Camping sites near Waverly, Ohio range from rustic state parks to family-focused recreation areas with varying seasonal schedules. Situated among the Appalachian foothills, the region offers elevation changes from 600-1,200 feet and receives approximately 41 inches of annual rainfall, creating drainage challenges at many campgrounds during wet periods. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife including wild turkeys and white-tailed deer.
What to do
Lake activities and fishing: Pine Lake at Tar Hollow State Park Campground offers fishing, swimming, and boat rentals. "Pine lake is a beautiful little spot to fish, rent a paddle boat, or just relax. There is also a pretty spacious beach area," notes a camper. The park maintains a designated swim area with sand beach.
Hiking trail systems: Explore multiple trail systems ranging from short family hikes to extensive forest treks. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, the location provides direct access to popular trails. "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave," reports one visitor.
Family recreation options: For families seeking additional activities, Long's Retreat Family Resort offers numerous recreation choices. "Plenty of things to do. Swimming, water slides, canoeing, go-cart racing, mini golf, and a full arcade give plenty of variety," writes a regular camper. Most activities are included with camping fees.
What campers like
Secluded tent camping areas: Tent campers appreciate the separate, more remote camping areas. "The north ridge campground is in an entirely separate area of the park than the RVs and there aren't many campsites, so in that way it feels a little more remote and secluded," notes a Tar Hollow camper.
Clean facilities: While amenity levels vary widely, maintained facilities receive consistent praise. At Sun Valley Campground, visitors note: "This campground has a lot to offer with electric and water hookups for RVs with back-in and pull through sites. They have a dump station as well as an onsite bathroom/shower house."
Digital disconnection: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service. "No cell service. Enjoy the outdoors! You are off the grid!" reports one camper about Tar Hollow. Another camper at Long's Retreat adds: "Love no cell reception! Quiet clean and staff (owner) is always pleasant and helpful!"
What you should know
Tent site accessibility: Some tent-only areas require carrying equipment from parking areas. At Tar Hollow, "You cannot park your car directly at your campsite. There is a parking lot at the bottom of the campground hill. You have to carry your items to your campsite. Depending on what site you reserved you could have to walk uphill for about 100-150 yards."
Site selection importance: Research site selection carefully as qualities vary significantly. A Pike Lake State Park camper advises: "We visited when the leaves were changing and it was absolutely gorgeous. Hiking was great. Campground is small, some sites too small for our 20' trailer and truck."
Drainage issues: Pike Lake State Park Campground and other area campgrounds have drainage problems during wet weather. One visitor warns: "We enjoyed our stay here. Just an fyi to others - it rained quite a bit and many of the sites got flooded. The ground here doesn't drain well."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Families with children should consider campgrounds with swimming areas. "We go here at least once a year! Usually with a large group! Lots for kid to do! The bathrooms, showers and camping sites are always well maintained and clean!" notes a Long's Retreat camper.
Organized activities: Look for campgrounds with scheduled naturalist programs. "The rangers and naturalists have many activities going on and are very knowledgeable," reports a visitor to Hocking Hills State Park.
Age-appropriate hikes: Plan hikes suitable for children's abilities. "We enjoyed it with our large breed dog and toddler," mentions a Hocking Hills camper about the park's trail system. Most trails in the region range from 0.5 to 3 miles with moderate terrain changes.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many campsites require leveling equipment. At Scioto Trail State Park Campground, an RV camper notes: "It was a good campground, we had a hard time getting our rv to be level but overall we enjoyed it."
Full hookup availability: Limited full hookups are available. A Hocking Hills camper mentions, "We enjoyed a full hookup site. The spots aren't very spacious but there's lots of trees nearby and an easy walk to get to Old Mans Cave."
Site size limitations: Verify site dimensions before booking. "Sites in the outsides of the loops are more spacious," advises a Scioto Trail camper. Larger RVs should call ahead to confirm site suitability as many parks have limited large vehicle access.
