Van Buren State Park offers separate equestrian camping areas with specific amenities for horse owners. The park features two distinct camping loops situated on flat terrain with ample shade coverage. Electric sites accommodate both tent and RV campers throughout the property. The campground maintains pit toilets rather than flush facilities, with no shower amenities available on-site.
What to do
Trail riding and hiking: Van Buren State Park provides extensive trail systems for both riders and hikers. "I love getting out of town and visiting Van Buren State Park, and I have lots of good memories. It gets 4 stars because I now live in Montana and Montana camping outshines Ohio, but I can't bash on Van Buren State Park at all," writes Lindsay B.
Water recreation: Delaware State Park offers multiple water activities with boat rentals available at the marina. "The northern portion of the lake is a 'no wake zone' which makes for a more pleasant paddling environment. If you don't have a boat, boat rentals are available at the marina," notes Nancy W.
Winter activities: Equestrian campgrounds near Upper Sandusky, Ohio transform during winter months. "I came cross country skiing here in early January and it was absolutely amazing. It is cold but the terrain is simple for first time skiers," writes Kevin T. about Van Buren State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Alum Creek State Park offers secluded camping spots. "The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush. Beautiful walking trails," explains Catherine.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms at horse-friendly campgrounds. "The bathrooms and restrooms are the best I've seen at a campground," states Maddy B. about Delaware State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Pleasant Hill Lake Park provides natural encounters close to camp. "The lightning bugs even put on a nightly show," mentions Andrea F., highlighting the park's natural setting.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. "We stayed during the week for one night. Campground was clean and quiet, had electric hookups at most sites. Host was very friendly," notes Nicole G. about Van Buren State Park.
Limited amenities at some parks: Facilities vary between campgrounds. "Not your typical going hiking kinda campground (there are trails but they are not 'major') you come here to step away from city life and tour a working farm. Ohio countryside at its best," explains Shelly S. about Malabar Farm State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts campground conditions. "Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," warns Katelyn P. about Alum Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Find sites near recreational facilities. "Kids loved having the playground so close to the camper," shares Scott F. about Van Buren State Park, where children can easily access play areas.
Beach options: Delaware State Park offers swimming areas for kids. "We did not swim due to it being in the 60s and rainy during most of our stay but we did go look at the beach it was very clean and appears well cared for," writes Ashley R.
Safety features: Some parks provide emergency shelters. "I also noticed that they had a nice storm shelter on the property that was well marked and easy to get to from any of the campground areas," notes Marshall P. about Delaware State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Check available connections before booking. "There are 212 sites that have 50 amp electric. The campground also has yurts for rent (May through October) that are furnished with beds, table and chairs, a cooler, ceiling fan, outdoor charcoal grill and a picnic table with canopy," advises Nancy W.
Site recommendations: At Pleasant Hill, "We stayed mostly in area E and the new F side of the campground. The new F sites have concrete pads and plenty of space. Only lacking in mature trees to offer shade," explains Michelle H.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. "Only criticism is you have to drive to another area of the park for an RV dump," cautions Nicole G. about Van Buren State Park's facilities.
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