Buck Creek State Park Campground sits on a reservoir near Springfield, Ohio, approximately 48 miles west of Sugar Grove. The park features a mix of wooded and open camping areas with both electric and non-electric sites. Many sites are level and grassy with partial shade from mature trees. Water temperatures at the reservoir typically range from 68-78°F during summer months.
What to do
Swimming at two beaches: Buck Creek State Park offers both a public swimming beach and a smaller campground beach. "There are two swimming beaches, the public one and one in the campground. The campground one is smaller a short hike to get to it," explains Leon H., who visited with family.
Fishing at multiple access points: Whitewater Memorial State Park provides excellent fishing opportunities with numerous lakeside spots. "Awesome fishing lake with tons of good spots to fish. We love spending our weekends here," notes Kimberly A., a regular visitor to the park.
Boating and paddling options: Indian Lake State Park features boat launches within the campground and water access for various watercraft. "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," according to Andrea F.
Hiking varied trails: The region offers trails for different skill levels. "There are several hiking trails and biking trails. Streams were dried up at our visit. A cool restoration covered bridge was a short hop from the campground," reports Dave V. about his experience at Hueston Woods State Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Grand Lake St. Marys State Park provides generous sites compared to many campgrounds. "The site is huge compared to what we normally stay in," explains amber F., who appreciated the extra room.
Clean, modern facilities: Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA receives praise for its well-maintained amenities. "This KOA sets the bar for the Ohio locations we have visited. The bathrooms are amazing and private. The tent site we had was huge," Brian B. shares about his experience.
Natural water features: Natural Springs Resort stands out for its unique spring-fed quarry. "Very nice and clean Campground. The lot we stayed in was a good size and was right on the spring," notes Michael D., highlighting the waterfront camping experience.
Kid-friendly amenities: Buck Creek State Park has features designed for younger campers. "Easy walk to fish or to campers beach... my sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes," mentions Buck B., a repeat visitor to the park.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: At Indian Lake State Park, not all sites have shade coverage. "Some had great shade and others didn't have any at all. The bathrooms were flush toilets and they did have shower houses too," advises Shannon G., noting the varied conditions.
Seasonal water conditions: Water quality at some lakes can vary by season. "The lake is notorious for having algae blooms that prohibit swimming," explains a visitor to Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, emphasizing the importance of checking conditions before planning water activities.
Campground layout differences: Hueston Woods State Park has distinct camping areas with varying amenities. "In the larger non-electric loop newer restrooms existed...modern bathrooms and showers were clean. In my tent area...antiquated wood shed pit latrines...that truly needed razed," reports Dave V.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds have more ambient noise than others. "Traffic noise is noticeable, especially during quiet hours. While not excessive, it's disruptive," observes Dave V. about his stay at Hueston Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Indian Lake State Park has features specifically for children. "There is a camper beach area, swimming pool and boat launch within the campground. The camp store is nice," shares Andrea F., listing family-friendly amenities.
Choose sites near activities: Buck Creek State Park offers sites close to recreational facilities. "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," suggests Jason M.
Check for organized activities: Seasonal events can enhance a family camping trip. "The campground has a family-oriented glamping experience with full hookups, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities," notes a visitor to Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, where special events occur throughout the year.
Consider tent-specific areas: Buck Creek's non-electric loop offers a quieter experience. "Over a late-August weekend, we found the non-electric loop to be pretty quiet and uncrowded. The grounds are level and grassy, with trees that provide partial shade," Amanda P. mentions.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At Buck Creek State Park, most sites require minimal leveling. "Our space was nice and level. Nice hiking trails in the area. Showers were very nice and clean. Several water spickets throughout the park if you needed to access them," reports Lisa M.
Hookup variations: Wapakoneta KOA provides full-service sites with some premium features. "Level gravel sites (no weeds popping up through gravel!) 2 Fenced dog areas, nice playground, game room...I was impressed when Mike helped me back into my site.. it had a little wooden deck with a picnic table," Lisa D. shares.
Campground access considerations: Buck Creek State Park has a longer entry road. "It was a bit of a drive back into the campground, probably 3 1/2 miles," notes Lisa M., helpful information for those planning arrival times with larger rigs.
Off-season benefits: For those interested in glamping in Sugar Grove, Ohio and surrounding areas, shoulder seasons offer advantages. "We camped here on a Tuesday in October so not very crowded. All in all a nice place to stay for the night and get a good shower," explains Mike & Deb L. about their October stay at Buck Creek.
