The Scioto Valley region surrounding Waverly, Ohio sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with varied terrain from rolling hills to river valleys. Seasonal temperature fluctuations impact campground availability, with several facilities operating only from April through October. Cell service varies throughout the area, particularly in more remote camping locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pike Lake State Park Campground offers multiple options for anglers. "The lake is smaller, but nice beach area and pedal boats are fun," shares Leon H., who stayed in a cabin at Pike Lake. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own gear.
Water activities: Family-oriented water recreation at Long's Retreat Family Resort includes swimming and water slides. "Plenty of things to do. Swimming, water slides, canoeing, go-cart racing, mini golf, and a full arcade give plenty of variety," notes Rocky B., who maintains a permanent site at Long's.
Hiking trails: Explore woodland paths at multiple locations. "We hiked the Greenbriar and CCC Trails. They are not too challenging but beautiful. Parts of the CCC trail were overgrown with briars and narrow," reports a Pike Lake visitor. Trail maintenance varies significantly between parks, with some requiring boots for muddy conditions.
What campers like
Natural settings: Scioto Trail State Park Campground receives praise for its secluded atmosphere. "Sites are just beautiful. They are all decent sizes and well shaded by very tall trees," according to Cassandra C., who noted the primitive campsites are quite dark at night, making for excellent stargazing.
Family activities: Parents appreciate structured recreation options. "We have been going here for the last 6 summers with a big group. Everyone always has such a great time and it is the highlight of all the kids summers," shares Kristi J. about Long's Retreat, adding that the lack of phone service helps families spend quality time together.
Proximity to attractions: Hocking Hills State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring regional highlights. "The campsites are accessible to all by car and offer an affordable way to spend the weekend in the caves. With miles and miles of hiking possibility this is not the place for a backpacking trip but rather a camp and day hike trip," notes Bryn S.
What you should know
Site conditions: Many campgrounds in the region have drainage issues during wet periods. At Pike Lake, "It rained quite a bit and many of the sites got flooded. The ground here doesn't drain well," reports Bob M. Similar concerns exist at other nearby parks.
Bathroom facilities: Expect variation in restroom quality across rv campgrounds near Waverly, Ohio. "There are outhouses with no running water but also a relatively new bath house with nice showers and toilets," explains an Elana C. about Hocking Hills State Park.
Reservation requirements: Hocking River RV Park and similar facilities fill quickly during peak seasons. Sites are limited, particularly for larger rigs. "Not many sites. Sites 26 and 27 are real small and private. Big enough for a pop up," notes Brad B.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation planning: Schedule water activities early in the day. "The kids can either swim up at the lake with multiple water slides and a huge floating dock with diving board, the little kids can have fun in the splash pad right at the beach," recommends a Long's Retreat visitor. Several parks limit swimming hours based on staffing.
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to play areas. "Site 57 - this site backs up to the ravine and is nice and large. It has a lot of shade and grass. We were able to run a line between trees for a dog run. Great neighbors on both sides but right across the site is the playground," notes Shannon G. about Lazy Village Campground & RV Park.
Technology expectations: Prepare for limited connectivity. "The best part is there is no phone service.....everyone has to actually spend time together and it's a great reset!" shares one camper about Long's Retreat. Many families bring board games and outdoor activities to compensate.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers report difficulties with uneven sites. "We stayed on site 67 next to the camp host. The camp site was nicely shaded with a small creek behind it. We had a lot of shade and didn't feel like we were on top of our neighbors. Not all the sites were as spacious as ours so be careful which one you choose," advises Shannon G. about Pike Lake.
Electric hookup variations: Different rv campgrounds around Waverly, Ohio offer various electrical options. At Walnut Creek Campground and Resort, visitors can access 30-amp service. "Great time! Has fishing, kayaking, golf cart trails, volleyball set up, basketball court, swimming pool and super nice cabins," reports Kelly W.
Water access points: Note that water filling locations may be limited. "The water is after you pull in so you have to pull in fill up and go back around to your spot," explains Joseph E. about Hocking River RV Park. Several campgrounds require similar maneuvering for water access.
