Campsites near Piqua, Ohio range from primitive Adirondack shelters to full-service RV parks with family activities. The region sits in western Ohio's Miami Valley with an average elevation of 860 feet and moderate seasonal temperatures. Many campgrounds position campers along waterways like Kiser Lake and Lake Loramie where motorized boats are restricted, creating quieter environments for paddlers and anglers.
What to do
Paddle on motor-free lakes: Kiser Lake State Park Campground offers a unique boating experience where motors aren't permitted. "The campground has no full hookups but does have electric. RV sites have a view of the lake. Sites are clean and paved... You can also rent canoes or paddle boats. No motors permitted on the lake," explains Aaliya B. The restriction creates a peaceful environment for kayakers and canoeists.
Play in natural water features: Poor Farmer's Campground provides natural water play areas for children. "A stream that runs through the campground is nice for the kids to play in when it's too hot for them on the playground. They usually have a lot of activities for the weekends planned," notes Vance M. This offers a natural alternative to swimming pools during hot summer days.
Hike backpacking trails: The St. Mary's Section - Buckeye Trail provides options for overnight hiking. "Built as an Eagle Scout project by Parker and Keaton Cole of Troop 95 (in Sidney), it is large enough for six or to sleep comfortably off the ground. You cannot miss it as you go along the trail," writes Jonathan W. This free Adirondack shelter sits approximately 10 miles into the trail, making it ideal for two-day backpacking trips.
What campers like
Lakefront campsites: At Kiser Lake State Park Campground, campers appreciate the waterfront views. "We camped on lot 57 and the view of the lake was awesome! The new bathhouse is open year round," shares Brad H. The park offers both electric sites with lake views and more secluded primitive sites.
Organized weekend activities: Buck Creek State Park Campground maintains a regular schedule of family events. "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," reports Melissa M. The park also provides convenient kayak launching areas near the camper beach.
Low light pollution: Poor Farmer's Campground offers stargazing opportunities due to its rural setting. "Clean family oriented and spacious. Well run facility w good restrooms and showers plus electri hook up per site. Out in farm country so very little light pollution overall," notes loud F. The campground's location away from urban centers creates ideal conditions for night sky observation.
What you should know
Site privacy varies greatly: Campground layouts differ significantly in terms of site separation. "The campground is like a giant RV lot. The sites are tiny. We were in a tent-only site and we had two families right on top of us on either side," warns Megan M. about Lake Loramie State Park Campground. For more privacy, request perimeter sites with tree coverage.
Seasonal bug activity: Insect populations can affect outdoor enjoyment during warmer months. "I think for us this park might be better in the fall. The bugs were really bad every time we were outside. There are several nice walking trails but the mosquitoes were so bad even in the day that we kept away," reports Andrea F. about Lake Loramie. Spring and summer campers should pack insect repellent.
Water quality concerns: Some parks monitor lake water conditions. "There were signs posted everywhere to use caution with the water because they were know to have blue green algae in the water so we had to keep the dogs away from it," notes Andrea F. Check with park offices about current water advisories, especially when bringing pets or planning swimming activities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated kid-friendly activities: Dayton KOA Holiday offers structured programming for children. "Great KOA! had lots of activities, great pizza, really nice showers and it's beautiful. there's a large pool and a creek. Don't rent the bikes, they were terrible plus there's too many hills," advises Stefanie C. The campground balances organized events with natural features for varied family experiences.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: John Bryan State Park Campground provides open play areas. "Kids run up and down green hills, ride bikes in their pajamas. Vault toliets are spacious with hand sanitizer by the doors," describes Karen K. The park's proximity to Yellow Springs town offers additional family-friendly options when camping weather isn't ideal.
Consider proximity to attractions: Buck Creek State Park offers both on-site activities and nearby points of interest. "We visited the Ohio Caverns. The tour is worth the money, the 'gem' mining was fun for our younger kids. There are two swimming beaches, the public one and one in the campground," shares Leon H. The park's location allows for day trips to regional attractions.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer limited utility options. "We are using a pull through and it is long enough for my RV and 24' trailer. There is a very nice cement slab with a nice fire pit and picnic table," reports phyllis E. about Dayton KOA. Call ahead to confirm specific site dimensions if traveling with larger rigs or multiple vehicles.
Consider seasonal bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies throughout the year. "The new shower house is open year round... There is a new shower house that's pretty nice, but the other bathrooms are pretty nasty," notes Aaliya B. about Kiser Lake State Park. Off-season campers should verify which facilities remain operational during their planned visit dates.
Verify campground accessibility: Some parks have lengthy entrance roads. "It was a bit of a drive back into the campground, probably 3 1/2 miles," mentions Lisa M. about Buck Creek State Park. RVers should factor in additional travel time and potential road conditions, especially after inclement weather.
