Situated in eastern Ohio at the confluence of the Licking and Muskingum rivers, Zanesville offers multiple camping options within a 30-mile radius. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 feet and experiences four distinct seasons. Area campgrounds vary from small, private parks to larger state-managed facilities with differing amenities and natural surroundings.
What to do
Kayaking on rivers and lakes: The Muskingum River provides excellent paddling opportunities near Riversedge Campground, which offers equipment rentals and shuttle service. "If you decide to rent a kayak they will even drop you off upstream to start your trip," notes Ken P., who adds that the campground recently "purchased 62 acres for hiking across the road."
Fishing in stocked ponds: Several campgrounds maintain fishing areas for guests. At North Branch Kokosing River Campground, campers can fish the adjacent lake. "Beautiful lake, nice and quiet. Lots of waterfowl," writes Shelly S., who visited in September when the campground wasn't crowded.
Exploring Amish Country: Campers staying near Berlin can visit authentic Amish shops and restaurants within a short drive. A camper at Berlin RV Park & Campground noted it's "centrally located in Berlin, OH" with staff who are "very friendly and knowledgeable about local attractions and dining."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple rv campgrounds near Zanesville, Ohio maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. At Berlin RV Park & Campground, campers consistently praise the upkeep: "The bathrooms, showers and laundry areas were very clean. There also was not an issue with biting insects- none of us got a mosquito bite during our stay here," writes Jenalee R.
Riverside camping spots: Several campgrounds offer sites directly on waterways. "Our tent was right on the river and Kelli was the best host ever! On our last day she brought us warm cinnamon rolls and coffee," reports Eric S. about Riversedge Campground, where tent sites sit right beside the water.
Quiet atmosphere: Many Zanesville area campgrounds provide peaceful settings away from city noise. Scenic Hills RV Park gets high marks for tranquility, with Tom H. noting: "Very nice park. Nothing much for kids, so it's nice for peace and quiet."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many Zanesville area rv campgrounds close during winter months. Campers Grove RV Park in Hopewell runs from April through October, while Scenic Hills RV Park operates April 1 to November 1. Call ahead to confirm opening dates when planning spring trips.
Varying water access: Not all waterfront campgrounds offer easy water entry points. At Hocking River RV Park, a camper noted: "Figured we'd bring some swim suits since it's on the river but there really wasn't any way to the river as the bank was about 5 feet up."
Shade availability: Tree cover varies significantly between parks and specific sites. At Shadow Lake RV Resort, natural shade is plentiful: "There are several ponds located on the property and trails meander along and around the 100 acre property. We see deer almost every evening," reported Darla.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: When traveling with children, select parks that offer recreational options. One camper noted about Kokosing River Campground: "Peaceful and great for kids. Kayaking on the lake is great. Camp staff very friendly and helpful."
Check playground availability: Not all parks cater to younger visitors. A Hocking River RV Park camper observed: "No playground which made camping with kids very uneventful for them."
Consider riverside tent sites: At Riversedge Campground, tent camping right by the water provides entertainment: "The tent sites are right next to the water and there is a beach and dock nearby also," writes Ken P., who chose the location for a father-son getaway.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many RV sites in the Zanesville area require adjustment. At Berlin RV Park, one camper noted: "In the part where I am it is gravel site but level side to side," though hookup locations presented a challenge: "water and electricity is located in the rear area of RV, while sewer connections are toward the front."
Campground layouts: Spacing between sites varies significantly across rv parks around Zanesville. "Very close to the nice little downtown Marietta, Ohio but still very rural location. Large sites," writes James P. about Ashland RV Park.
Hookup configurations: Many campgrounds have specific utility placement that may require longer cables or hoses. Earl B. at Scenic Hills RV Park mentioned: "I personally used 50' of water line and 30' of sewer line (which I carry with me anyways)."
