Van Buren State Park offers equestrian camping opportunities within 30 miles of Melmore, Ohio. The park sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level in the gently rolling terrain of northwest Ohio. Winter temperatures typically range from 15-35°F, while summer months average 65-85°F with moderate humidity levels, making spring and fall ideal for horse trail riding.
What to do
Cross-country skiing: Van Buren State Park trails accommodate winter sports with terrain suitable for beginners. "I came cross country skiing here in early January and it was absolutely amazing. It is cold but the terrain is simple for first time skiers," notes Kevin T. from Van Buren State Park Campground.
Tour a working farm: Just 35 miles from Melmore, Malabar Farm provides a unique agricultural experience. "Louis Bromfield was a conservationist and among many other things (including winning a Pulitzer) he was in the forefront of organic and self-sustaining gardening," explains Shelly S. who visited Malabar Farm State Park Campground.
Fishing and water recreation: Pleasant Hill Lake Park offers multiple water activities within an hour's drive of Melmore. "The lake is an all sport lake so there is fishing, tubing, jet skis and kayaking. The marina has boat rentals available," mentions Michelle H. who regularly camps there.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Delaware State Park provides natural habitats for various wildlife species. "What I liked most about this park is that there hunting areas," notes Michael P. about Delaware State Park Campground.
Playground access: Family-friendly facilities make camping with children easier. "The camp host was nice and friendly. Kids loved having the playground so close to the camper," says Scott F. about Van Buren State Park.
Seasonal activities: Various campgrounds offer different recreational options throughout the year. "The bridle trails at Van Buren State Park connect riders to multiple scenic routes through the wooded terrain," according to park information, while Pleasant Hill mentions that "lightning bugs even put on a nightly show," according to Andrea F.
What you should know
Varying toilet facilities: Many campgrounds in the region have pit toilets rather than flush toilets. "They were clean but I don't think I'd want to do more than a weekend there," shares Shannon G. about Van Buren State Park.
Site selection matters: Campsite characteristics vary significantly across the region. "Some of the sites are small so you have to be careful which you site you reserve if you're a tent camper," advises Brendan V.
Electric hookup reliability: At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, the quality of sites varies. "We have stayed mostly in area E and the new F side of the campground. The new F sites have concrete pads and plenty of space. Only lacking in mature trees to offer shade," explains Michelle H.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Consider sites near recreational facilities when camping with children. "It had a nice playground for kids and plenty of trails to hike or go horseback riding," notes Shannon G. about camping at Van Buren.
Educational opportunities: Ashland Fairgrounds provides affordable accommodation options within 45 minutes of Melmore. "Ashland fairgrounds has $20 tent sites or $35 full hookups. Very clean and quiet," according to Charles K.
Multiple activity options: Pleasant Hill Lake Park offers diverse recreation for different age groups. "Lots of activities: WhoaZone, boating, fishing, horseback riding, near Mohican Adventures for rafting, hiking," states Korinne K.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Prepare for potentially distant electrical connections. "You may need an extension cord. All back in sites," cautions Charles K. about Ashland Fairgrounds.
Campsite orientation: At Delaware State Park, the pod layout creates advantages for larger vehicles. "There are 212 sites that have 50 amp electric. The campground also has yurts for rent (May through October)," notes Nancy W.
Dump station location: Some equestrian campgrounds near Melmore require driving to separate areas for waste disposal. "Only criticism is you have to drive to another area of the park for an RV dump," mentions Nicole G. about her experience at Van Buren State Park.
