Campgrounds near Reynoldsburg, Ohio offer year-round options within 30 miles of the city. The area features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 800-1,100 feet, creating varied camping environments from riverside sites to wooded retreats. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F while spring and fall camping seasons experience temperature swings between 45-70°F, requiring adaptable gear.
What to do
Hiking along water trails: Scioto Grove Metro Park provides backpacking sites along the 5-mile REI water trail with tent pads and fire rings. "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit, besides that they're totally primitive," notes one camper.
Outdoor movie nights: A.W. Marion State Park Campground screens films at their outdoor theater during summer months. "Small adequate camp store. Movie for the kids at the outdoor theater," mentions a reviewer who enjoyed the evening entertainment options.
Creek exploration: Shallow creek access provides natural play areas at several campgrounds. "Beautiful creek that runs along side some nice deep sites! Two pools, tons of activities!" reports a visitor to Lazy River at Granville, where families often spend hours letting children wade and splash.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campers frequently mention site privacy as a top consideration. "...the two things that bring me back to this campground year after year. We have never had a 'bad' campsite at the Alum Creek State Park Campground. Each camping space is separated by trees and brush. And there is plenty of room!" writes one satisfied visitor.
Clean facilities: Tree Haven Campground receives high marks for maintenance. "This is a beautiful, clean campground and it's very peaceful here. They have a nice walking trail, potlucks, holiday events, live entertainment and are putting in a new, bigger pool!" reports a camper who has returned for five consecutive years.
Weekend theme events: Seasonal and holiday-themed camping weekends create memorable experiences. "We were there for the Halloween weekend and it was amazing. Can't wait to go back," shares a reviewer about Cross Creek Camping Resort, where scheduled activities enhance standard camping experiences.
What you should know
Bathroom variability: Facility quality varies dramatically between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were the most disgusting thing ever!! Their was actually a sign that said ecoli was found in one of the bathrooms," reports one camper at Jackson Lake Park, highlighting the importance of checking recent reviews.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Nov 1 - Apr 1, no water is available," notes Korbel Campgrounds at Ohio Expo Center, while Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA operates "Apr 1 to Oct 31," requiring winter campers to seek year-round alternatives.
Reservation requirements: Hocking Hills State Park Campground requires advance planning. "Reservations only, most sites are level and spacious. There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)," explains a visitor who appreciated the well-stocked store.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak visits: Weekday camping provides a quieter experience with better site availability. "It is busy on the weekend but was very quiet during the week. The sites are close, but not unreasonably close," observes a visitor to Cross Creek Camping Resort.
Indoor weather alternatives: Buckeye Lake-Columbus East KOA offers storm contingencies. During severe weather, "they let all the tent dwellers use the game room to relax in and ride out the worst of the storm," allowing families to maintain positive experiences despite challenging conditions.
Short-distance backpacking: For families wanting to try backpacking with minimal risk, Scioto Grove Metro Park offers ideal introductory terrain. "The backpacking site was a great site for new backpackers. It isn't too long but doing the full loop does let you know if your gear is working or going to be an issue," shares a parent who tested equipment there.
Tips from RVers
Hookup access challenges: At some campgrounds, hookup placement requires extra equipment. "The new section (sites numbers in the 200s) have hook ups at the front of the sites so you may have to buy longer hoses," advises a visitor to Lazy River at Granville.
Pet-friendly amenities: For pet owners seeking camping near Reynoldsburg with dogs, specific exercise areas enhance the experience. "A great dog park with lake entrance for the pups," highlights a reviewer at Alum Creek State Park Campground, mentioning one of several pet-friendly features at the park.
Site leveling preparedness: Several RVers note challenging terrain at certain campgrounds. "Our pull through site was on the (inner) road, so lots of golf carts, cars and campers passing by. All pull through sites are on the road side. The site is not level and our leveling system has the front wheels off the ground," reports a Cross Creek visitor, suggesting bringing additional leveling equipment.
