Campgrounds near Waynesburg, Ohio offer a range of experiences from quiet lakeside tent camping to full-service RV accommodations. The region features several small lakes and waterways where seasonal camping runs primarily from May through mid-October. Water depth at swimming areas typically ranges from 3-4 feet, making them suitable for families with children of various ages.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Arrowhead Lake RV Park & Campground, campers can access two distinct ponds. "They have two ponds, one for fishing and one for swimming. The swimming one has a dock kids jump off but it only goes to about 3.5-4 feet deep at the deepest point," notes one visitor.
Kayaking on local waters: The lakes and rivers provide calm waters for paddling. At Kokosing River Campground, "Kayaking on the lake is great. Camp staff very friendly and helpful," according to a Labor Day weekend camper.
Bike trail access: Some campgrounds connect directly to paved recreational trails. At River Trail Crossing, "Bike trail access right from the campground. Golf nearby, Amish shops, canoeing. Great area to visit," reports one reviewer who stayed at a riverfront site.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower areas. At Cedarlane RV Resort, "The pools and bathrooms were clean. The water pressure in the shower house was lacking but I've realized that seems to be at every campground we've stayed at," notes a summer visitor.
Riverside sites: Waterfront camping spots remain popular despite occasional challenges. "We reserved spot 32, farthest site to the right on the river. We loved it. The river was only about knee to hip deep. Most family's floated with tubes and saw some kayaks," reports a visitor to River Trail Crossing.
Quiet atmosphere: Smaller, less crowded campgrounds appeal to those seeking peaceful settings. A Kokosing River visitor described it as a "Nice, small, shaded, well maintained campground. Wasn't crowded when we visited in Sep. but I can imagine when it's full it's a little crowded. Beautiful lake, nice a quiet. Lots of waterfowl."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds around Waynesburg operate on limited schedules. "We stayed till weds and the rest of the time was very nice. The pools and bathrooms were clean," notes a summer visitor to Cedarlane, highlighting how weekday stays often mean fewer crowds.
Site layout challenges: Some rv parks in Waynesburg and surrounding areas have tight spacing between camping spots. At Sandusky Milan RV Park, "Sites are good size in length, but pretty close to your neighbor. Enough space to sit, but not much room."
Recent improvements: Several campgrounds have undergone renovations. Sandusky Milan RV Park has "been wonderfully updated! The owners have added in an additional playground, dog park, newly paved roadways, newly redone building, a new pavilion, fire pit, and boat parking!"
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Cedarlane RV Resort offers multiple water features for children. "They have a great splash pad and wading pool for kids. A gem mine. Horseshoes, basketball court and lots of kids activities," reports a summer visitor.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds program family events during peak periods. At Fort Firelands RV Park, one visitor appreciated the "large grassy area right on the lagoon," though noted a "large flock of geese that stayed near the lagoon which meant goose poop around our site."
Weekday advantages: For quieter family camping near Waynesburg, Ohio, consider non-weekend stays. At Arrowhead Lake, a camper found "Sites are large for the weekend campers. The seasonal ones all have back in and the weekends are pull through which is kinda nice."
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: When staying at RV parks around Waynesburg, bring adaptors for various power configurations. At Fort Firelands, "They have connectors you can use for a $25 deposit and then get your money back when you return the cord. They accept check and cash, no credit cards."
Site leveling: Prepare for potentially uneven grounds at some locations. Arrowhead Lake received positive comments for site preparation: "The sites are large for the weekend campers" and "it was only $45 a night," making it an economical choice among rv parks near Waynesburg.
Dump station logistics: Many campgrounds provide on-site waste disposal. At Camp Perry, "Sewer hook up is flush to the ground with a manhole cover over it. Won't drive over it & break it," demonstrating thoughtful design for RV needs.
