Campgrounds near Alum Creek Lake, Ohio, include diverse options that accommodate both short-term stays and extended visits. Most facilities remain operational from May through mid-October, with some closing earlier depending on weather conditions. Campsites within this region often feature varying levels of tree cover, which provides natural shade during summer months when daytime temperatures typically reach 80-85°F.
What to do
Kayaking on lake waters: At Kokosing River Campground, visitors can paddle on the peaceful wildlife area lake. "Kayaking on the lake is great. Camp staff very friendly and helpful," notes Mark B., who visited during a holiday weekend.
Biking accessible trails: River Trail Crossing offers direct access to the paved B&O trail from the campground. "Bike trail access right from the campground," shares Bob M., who enjoyed this amenity during a 4-night riverfront stay.
Mini golf and outdoor games: Tomorrow's Stars RV Resort provides family recreation options including putt-putt golf. Buck B. describes it as a "fun location just off the highway. Perfect for a family, has swimming pool, putt putt, and other child friendly activities."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide fishing access, with Kokosing River Campground offering lake fishing and Tomorrow's Stars featuring a small fishing pond. Campgrounds closest to Alum Creek Lake provide access to the reservoir's 3,387-acre fishing area.
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: Sunbury/Columbus North KOA Holiday receives praise for its amenities. "Bathroom's nice. Even have hand dryers in most of them. And baby changers," writes Gary G., who also appreciated the "very new machines" in the laundry facility.
Shaded, level camping spots: Kokosing River Campground offers "nice, small, shaded, well maintained" sites according to Shelly S., who noted, "beautiful lake, nice and quiet. Lots of waterfowl."
Activities for children: The KOA in Sunbury provides extensive recreation options. Jennifer K. shares, "Kids aged 3-13 all had a blast in the heated pool, on the jump pad and on the zip line swing!" during a themed weekend stay.
Well-maintained grounds: Cross Creek Camping Resort impresses campers with its upkeep. Catherine mentions, "the grounds and facilities are clean and well-kept. The pool is really nice. They also have a playground for the kids."
What you should know
Site spacing varies by campground: While the KOA Holiday offers spacious sites, other facilities have tighter arrangements. At Cross Creek, Brenda M. notes, "the narrow sites are close with no privacy. Our pull through site was on the (inner) road, so lots of golf carts, cars and campers passing by."
Seasonal operation schedules: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October or November. Sunset Springs RV Resort runs from "May 1 to October 15," while River Trail Crossing operates from "May 1 to October 16."
Cell service and connectivity: Internet access varies by location. Gary G. reported about the KOA: "Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5G) seems good throughout the entire park. Best Wi-Fi I've ever had at a campground. They have Wi-Fi repeater towers everywhere you look."
Weekday versus weekend experiences: Alton RV Park and other facilities near Alum Creek Lake can differ dramatically between weekdays and weekends. Cross Creek "is busy on the weekend but was very quiet during the week," according to Dave B.
Tips for camping with families
Consider themed weekends: Several campgrounds host special event weekends. Lauri C. recalls Cross Creek: "We were there for the Halloween weekend and it was amazing."
Look for multiple recreation options: The KOA offers diverse activities in one location. Nichole G. describes it as a "Great, family friendly campground. Clean, organized campground, with TONS of amenities and activities."
Prioritize water access for hot days: Lakeview RV Park provides swimming opportunities during summer. Robin R. mentions, "Small swimming lake! Canoe rental and jet pack 'skiing'" among the available water activities.
Scout campground layouts: At Cross Creek, Catherine advises families to understand the environment: "It's an RV resort, so sites are right next to each other, but the grounds and facilities are clean and well-kept."
Tips from RVers
Check for leveling requirements: Some rv sites near Alum Creek Lake need additional equipment. At Cross Creek, Brenda M. notes, "The site is not level and our leveling system has the front wheels off the ground."
Consider utility placement: For extended stays at RV hookup sites, placement of hookups impacts comfort. Dave B. at Cross Creek describes, "Good mix of pull through and back in and is big rig friendly."
Look for nearby supply options: When selecting camping spots near Alum Creek Lake, nearby shopping can be crucial. Morgan F. values Alton RV Park for its "convenient location" in a "safe neighborhood with a kroger right down the street."
Research site dimensions before booking: RVers with larger vehicles should verify site sizes. Bonnie L. at Tomorrow's Stars shares, "Pull through we were assigned had very low hanging tree limbs. I called the office and asked if we could use space 41 instead."
