Primitive camping options abound within 40 miles of Williamsport, Ohio, with several campgrounds offering tent-only sections that provide more seclusion than standard sites. The region sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with a mix of flat river valleys and rolling hills. During summer, nighttime temperatures typically drop to the mid-60s, requiring light sleeping gear even when daytime temperatures reach the 90s.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Ross at A.W. Marion State Park features a 5-mile hiking and mountain biking loop around the water. "The lake has a small beach area where you can take your dogs," notes Shannon G., who stayed in early 2020. The lake provides multiple fishing spots with seasonal stocking.
Mountain biking trails: Alum Creek State Park maintains dedicated mountain biking paths separate from hiking trails. "There is a general store on site with firewood, propane, food items, gifts, camping gear, (hitch pins even, I lost mine)," reports Meghan H., who appreciated the trail proximity to campsites.
Outdoor movie nights: Several campgrounds schedule regular evening entertainment. Karen H. mentions that A.W. Marion offers a "Movie for the kids at the outdoor theater," providing family-friendly entertainment options during summer weekends.
Backpacking practice: Scioto Grove Metro Park offers free primitive camping along their REI water trail. "Great for trying out backpacking gear setup... All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided," notes Susan G., who appreciates the opportunity to test equipment before longer trips.
What campers like
Winter accessibility: Paint Creek State Park Campground remains open year-round with heated bathrooms and showers for cold-weather camping. Shannon G. describes winter camping there: "Only electric and vault toilets are available in the winter. You might scrunch your nose about the vault toilet, but they were kept very clean."
Lake activities: The swimming and recreation options at Jackson Lake Park appeal to families with children. One visitor reports, "My children were upset we had to leave early due to the storm coming in. The little lake was so much fun."
Private camping spots: Tar Hollow State Park Campground features both primitive tent sites and electric hookups. "Site 106 is a great site if you choose to stay here. It is very flat, one of the most flat sites (I think 105 is more flat) and so my night's sleep was great," mentions Caroline, who stayed in the North Ridge campsite.
Walk-in tent camping: Hocking Hills State Park offers dedicated walk-in family campsites with greater privacy than the main campground. Kate W. explains, "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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, with some sites filling months ahead. Lake Hill Campground maintains cabin rentals year-round but availability fluctuates based on weather conditions. "The cabins based on current information from their website some of them are not being rented due to the massive amount of rains we have had in recent times," reports a 2019 visitor.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have unreliable cellular coverage. At Hocking Hills State Park Campground, you'll likely need to drive to higher elevations for service. "It is pretty remote (no cell phone coverage at even the top of the hills), and really is a chance to 'get away' from the modern life," notes Jonathan W. about nearby Tar Hollow.
Limited shower facilities: Several campgrounds have minimal shower facilities or none at all. A visitor to A.W. Marion notes, "There are no showers in this campground of which I am aware, but the flush toilets and sinks are a nice change from pit toilets."
Seasonal closures: Scioto Grove Metro Park only permits camping on weekends and closes completely during winter. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I'm sure it's pretty and all, but it's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio!" reports Joaquim P.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Deer Creek Camping Resort, families appreciate the generous site sizes. "Our site was HUGE! The pad was very level, so setting up the TT was quick and easy," reports Kim H., who found the campground well-maintained for families.
Kid-friendly water features: Jackson Lake Park maintains a swimming pond with inflatable play structures during summer months. "All around a beautiful area... Very pleased with the stay so far," notes Madison, though she was disappointed the pool was closed during her visit.
Nature programs: Several campgrounds offer organized activities led by naturalists. A visitor to Tar Hollow mentions, "In past years we've been able to spend an hour or so at the nature rooms, and then let the kids go off with the naturalist on an hour+ guided hike down the creek to explore for wildlife and plants."
Proximity to historic sites: Several campgrounds sit near historical attractions worth visiting with children. Kenpocentaur K. mentions Lake Hill Campground's proximity to an outdoor drama: "I also knew that it was close to an outdoor drama. I was researching the play again but I have just realized that I have missed the season again."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Sun Valley Campground offers complete services for recreational vehicles. "Full service hookups used. Rain and water made area a bit mushy in places. Had great experiences with managers and other tenants," reports Johnothan R., who found the campground peaceful and pet-friendly.
Leveling considerations: Several campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring additional equipment. A visitor to Alum Creek notes, "Be careful with rainy weather, some sites have flooded in poor weather," highlighting the importance of site selection based on weather forecasts.
Water access issues: Some campgrounds have challenging water hookup systems. At Alum Creek, "The only negative was the lack of a central fresh water fill station. Spigots are dispersed throughout the camp, which means sitting in the road for as long as it takes to fill your tank," reports Kim H.
