Kiser Lake State Park Campground offers a mix of electric and primitive campsites located 23 miles northeast of Troy. The park features a 396-acre no-motor lake popular for canoeing and kayaking. With 76 total campsites including 20 electric sites and 4 camper cabins, the campground provides varied accommodation options in an area known for moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Fishing at the lake: Kiser Lake State Park has excellent fishing opportunities with multiple access points around the shoreline. "The campground itself has 20 electric sites, 56 primitive sites and 4 camper cabins. All the electric sites are pull through and all sites have a fire pit but only the electric sites come with picnic tables," notes reviewer Andrea F.
Horseback riding trails: Whitewater Memorial State Park Campground offers an extensive network of bridle trails accessible directly from the Horsemen's Camp. "I came here and stayed in my tent (family had their horse trailer with camper) for a night during the chilly nights of October. I wish all campsites were like these - very, very spread out!" reports Brady R. The dedicated horse camping areas feature sites spaced widely apart to accommodate trailers and horses.
Water activities: Explore the lakes by kayak or canoe for a different perspective. "We love Kiser Lake, although there is only one spot for camping that we prefer. It is the only spot that it doesn't feel like you are right on top of your neighbors and actually has some tree coverage. As far as hiking goes, it's on the limited side, but we had a great time kayaking there. The lake was calm and everyone was very respectful of us in our kayaks," shares Mandi B.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Kiser Lake State Park Campground offers a peaceful setting especially appreciated by those seeking tranquility. "A hidden gem, super quiet, low traffic and decent fishing," notes Buck B. The no-motor policy on the lake contributes significantly to the serene environment.
Well-maintained trails: The horse campgrounds near Troy provide excellent trail conditions for riders of all experience levels. At Horsemen's Camp — Whitewater Memorial State Park, riders appreciate the direct access to trails from camping areas, with water access points strategically placed for horses.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds in the area offer organized events for children. "It's my favorite campground so far. I may be biased, with it being close to home, but they have a lot for the kids to do. Beach, volleyball net, playground. Plenty of water locations. I like that they have activities throughout the day for kids on the weekends," explains Andrew L. about Kiser Lake.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds and even within the same park. "The campground has no full hookups but does have electric. RV sites have a view of the lake. Sites are clean and paved. There is a new shower house that's pretty nice, but the other bathrooms are pretty nasty," reports Aaliya B. about Kiser Lake.
Seasonal considerations: Buck Creek State Park Campground can get crowded during holidays but remains manageable other times. "This park was pretty packed over Labor Day weekend, but it still felt like it wasn't super crowded. Our space was nice and level. Nice hiking trails in the area. Showers were very nice and clean," explains Lisa M.
Equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Troy feature specialized amenities for equestrians. Most provide electrical hookups, water access, and dedicated areas for horses. Proper manure disposal is required, and some areas restrict trail access during wet conditions to prevent damage.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: For family camping, location within the campground matters. "We camped on lot 57 and the view of the lake was awesome! The new bathhouse is open year round," shares Brad H. about Kiser Lake State Park, highlighting the importance of selecting waterfront sites when available.
Bring bikes: Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers excellent biking opportunities within the campground. "The campground was filled with parents and kids riding bikes, playing, and having fun. Nobody was out of control or obnoxious," observes Kim H., noting the family-friendly atmosphere.
Check activity schedules: Many parks offer organized weekend activities. "They do things with kids on many weekends. You can also rent canoes or paddle boats. No motors permitted on the lake," Aaliya B. mentions about Kiser Lake. These scheduled events provide entertainment without requiring additional planning.
Tips from RVers
Site selection important: Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks) offers unique camping experiences but requires careful site selection. "We picked the site further away from the lake as we had little ones. We were still close enough so we could easily walk to the lake. At this camp site you can see your neighbors more and it is easier to see the camp sites," explains Kenpocentaur K. about Possum Creek.
Water and dump facilities: Most campgrounds provide water fill stations and dump services even when full hookups aren't available. "Electric site only, full service all full. A bit rough getting RV setup, but pad is fairly level, so easily setup to use slides. Has water to fill tanks and Dumping Stations to empty as needed, so great semi-boondocking," reports Johnothan R. about Cowan Lake State Park.
Prepare for varying shade conditions: Tree coverage differs dramatically between sites and campgrounds. "Our campsite didn't have any trees but they have planted a lot of new trees. I assume this due the previous trees having to be cut down due to Emerald Ash borer damage. Our campsite didn't have any shade but others did so you really have to pick wisely," notes Kenpocentaur K.
