RV camping near Rockbridge, Ohio provides access to the Hocking Hills region where elevation changes range from 660 to 1,300 feet, creating diverse microclimates within short distances. The area receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually, which contributes to the lush vegetation and numerous water features. Many campgrounds experience high occupancy from May through October with fall being the most challenging period to secure reservations.
What to do
Riverside recreation: At Hocking River RV Park, campers can enjoy proximity to river activities. As Aysia C. notes, "This small and cost effective campground is so awesome! The river is small and is perfect to have a fire right next to. We also just went up the highway a little to a rafting rental place called murrys landing to raft down the river."
Swimming and games: Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds offers numerous activity options beyond just camping. Mitchell C. shares, "There is a nice sized sand ground play set with swings and 2 slides, an air pillow (blob) putt putt, a trail to the lake, a dog run, poop pickup stations, an A/C'd game room and very pleasant staff."
Hiking access: The proximity to trails makes Hocking Hills State Park Campground popular despite crowded sites. Elana C. explains, "The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave. We enjoyed swimming in the pool."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained shower houses. At Palmerosa Horse & Hike Campground, recent renovations have made a significant difference. According to Chad B., "The new shower house at the office is great! You have your own shower, toilet and vanity in a locked room!"
Peaceful settings: Campers frequently mention the tranquil atmosphere. Shianne G. describes Hocking River RV Park as "Beautiful, and peaceful! Perfect right on the river... decent shower houses... peaceful little campground."
Spacious sites: Site layout and privacy are important to visitors. Victor R. notes that Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds features "Super spacious sites and very peaceful. This is a top-notch camping resort."
Family-friendly amenities: The range of activities for children is frequently highlighted. Tiffani C. reports that Hilltop Resorts has "Plenty of things to do including: jump pad, mini golf, basketball, hiking, fishing and kayaking. Our 5 year old had a blast!"
What you should know
Site limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on activities or challenging site conditions. At Hocking River RV Park, Joseph E. notes, "It's an ok campground, if your taking kids there is nothing at the campground to do. Fishing is ok but the banks of the river are high."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Alton RV Park, Kendra P. mentions, "New showers and bathrooms, new laundromat, new and improved process to get to your spot, and very safe."
Rule enforcement: Management styles differ significantly. Dennis D. cautions about Alton RV Park: "They yell at you for everything. We had our portable grill out and they told us we couldn't use it because it might ruin their grass."
Walk-in considerations: Some sites require significant hiking with gear. Kate W. advises about Hocking Hills State Park: "Pay attention to 'walk-in' sites. It's more like 'hike a half mile with your gear' sites! The rangers and naturalists have many activities going on and are very knowledgeable."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: When traveling with children, campgrounds with amenities are worth the extra cost. Mark from Hilltop Resorts writes, "We stayed here for 3 nights and it's our family of 5 in late October. The kids especially loved the bouncy 'pillow' by the main lodge."
Bathroom proximity: With young children, consider campsite location relative to facilities. Jenny K. notes about Hocking Hills State Park, "The campsites are so close together, which you think would at least mean the bathrooms were close, but no, they were a serious hike. Not good with kids."
Pool access: Swimming options provide entertainment during hot summer months. Elana C. mentions that at Hocking Hills State Park, "We enjoyed swimming in the pool. There's outhouses with no running water but also a relatively new bath house with nice showers and toilets."
Tips from RVers
Site maneuvering: Large rigs may face challenges at some campgrounds. For Hocking River RV Park, Tamara W. advises, "pull through spots require a little bit of maneuvering with big rig (43' fifth wheel). There was some mud where camper wheels were situated in the spot (needs material)."
Hookup options: Lakeview RV Park offers convenient pull-through sites with full hookups. Bucky W. notes, "Staff is very friendly and we got a nice pull through site for a quick stop over my way to upper Michigan. There's a really nice pond and has water activities if you stay longer."
Seasonal considerations: Many RV campgrounds near Rockbridge have limited operating seasons. Bill V. reports that Hocking River RV Park offers "Electric hookup only. Shower and restroom facility provided very clean and orderly campsite also very clean" but operates only April through October.
Supply access: For longer stays, proximity to stores matters. Morgan F. points out that Alton RV Park has a "Safe neighborhood with a kroger right down the street," making it convenient for restocking supplies.
