The Richwood, Ohio area offers several camping options across a network of state parks within a 45-mile radius. Located in Union County, this agricultural region sits at approximately 985 feet elevation with humid summer conditions and moderate rainfall averaging 39 inches annually. Camping in this area peaks between May and September when daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with cooler evenings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Alum Creek State Park Campground, both the main lake and campground areas offer varied fishing experiences. According to one camper, "There is a campground beach and boat launch. Lots of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area. A great dog park with lake entrance for the pups."
Paddling on motorless lakes: Kiser Lake State Park Campground prohibits motorized boats, creating a peaceful paddling environment. As one visitor notes, "This park is known for the lake that is kayak and canoe friendly since it doesn't allow any kind of boat with a motor. It also features a beach, 2 playgrounds and several hiking trails."
Trail exploration: Delaware State Park Campground features multiple interconnected trails suitable for day hikes. A camper mentions, "They have sites that are all grass, sites with grass and woods and sites that are all woods. Whether you have an RV, tent, or looking to hammock camp, they can help you out."
Historic farm tours: The working farm at Malabar Farm State Park Campground offers a unique agricultural experience. A visitor shared, "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. This place is amazing!"
What campers like
Pod-style campground layouts: Delaware State Park Campground features a wheel-and-spoke design that maximizes privacy. According to a reviewer, "The 'pod' layout of the campground made for large campsites (some sites are over 90 feet in length and well suited for large RVs) with good separation between sites."
Privacy between sites: Alum Creek State Park Campground offers natural separation between camping areas. A camper notes, "The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush. Beautiful walking trails. There's also a great mountain biking trail in the vicinity."
Lake access from sites: Some campgrounds offer direct water views or access. At Kiser Lake, one camper reported, "I had spot 66 (non-electric standard) and I just had my tent and my car and I would definitely pick that spot again! It was absolutely stunning over looking the water with the trees turning colors."
Clean facilities: Campground bathhouses receive regular maintenance at several parks. A Delaware State Park visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground," while another noted the presence of "centrally located bath/shower houses with coin-operated laundry facilities."
What you should know
Equestrian access limitations: While searching for horse campgrounds near Richwood, Ohio, riders should note that none of the state parks in the immediate vicinity offer dedicated equestrian camping facilities with corrals. Contact parks directly about trail riding access restrictions.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campsites experience water issues during wet periods. At Alum Creek State Park, a visitor advised, "Sites are nice with some sites able to boat up to them. Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between providers. At Delaware State Park, a camper reported, "Located near the town of Delaware, you aren't too far off the beaten path and we even had decent service with Verizon," while another noted, "Att works good here verizion not so much but at night when people are sleeping verizion gets a little better."
Weather preparedness: Storms can develop quickly in this region. Delaware State Park provides "a nice storm shelter on the property that was well marked and easy to get to from any of the campground areas."
Tips for camping with families
Weekend activities: Buck Creek State Park Campground organizes regular events for children. One camper shared, "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."
Spacious play areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated recreational spaces. A Delaware visitor noted, "Great space for the kids to get it and play," while another mentioned, "My daughter had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site."
Beach access: Multiple parks feature swimming areas specifically for campers. At Buck Creek, "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."
Educational opportunities: Malabar Farm offers learning experiences through its working farm. A visitor suggested it "would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!" noting that "your teenager will roll their eyes at you but probably secretly enjoy the visit."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Kiser Lake State Park Campground has varying site conditions. According to reviews, "The campground has no full hookups but does have electric. RV sites have a view of the lake. Sites are clean and paved."
Large rig accommodation: Some parks can handle substantial RVs. At Delaware State Park, "There are 212 sites that have 50 amp electric. Roads and campsites are paved with grassy patios that feature picnic tables and fire pits."
Dump station locations: Not all parks offer on-site sewer connections. At Delaware, "There is no sewer or water at individual sites but there is a dump station and water fill station near the park entrance."
Site reservation strategies: Popular lakefront spots often book far in advance. At Alum Creek, "most sites are booked by seasonal campers who pay for the whole season and leave their RV/set-ups in one place the whole season, so all the choice sites (ie lakefront) are always taken."
