Buck Creek State Park provides several camping options within 25 miles east of Troy. The park encompasses a 2,120-acre reservoir with 1,896 acres of surrounding woodlands. Temperatures range from summer highs near 85°F to winter lows around 20°F, with the camping season extending from March through late October for most facilities. Tent sites in non-electric areas offer more seclusion and shade than RV sections.
What to do
Hiking trails and biking: Buck Creek State Park features multiple trail options for various skill levels. "We camped here in our camper in early July 2017. There are a lot of things to do in the area. We visited the Ohio Caverns. The tour is worth the money, the 'gem' mining was fun for our younger kids," explains Leon H. from Buck Creek State Park Campground.
Kayaking and paddling: The reservoir at Grand Lake St. Marys provides excellent water activities with boat docks and rentals. "This parks has a lot to offer if you like water sports. There is a camper beach area, swimming pool and boat launch within the campground," notes Andrea F. about the lake access at Indian Lake State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer both pool and natural swimming areas. "A nice 'weekender' type of campground. The sites are clean and level for the most part. The reservoir provides ample opportunity for swimming, fishing and there is great space to fly a kite if that's in your book or tricks," mentions Jason M.
What campers like
Shaded camping areas: Many campers appreciate the wooded sections at certain campgrounds. "I was looking for a backcountry camping site that would give me some privacy and make it feel as though I was deep in the woods. Buckcreek had great hammock camping spots and was just what we were looking for, especially considering we scoured several other campgrounds and most of them didn't have trees at the spots," shares Mandi B.
Clean facilities: Wildcat Woods Campgrounds receives praise for its maintenance. "They have the nicest cleanest camp bathrooms/shower house I've ever seen. Fishing, pond swimming, trails," says Kelly in her review of this smaller campground option near Troy.
Well-organized activities: Many parks offer structured entertainment. "Had a 4 day 3 night long weekend. Camp host on I think lot 71 or there about were great at keeping the activities going. Every night there was a movie and you could buy root beer floats for $1!! And the kids loved it," mentions Melissa M. about her holiday weekend experience.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Water quality varies significantly throughout the year. About Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, Amber R. notes, "friendly staff, very clean restrooms, playground, could not swim in the water due to contamination which they have spent millions to repair and is slowly on the up and up."
Site selection matters: Campgrounds often have varied site quality. "You will enjoy your stay and the staff is wonderful," says James J. about Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA, while Joel R. cautions, "The site we were given wasn't level, and it took a bit of maneuvering to get level."
Bathroom facilities vary: Some parks maintain excellent facilities while others need updates. "Over a late-August weekend, we found the non-electric loop to be pretty quiet and uncrowded. The grounds are level and grassy, with trees that provide partial shade. Restrooms are clean enough, and there are showers with nice warm water," explains Amanda P.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. "We love Hueston Woods! We have been there twice now and tent camp. A lot of the sites are large and have enough space for everything you need! The beach is a short distance away," recommends Maddy B. from Hueston Woods State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds program specifically for children. "Indian Lake State Park is my close to home camping get away. Right on Indian lake, you can enjoy the beach, boating, swimming, fishing and relaxing. Last year, the state park added a nice inground swimming pool," shares Angie B.
Safety considerations: Evaluate campsite layout for family needs. "The sites are large with plenty of room for everything you need! The beach is a short distance away and love that they also include a dog swimming area," notes a visitor about pet-friendly amenities.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Many sites accommodate larger vehicles with easy access. At Wapakoneta KOA, Ryan W. mentions, "Stayed 2 nights here. Had a back-in, water/electric spot that was roomy as we were on an end. Wood deck, picnic table, and fire ring included."
Hookup options: Check specific utility availability when booking. "Electric site only, full service all full. A bit rough getting RV setup, but pad is fairly level, so easily setup to use slides. Site 60, 46 feet max length, ours 39," reports Johnothan R. from Cowan Lake State Park Campground.
Internet considerations: Signal strength varies significantly. "Internet here on t-moble 5G home is 90Mbps down and 6 to 20Mbps up. Verizon on cellphone, only 10Mbs down, 1-3Mbps up. ATT cellphones are similar to Verizon. Great enough for work or play," adds Johnothan about his connectivity experience.
