Equestrian camping near Zanesfield, Ohio combines woodland trails with lake access in a region defined by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. The area typically experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most equestrian campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, with limited winter facilities available at select locations.
What to do
Fishing at Buck Creek Reservoir: Buck Creek State Park offers shoreline fishing along its 2,120-acre lake with abundant bass, catfish, and crappie. "The reservoir seems like the big draw for this park," notes Amanda P., who found the camping area "pretty quiet and uncrowded" during a late summer visit.
Kayaking on motor-free waters: At Kiser Lake State Park Campground, visitors enjoy a unique paddling experience on a motor-restricted lake. "This park is known for the lake that is kayak and canoe friendly since it doesn't allow any kind of boat with a motor," explains Andrea F., adding that reasonable rental prices make it accessible for campers without their own equipment.
Hiking wooded trails: Delaware State Park features interconnected hiking paths through diverse terrain. "There are plenty of hiking/biking trails for you to get out and explore the park. Many of the trails link together so you can decide how long you want to hike," according to Nancy W., who specifically recommends the Lakeview Trail for dogs who enjoy water access.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campers consistently praise Delaware State Park Campground for its thoughtful layout. "The 'pod' layout of the campground made for large campsites with good separation between sites. There are 212 sites that have 50 amp electric," writes Nancy W., noting some sites exceed 90 feet in length to accommodate large RVs.
Family-oriented activities: Alum Creek State Park Campground offers structured entertainment for young campers. "They have pancake breakfast on Saturday mornings through summer and doughnuts on Sunday. Helpful camphost," reports Jill B., who also mentions the campground beach, boat launch, and hiking paths available within the park.
Quieter camping experience: Several parks in the region maintain a peaceful atmosphere. "A hidden gem, super quiet, low traffic and decent fishing," writes Buck B. about Kiser Lake State Park. Similarly, Joe I. describes Delaware State Park as "typically more of a quiet relaxed camp" with playground areas in each of its four sections.
What you should know
Storm safety measures: Buck Creek State Park Campground includes weather safety infrastructure. "The campground's tornado shelter offers added safety during severe weather," mentions Marshall P., who appreciated the shelter being "well marked and easy to get to from any of the campground areas."
Bathroom condition varies: Facilities receive mixed reviews across parks. At Delaware State Park, Joe I. notes "a remodel shower house at each" of the four sections. Meanwhile, Thomas M. found Alum Creek's bathrooms and showers "some of the least clean we have ever seen."
Limited hookups at some parks: While Delaware State Park offers electric sites, Nancy W. points out "There is no sewer or water at individual sites but there is a dump station and water fill station near the park entrance." Similarly, at Kiser Lake, Aaliya B. notes "The campground has no full hookups but does have electric."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Kiser Lake State Park Campground includes swimming areas for children. "The park spans over 2,000 acres with varied terrain" and features "the park's 800-foot swimming beach provides a refreshing option," notes Andrew L., who appreciates the "beach, volleyball net, playground" available for families.
Halloween weekend events: Buck Creek schedules seasonal activities for children. "They had a lot of families there because they had all sorts of Halloween activities going on," writes Alexandra F., who visited in early October and found the campground "very family friendly" despite some minor rule bending.
Child-friendly bike paths: Alum Creek provides safe cycling routes. "Plenty of hiking paths in the campground and in the park area," mentions Jill B., while Buck B. adds "my sons love camping here for the trails and large areas to ride their bikes."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Kiser Lake State Park Campground, RV positioning matters according to seasonal factors. "Don't get a site in the back under the walnut trees in the fall. They drop all day & night long," warns John L., suggesting campers choose sites along the perimeter or lakefront instead.
Level pads available: Buck Creek features well-maintained RV parking surfaces. "Our space was nice and level. Nice hiking trails in the area," reports Lisa M., who stayed during a busy Labor Day weekend but still found the park didn't feel crowded.
Asphalt pads and utilities: Delaware State Park's design accommodates larger rigs. "Roads and campsites are paved with grassy patios that feature picnic tables and fire pits," notes Nancy W., who also mentions that while the park doesn't provide WiFi, personal Verizon hotspots and 4G phones worked well during their stay.
