basic amenities for self-sufficient campers. A visitor to Ronsheim Campground states, "The overall reason I gave 5 stars though, is because it's free." These sites typically have vault toilets but limited other facilities.
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and recreational facilities make certain campgrounds particularly suitable for families with children. At Tappan Lake Park Campground, "Volleyball courts, and basketball courts were all in good condition. Plenty of hiking trails throughout the park," according to a recent visitor.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness varies significantly across the region, with some facilities receiving consistent praise. "The park was relatively clean and well organized. The staff was very friendly and helpful," notes a camper at Tappan Lake Park, specifically mentioning the quality of "restrooms, showers, and laundromat."
Concrete pads at select sites: Some campgrounds feature improved camping pads that stay level regardless of weather. "Sites are new, clean, full hookups, with plenty of paved surfaces to park. Camper sites are level and the hookups are new and easy to use," reports a visitor describing Section 5 at Tappan Lake Park.
What you should know
Varying site quality: Even within the same campground, site quality can differ dramatically. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, "It's the kind of place that has some really great sits and some not so great. But we personally always love making a trip here," explains one regular visitor.
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds become considerably louder on weekends and holidays. "We needed a place to crash after traveling all day and knew it was going to be a quick turnaround so we stumbled upon this campsite. It served its purpose as it allowed us to rest for the night. However, I didn't feel very safe! All through the night there were sketchy cars and trucks in and out of the campground," reports one visitor about their mid-week experience.
Gun range proximity: Several camping areas near Bloomingdale are located near shooting ranges, creating background noise during daytime hours. One camper notes, "The campground is situated near shooting ranges so the gunfire lasts late into the evening and begins early in the morning disrupting the serenity a bit."
Cell service limitations: Mobile phone coverage varies significantly across the area. One visitor to Tappan Lake Park reported, "I have AT&T cell service and found 1 and 2 bars throughout the park," while others found no service at different campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Beach amenities: Raccoon Creek State Park Campground offers swimming options specifically designed for younger visitors. "I had the most wonderful time on my first tent camping at Racoon Creek. We made a fire, hiked by the moonlight and swam at the warm lake at night," shares one camper about their experience.
Dedicated pet areas: Several campgrounds accommodate family pets with designated spaces. "Designated pet areas, flush toilets and shower house available. Plenty of trails," notes a visitor to Raccoon Creek State Park. When planning with pets, verify which loops allow animals as policies vary by campground.
Water recreation costs: While swimming areas are typically included with camping fees, other water activities often require additional payment. A visitor to Austin Lake RV Park warns, "Austin lake offers plenty of fun with the lake. Kayaking, inflatables, beach, but almost anything you want to do will cost you an additional charge."
Campground security: Parents should research safety features when selecting family camping locations. Some free campgrounds have less oversight than state parks or private facilities. A visitor to one area noted, "Every night is a party for all the permanent sites," highlighting the importance of researching campground atmosphere before booking.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many camping areas near Bloomingdale feature sloped terrain requiring leveling blocks. "We were in sight 32 f loop. It is sunny so pick your spots," advises an RV camper at Raccoon Creek, noting the importance of selecting level sites when possible.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads that require careful navigation for larger rigs. At Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins, "Be advised it will seem a little sketchy getting in. The road dead-ends into the campground and it is all downhill getting there. Take your time and all will be just fine. Our rig is 39' & 16K. 4wd low helps, not cause you need 4wd just for the lower gears," cautions an experienced RVer.
Hookup variations: Full-service sites are limited in some campgrounds. "Self-register with cards located at pit latrine building. 14 days every 30. No problem getting 40' skoolie in and parked in mostly level spots," reports a visitor describing their experience at one of the primitive camping areas, noting the absence of standard hookups.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks in the region close water systems during winter months. "We stayed in area 5. Awesome place. It was late October so most things were closed. We'll definitely be back in 2024," notes a visitor to Tappan Lake, highlighting the reduced amenities during shoulder seasons.
