West Branch State Park Campground offers multiple campsite options beyond its equestrian area for visitors near Deerfield, Ohio. The park spans 5,000 acres with varied terrain including open meadows, wooded areas, and waterfront sites. Temperatures range from winter lows averaging 20°F to summer highs reaching 80-85°F, with heaviest rainfall occurring April through June.
What to do
Lakeside activities: West Branch State Park provides ample water recreation with its large reservoir. "We also took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear," notes Andrea F. about her experience at West Branch. The park has designated launch areas and a camper beach.
Fishing spots: Mosquito Lake State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities in its large lake. "Went with my father in law on a spur of the moment fishing trip. Didn't have much for walk in sites but we were able to find a great site. It was plenty big. We didn't have water access but they had plenty of sites with access and a boat ramp," reports Darren R.
Historical exploration: Visit the pioneer village at Beaver Creek State Park Campground. "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)," writes Shay D.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous site sizes at West Branch State Park. "The sites are huge. Separate showers verizon works well here," reports Joe I. This provides privacy and room for equipment setup.
Clean facilities: Jefferson Lake State Park Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "Very clean pit toilets and the campground overall was well maintained. Fire pits have a nice grate to flip over and cook on (this varied highly bw Ohio campgrounds)," mentions Kellie A.
Family-friendly amenities: Parents value the recreational options for children. "There is a small beach at the campground but a larger one on the other side of the lake. There is a boat launch at the campground. There are playgrounds for the children. An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," shares Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. "On first impression we were not impressed with this park. First the water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full... our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches," reports Andrea F. about West Branch.
Limited facilities at some locations: Hidden Hollow Campground offers free camping but with basic amenities. "Pit toilets and no source of safe, clean water anymore. Very quiet everytime I've camped there, many times btw. Great, quiet, close to nature experience," explains Joe W.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: West Branch State Park offers excellent play areas for children. "Nice playground with toy stocked sandpit, volleyball net, cheap laundry ($3 per load, wash and dry), dishwashing sinks, showers, and clean bathrooms. There was even a step stool for kids to be able to reach the sinks," notes Lee D.
Beach activities: Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday offers family-friendly water recreation. "Took the family there and loved it. It's clean and quiet. Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly," shares Bradley B.
Nature exploration: Jefferson Lake State Park provides opportunities for nature discovery. "There are some lovely hiking trails around the lake and spillway. But lately there has been no swimming because of blue green algae," reports Teri A.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully at Beaver Creek State Park based on your equipment. "Small park, only a few sites with hookups, but very nice. Rustic, with trails to the main park that take you through beautiful woods," advises Ken M.
Seasonal considerations: Mosquito Lake State Park facilities vary by season. "Unfortunately our campsite was under water due the extensive rains recently this past week and spring overall. But the staff at the camp office gave us a list of all of the open sites that we could choose from so that we could still camp, Which was nice," shares Samantha J.
Electric access: For those needing power, be aware of limitations. "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," notes Eddie about Jefferson Lake State Park, one of several horse campgrounds near Deerfield, Ohio.
