Equestrian campgrounds near Reynoldsburg, Ohio provide access to extensive trail systems within a 40-mile radius. The region features rolling woodland terrain with elevation changes between 800-1,100 feet. Most horse-friendly campsites remain open from April through November, with trail conditions optimal during summer and early fall when rainfall averages 3-4 inches monthly.
What to do
Trail riding at Hocking Hills State Park: The park connects to numerous bridle trails ranging from 2-8 miles in length with varying difficulty levels. "The hocking hills park itself is awesome. Great trails, beautiful waterfalls, wonderous caves. They are all pretty short hikes and easy access," notes Laura C. from Hocking Hills State Park Campground.
Fishing at Delaware State Park: The park maintains multiple boat launches and stocked fishing areas approximately 35 miles from Reynoldsburg. Joshua E. reports, "There is even a trail down the back of the campground that goes down to a place for boats to dock on the lake." Delaware State Park spans over 2,000 acres with designated fishing zones.
Hiking at Buck Creek State Park: Located 45 miles west of Reynoldsburg, the park features wooded hiking trails suitable for day trips. "The trails offer varied difficulty levels suitable for beginner to experienced riders," writes one visitor. Mandi B. adds, "Buckcreek had great hammock camping spots and was just what we were looking for, especially considering we scoured several other campgrounds and most of them didn't have trees at the spots."
What campers like
Private wooded sites at Delaware State Park Campground: Campers consistently mention the spacious sites and natural screening. Maddy B. states, "The best thing about this campground is the fact that all the sites have privacy. There are nice trails to walk and the bathrooms are the best I've seen at a campground."
Swimming options at multiple parks: Most equestrian-friendly parks maintain designated swimming areas for cooling off after trail rides. At Buck Creek State Park Campground, campers have access to two swimming beaches. Leon H. notes, "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."
Camp hosts at Dillon State Park: Located 40 miles east of Reynoldsburg, the campground staff receives positive feedback for their attentiveness. "Very well run park. Great facilities," remarks one visitor about the general management of state parks in the region. John L. suggests, "Go to the back of the campground. It is very quite."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many equestrian campgrounds have varied terrain with some sites requiring leveling. At Dillon State Park Campground, campers note this consideration. Gary O. advises, "Many sites are not level. Many sites have NO shade. Only Electric available at each site."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Expect different standards of restroom maintenance across campgrounds. Brian B. from Dillon Lake explains, "There is reasonable space between the sites to allow for some privacy and to allow you to spread out. Area C is the most secluded area. All RV sites have 50A/30A electric."
Weather impacts: Trail conditions can deteriorate quickly after rainfall. Kate W. at Hocking Hills notes, "The sites are mostly far apart from one another and the area is fairly dense woods leaving you feeling a peaceful solitude. There are ample outhouses that are reasonably clean and well-stocked in toilet paper."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer organized ranger programs during summer months. At Alum Creek State Park Campground, Jenny C. shares, "We had an absolute blast at the campsite! We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must and we even got close to wildlife."
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain playground equipment within walking distance of campsites. Jason M. notes about Buck Creek State Park Campground, "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."
Camp store supplies: Stock up before arrival as some campground stores carry limited inventory. Joe I. mentions, "This is our second time coming here really enjoy this place it's typically more of a quiet relaxed camp there is a playground in each of the 4 sections for kids to play with a remodel shower house at each one."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Old Stone Church Campground provides basic amenities for RVers with equestrian needs. Tammy F. explains, "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website). Campsite fee is $15 on the honor system."
Site dimensions: Many horse campgrounds accommodate larger rigs but require advance planning. Linda G. at Korbel notes, "Over 300 sites, first come basis. Full hookups. Park on grass site, level. We like this kind of basic camping as we have a motorhome and use our own facilities."
Maneuverability considerations: Roads within equestrian campgrounds may present challenges for larger vehicles. Marshall P. from Lake Hope explains, "While the site we stayed in with the motorhome was fairly level, sites are mostly small and tight on hilly terrain. That said, I would still recommend this as a nice weekend getaway."
