Indian Lake State Park Campground sits near Ridgeway, Ohio at an elevation of about 1,000 feet with a continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. The region around Indian Lake offers camping across several recreational areas, with many sites suitable for those traveling with pets. Local campgrounds typically operate from April through October with seasonal variations in facilities and activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Indian Lake State Park Campground provides access to multiple fishing spots where pets can join their owners. Shannon G. notes, "There are a ton of sites. Some had great shade and others didn't have any at all... They have a dog park, place to dock your boat and a small beach."
Swimming options: Alum Creek State Park Campground features multiple swimming areas for families and pets. Jenny C. shares, "We had an absolute blast at the campsite! We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must."
Hiking with dogs: Buck Creek State Park Campground offers pet-friendly trails with variable terrain. Leon H. mentions, "There are a lot of things to do in the area. We visited the Ohio Caverns. The tour is worth the money, the 'gem' mining was fun for our younger kids."
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds host special weekend activities for campers with pets. Ashley R. observed at Welcome Woods RV Campgrounds: "We camped Labor Day weekend so I don't know if it's all the time or not but while we were there they did a hog roast corn hole tournaments and some kind of 50/50 raffle every day."
What campers like
Quiet environment: Back 40 Campground maintains consistent quiet hours for all guests. John L. confirms this with his short but telling review: "The gates lock at 10pm."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate clean, functional amenities when traveling with pets. At Buck Creek, Melissa M. observed, "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!!"
Dog-specific amenities: Several campgrounds offer designated pet areas. Jill B. highlights Alum Creek's pet amenities: "There is a campground beach and boat launch. Lost of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area. A great dog park with lake entrance for the pups."
Spacious sites: Pet owners value room between campsites. Tiffani C. praises Back 40: "Each site has site PLENTY of space between you and your neighbor and backs up to beautiful woods. Picnic table and fire ring included along with a concrete patio."
What you should know
Bugs and pests: Depending on season, insects can be troublesome for pets. At Resting Roost, Lisa M. warns, "Near Belle Center. PROS- was relatively cheap, $24, out in the middle of fields so pretty quiet... CONS- had to back up a 100 yard driveway, lots of bugs, smells as they just fertilized the fields."
Site variations: Campsite quality and layout vary significantly across campgrounds. Catherine notes about Alum Creek: "The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush... most sites are booked by seasonal campers who pay for the whole season."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities range widely in cleanliness and convenience. Ashley R. describes Welcome Woods: "The bathrooms come in two varieties. One is a outhouse type room... and the other is a porta potty... there's a pretty strong odor."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds near Ridgeway operate seasonally. Love's RV Hookup in Bellefontaine provides year-round options but with limitations. Brad H. notes, "A little loud at times. Hardee's restaurant is a different option for meals."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Buck Creek State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. Jason M. explains, "A nice 'weekender' type of campground. The sites are clean and level for the most part. I recommend taking one on the outside of the loop - near the trees."
Beach selection: Choose campgrounds with separate swimming areas for children and pets. Jamie L. highlights Indian Lake's options: "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."
Recreational options: Buck B. recommends Buck Creek for family activities: "One of my favorites in this area, great rv spots and even better tent/non electric spots... my sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes."
Event participation: Seasonal campers often welcome families with pets. Ashley notes about Welcome Woods: "Many people stopped and made sure to invite us to the common area where the festivities were going on."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Ohio State Eagles Family Recreation Park offers full hookups for RV campers with pets. James W. praises the management: "Great people who are not in your business every time you turn around. Extremely helpful with anything you need."
Site levelness: RV campers should check site conditions before booking. Shannon G. mentions about 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."
Seasonal restrictions: Most RV-friendly campgrounds near Ridgeway close during winter months. Bret J. recommends Back 40: "This is a great campground. The sites are large. Most have water and electricity. Nice admenities like a clubhouse with pool tables, clean flush toilets and shower areas."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups at sites. Chase H. notes about Zane Shawnee Caverns: "Our site had water but no sewage - the dump site was located a few hundred feet away at the bathroom. Roads are gravel and were pretty bumpy in some areas."
