Campgrounds near Ostrander, Ohio sit within the glaciated plains of central Ohio, where elevations range from 900-950 feet above sea level. The region features rolling hills, wooded areas, and several reservoirs created by damming local waterways. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more comfortable 60-70°F daytime temperatures with cooler evenings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Buck Creek State Park Campground offers access to a reservoir where anglers can catch multiple fish species. "We had a good time fishing. There is a campground beach and boat launch. Lots of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area," notes a visitor at Alum Creek State Park Campground.
Trail hiking: Multiple trail systems connect campground areas to natural features. "There is a nice walking trail, potlucks, holiday events, live entertainment and are putting in a new, bigger pool! They also redid the driveway," reports a camper at Tree Haven Campground.
Water recreation: Beaches and swimming areas provide summer cooling options. A camper at Buck Creek mentions, "There are two swimming beaches, the public one and one in the campground. The campground one is smaller a short hike to get to it."
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds feature disc golf among their recreational options. "Hiking trails, disc golf course and there are spots for the kids to play," notes a visitor to Mt. Gilead State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at certain campgrounds. "The sites are large but can be damp if it's rained," notes one visitor. At Delaware State Park Campground, campers find "sites that are all grass, sites with grass and woods and sites that are all woods."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high among camper priorities. "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," shares a family that visited Delaware State Park.
Fishing access: Stocked ponds and lake shorelines provide fishing opportunities. "Berkshire Campgrounds has it all. Full hookups and great activities for all. There is a small lake that you can walk around. They also have a path through the woods where you can let the dogs run if you choose to," according to one reviewer.
Pool facilities: Several campgrounds maintain swimming pools for guest use. A camper at Cardinal Center Campground mentioned, "They have a nice indoor pool and shower rooms attached."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Rain can affect site conditions at many campgrounds in this area. A camper at Cross Creek Camping Resort observed, "Our site needed maintenance but overall, it was a good week."
Site types vary: Facilities range from basic to full-service. "Nice medium size campground. Camp spots were decently sized but no cover between camp spots and little shade," notes a Buck Creek visitor about tent sites.
Booking requirements: Most campgrounds require advance reservations, especially on weekends. "Must reserve online as they are still doing everything virtual," reports a recent Buck Creek camper.
Seasonal variations: Many campgrounds have different operating hours by season. A Cardinal Center visitor mentioned, "We camped here off season and really enjoyed it. Our site was on a cul de sac and was close to the pool."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children should consider sites near play areas. "We 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," shares a Buck Creek State Park Campground visitor.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds offer organized weekend activities. "We were there for the Halloween weekend and it was amazing," reports a Cross Creek visitor, where themed weekends create additional entertainment.
Site selection for children: Choose sites that offer exploration opportunities. "The site we were on was set back in the woods. My daughter had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site," notes a Delaware State Park visitor.
Swimming options: Campground swimming facilities vary from basic to elaborate. "We had an absolute blast at the campsite! We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must," reports an Alum Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers should note site conditions for leveling needs. "Gravel pads, our site was off 2 inches. Water pressure excellent. Electric well within standard," reports a Berkshire Campgrounds visitor.
Hookup availability: Utilities vary across camping sites near Ostrander, Ohio. "There are 212 sites that have 50 amp electric. The campground also has yurts for rent (May through October)," mentions a Delaware State Park visitor.
Layout considerations: RV size compatibility varies by campground. "We had a good site in loop M," notes an Alum Creek visitor, while another at Cardinal Center Campground mentioned, "This is a very nice, easy access CG with wide, spacious, and level pull through and back-in gravel sites."
Seasonal RV options: Some campgrounds offer longer-term stays. "We spent a month out there in a fifth wheel to see if we like the lifestyle," shares a Tree Haven visitor, indicating extended-stay options for RVers.
