Campgrounds near Ridgeway, Ohio offer diverse accommodations throughout the year, with several sites operating beyond the typical May-October season. Indian Lake State Park Campground maintains year-round availability, while private campgrounds like Zane Shawnee Caverns & Southwind Park remain open through winter months. The terrain varies from open lakefront settings to wooded plots with elevation changes, creating different camping experiences based on location and season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Indian Lake State Park Campground, water activities dominate recreational options. A camper noted, "There is a camper beach area, swimming pool and boat launch within the campground." The park features multiple fishing areas with good shoreline access points.
Hiking trails: The trail system at Delaware State Park Campground offers various interconnected paths. According to a visitor, "Many of the trails link together so you can decide how long you want to hike. The Lakeview Trail was perfect for us as our dog loved jumping in the water during our hike."
Cave exploration: Unique geological features provide unusual camping experiences. At Zane Shawnee Caverns & Southwind Park, visitors can explore underground formations when the caves are open, though one reviewer noted, "The restaurant/cafe, stage, and cave were closed while we were there," suggesting seasonal operation.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Site dimensions receive consistent praise at many locations. A camper at Back 40 Campground mentioned, "The sites are large. Most have water and electricity. Nice amenities like a clubhouse with pool tables, clean flush toilets and shower areas, a nice small lake for swimming."
Lake access: Water proximity enhances camping experiences for many visitors. One camper at Alum Creek State Park Campground observed, "We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must."
Wooded privacy: Tree coverage creates natural separation between sites at some campgrounds. A Delaware State Park visitor shared, "The best thing about this campground is the fact that all the sites have privacy. There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Heavy rainfall significantly affects camping conditions. At Welcome Woods RV Campgrounds, flooding can occur after storms, with one camper reporting, "When we first arrived to the campground we originally were a little nervous but learned looks can be deceiving."
Varying bathroom facilities: Restroom quality differs dramatically between campgrounds. One visitor at Ohio State Eagles Family Recreation Park appreciated that the staff are "extremely helpful with anything you need and they go the extra mile even if all you need is to dump your tanks."
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities close during winter months. A camper at Resting Roost noted practical challenges: "Near Belle Center. PROS- was relatively cheap, $24, out in the middle of fields so pretty quiet, host seems pretty nice. CONS- had to back up a 100 yard driveway, lots of bugs."
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled events for children. A visitor to Back 40 reported, "Plenty of activities right on property including fishing with awesomely stocked ponds, a great playground, huge open field for baseball, soccer or anything activity you can dream up and a lodge with activities including pool, foosball and crafts."
Beach access: Swimming areas provide recreation for children. At Indian Lake, a camper shared, "Indian Lake State Park is my close to home camping get away. Right on Indian lake, you can enjoy the beach, boating, swimming, fishing and relaxing. Last year, the state park added a nice inground swimming pool."
Playground options: Play areas give children space to burn energy. A Delaware State Park visitor mentioned, "This is probably our favourite state park we have been to thus far. We went camping early October in tents. It was cold but it was so much fun."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: RVers should note varying sewage disposal options. At Love's RV Hookup in Bellefontaine, a visitor reported, "A little loud at times. Hardee's restaurant is a different option for meals," highlighting the tradeoff between convenience and noise at this roadside option.
Utility hookups: Electric service varies between campgrounds. Alum Creek offers "several full hook up sites" while many others provide electric-only connections. A visitor noted, "From what I've been told you might be able to get into one [lakefront site] if you book the whole season a year in advance."
Pad conditions: Surface quality affects RV setup and stability. At Indian Lake, "Our pad was not level front to back so we had to adjust a little bit. The fire ring was nice but our picnic table was beat up."
