Best Campgrounds near Worthington, OH
State parks and developed campgrounds dominate the camping landscape near Worthington, Ohio, with multiple options within a 30-minute drive. Alum Creek State Park and Delaware State Park provide the primary camping destinations in the area, offering a mix of electric and non-electric sites for tents and RVs. Several campgrounds, including Cross Creek Camping Resort and Cardinal Center Campground, also feature cabin accommodations for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping. The region includes both public and private campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and development.
Reservations are strongly recommended for all developed campgrounds in the Worthington area, particularly during summer weekends when facilities frequently reach capacity. Most campgrounds operate seasonally, with limited winter availability at select locations. "Delaware State Park is a gem in the Ohio state park system. What is amazing to us is how few people seem to know it exists," noted one camper, highlighting the potential for finding less crowded alternatives to more popular destinations. Campers should be aware that many sites lack full hookups, with most offering electric-only connections. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with both Verizon and Sprint providing good coverage at most campgrounds.
The camping experience varies significantly between state parks and private campgrounds in the area. State parks like Alum Creek and Delaware feature more spacious sites with better separation and natural surroundings, while private facilities often have sites placed closer together. Water access represents a major draw for many campgrounds, with several offering boat launches, fishing opportunities, and swimming areas. Noise levels can be a concern at some locations, as one visitor mentioned: "The constant road noise and insane amount of small plane traffic is extremely annoying" at Alum Creek. Campground amenities typically include restrooms with flush toilets, shower facilities, and some form of playground or recreational area. Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to surrounding natural areas, providing additional recreational opportunities.