Buck Creek State Park offers tent, RV, and yurt camping near Vandalia, Ohio in Clark County. The park sits at an elevation of 1,020 feet with proximity to the 2,120-acre C.J. Brown Reservoir. Weather patterns include warm summers with July temperatures averaging 85°F and cold winters with January lows around 20°F. Most campground roads are asphalt with gravel or paved camping pads.
What to do
Water activities on multiple lakes: At Buck Creek State Park Campground, the C.J. Brown Reservoir provides various water recreation options. According to Buck B., it's "One of my favorites in this area... easy walk to fish or to campers beach... my sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes." The park has both a public beach and a smaller one within the campground.
Explore nearby attractions: The Hueston Woods State Park Campground region offers diverse activities beyond camping. Megan D. notes, "It has lake activities, hiking, biking, fishing. Camping can be in tents or various cabins or even in the lodge. Lodge has a restaurant - food was good. There was also a pool within the lodge." The park also conducts planned activities and guided hikes.
Full moon paddling: Seasonal camping in Vandalia provides unique nighttime experiences. At Cowan Lake State Park Campground, one visitor shared a special experience: "A friend and I were able to kayak on the lake the night of a Friday the 13th moon. It was beautiful." The park offers kayak access points at its boat ramp area, with some tent sites positioned with lake views.
What campers like
Modern bathrooms: Campers frequently mention bathroom facilities when reviewing their stays. At Cowan Lake State Park, a visitor reported, "The restrooms were decent. They weren't new; however, they were very clean." Winterized yurt camping near Vandalia provides heated bathhouse access during colder months at select parks.
Spacious sites: Site size and layout make a significant difference in camping comfort. At Frontier Campground, which specializes in monthly stays, a long-term RVer shared, "My husband and I have lived and traveled in our RV for about 16 years and Frontier Campground is by far the most peaceful, quiet place we have stayed over the years. Because they only allow monthly reservations, it keeps the traffic to a minimum and creates more of a community atmosphere."
Clean facilities: Stonelick State Park maintains well-kept restrooms throughout its camping areas. A camper noted, "Bath house is clean and modern. There is potable water in multiple sites and a double sided dump station. The staff and the host are very pleasant and helpful." The park's camping season runs from April 1 through October 31.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Most state parks require advance reservations, especially for yurt camping in the Vandalia area. At Winton Woods Campground, "The online reservation system is easy to use and gives you an array of sites/cabins to choose from. Be aware that lots of people use this park on the weekends so it can get quiet busy."
Tree coverage differs: Many parks have experienced tree removal due to emerald ash borer damage. At Cowan Lake State Park, a camper observed, "Our campsite didn't have any trees but they have planted a lot of new trees. I assume this due the previous trees having to be cut down due to Emerald Ash borer damage."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, particularly at night. At Whitewater Memorial State Park, a visitor warned, "Watch out for the raccoons, they are pretty aggressive and were all over our campsite. Clearly they are used to getting handouts, so keep your foodstuffs in your vehicle or well secured."
Tips for camping with families
Lake swimming options: Indian Lake State Park Campground offers multiple water recreation facilities. According to Jamie L., "There is a sand beach for swimming (even a separate doggy beach!) or a new in-ground pool. Primitive to full hook-up sites available as well as 'boat-camping' sites."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several parks feature paved areas perfect for children learning to ride. At Buck Creek State Park, one family mentioned their children "love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes." Look for camping loops with minimal traffic for safer riding.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and interpretive programs enhance family stays. At Cowan Lake, a visitor appreciated "the informational boxes and tags that they had on the trees or plants. This is helpful if you have little ones with you or if you are like me and just like to learn about the animals/plants on the trail."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies: Always check site descriptions before booking. At Natural Springs Resort, one RVer reported, "A bit rough getting RV setup, but pad is fairly level, so easily setup to use slides. Site 60, 46 feet max length, ours 39."
Internet connectivity: Cell service and WiFi access differ widely between parks. At Natural Springs, a visitor measured, "Internet here on t-moble 5G home is 90Mbps down and 6 to 20Mbps up. Verizon on cellphone, only 10Mbs down, 1-3Mbps up. ATT cellphones are similar to Verizon. Great enough for work or play."
Winter camping limitations: While some parks offer year-round camping including winter yurt options near Vandalia, others close seasonally. Check for winterized bathrooms and water availability if camping during colder months as many parks shut off water to prevent frozen pipes.
