Indian Lake State Park Campground offers distinct camping environments based on your site selection. Some sites are in full sun with limited privacy, while others provide more seclusion and shade. The campground features both primitive tent sites and full hookup options for RVs. While the park sits near Indian Lake, the interior campground features remain accessible for visitors regardless of water levels or seasonal changes.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Indian Lake State Park provides dedicated fishing areas along with boat access for anglers. "This parks has a lot to offer if you like water sports. There is a camper beach area, swimming pool and boat launch within the campground," notes one visitor to Indian Lake State Park Campground.
Shooting sports: Located 45 miles southeast of Ridgeway, the Cardinal Center combines camping with extensive shooting facilities. "We then went over to the shooting center and tried our luck with some silhouet and metal targets on the pistol range. They also have trap and skeet available," reports a camper at Cardinal Center Campground.
Trail exploration: Buck Creek State Park offers accessible hiking paths suitable for beginners and families. "We had a great time. Lots of activities and trails," shares one visitor about their experience at Buck Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Delaware State Park receives consistent praise for its site layout and natural setting. "What I liked most about this park is that all the sites have privacy. There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground," reports one visitor to Delaware State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's facilities. "This is definitely a campground for families and for those who want lots of company in their experience. Lots of activities for kids and families and even movies and music on the weekend," notes a visitor to Indian Lake State Park.
Camping variety: The region supports multiple camping styles from tent sites to luxury glamping close to Ridgeway, Ohio. "We had a site in loop M. The bathrooms and showers were some of the least clean we have ever seen," shares one camper about their experience at Alum Creek State Park Campground, highlighting how experiences can vary across facilities.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: While some parks maintain modern facilities, others offer more rustic options. "My only complaint about Van Buren State Park is that there are no shower facilities," explains one regular visitor to Van Buren State Park Campground.
Site selection matters: Research your specific site before booking. "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," reports a camper about Indian Lake State Park.
Water quality concerns: Some lakes in the region have periodic water quality issues. "The entire lake stinks of pig poop. All the air smells like poo. You feel like you are breathing feces when you approach the water," warns one visitor about Grand Lake St. Marys State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Consider campground layout: Some parks feature family-friendly designs with playgrounds and recreational areas. "The kids had tons of fun exploring the woods connected to our site. We did not swim due to it being in the 60s and rainy during most of our stay," shares a visitor to Delaware State Park.
Off-peak visits: For a more secluded glamping experience near Ridgeway, Ohio, consider weekday or shoulder season visits. "We stayed during the week for one night. Campground was clean and quiet, had electric hookups at most sites," notes a visitor to Van Buren State Park.
Pool alternatives: When lake swimming is unavailable, look for parks with pools. "The camp store is really big and it's right next to their pool. They have a dog park, place to dock your boat and a small beach," mentions a visitor describing the amenities at Indian Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Check the specific site dimensions before booking. "Roomy sites, plenty of shade. Not a lot of privacy. There is a sand beach for swimming (even a separate doggy beach!) or a new in-ground pool. Primitive to full hook-up sites available," advises an RV camper at Indian Lake State Park.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some parks. "Some of the sites are small so you have to be careful which site you reserve if you're a tent camper. The outside of the circle is your best bet," recommends a camper at Van Buren State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Winter glamping close to Ridgeway, Ohio requires preparation. "We camped here off season and really enjoyed it. Our site was on a cul de sac and was close to the pool. The sites and road were gravel," shares an RVer who stayed at Cardinal Center Campground.
