Beaver Creek State Park Campground includes both an equestrian camping section and family camping options. The equestrian area contains 59 primitive sites along Sprucevale Road with horse tie-ups and vault latrines. The family section offers 50 campsites including 6 with electric hookups. The camping experience varies by location within the park, with some areas featuring rocky terrain and narrow pads that make trailer positioning difficult. The park's 2,722 acres border Little Beaver Creek, a designated wild scenic river, and connect to the North Country National Scenic Trail for extensive riding opportunities.
What to do
Hiking the North Country Trail: Access portions of this scenic trail directly from Jefferson Lake State Park Campground. "There are some lovely hiking trails around the lake and spillway," notes Teri A., who enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere despite rainy conditions.
Kayaking opportunities: Water levels determine paddling conditions at Beaver Creek. The park connects to paddling routes along Little Beaver Creek, a state and national wild scenic river. At Danner Primitive Campground, "There are 8 sites spread out along the edge of the river... A few of the sites had stairs to the water for paddler access," according to Casey L.
Historical exploration: Visit the pioneer village at Beaver Creek State Park with original buildings dating back to pioneer days. "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it," notes Shay D., who adds, "There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)."
What campers like
Pine tree camping sites: The wooded areas at Beaver Creek State Park Campground provide sheltered spots for tent campers. Aaron B. recommends specific sites: "When you pull into Beaver Creek Family Campground you pretty much have two choices: either you go left into multiple Pine tree sites or right into two cabins and more RV friendly open sites... I suggest the pine sites for any tent or hammock campers."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the no-cost sites at Hidden Hollow Campground. "Very well kept, completely free 1st come campground just outside the very small town of Bloomingdale, OH," writes Joe W., who has camped there multiple times. Another camper, Donald F., confirms: "Self-register with cards located at pit latrine building. 14 days every 30."
Dark night skies: The rural location allows for stargazing opportunities away from city light pollution. Matt H. observed that "The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities. To cap it off, we laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!"
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Most campgrounds in the area have basic toilet facilities but limited shower access. At Jefferson Lake, Alex S. reports, "They also advertise a water filling station but neglected to mention that it is non-potable water." For Hidden Hollow, Danielle S. warns, "The women's bathroom is filthy... It's turkey season so lots of noise in the woods."
Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal changes that affect camping conditions. During spring and fall, temperatures can vary significantly between day and night. Summer brings warmer weather but also increased insect activity. Justin T. notes at Hidden Hollow to "bring big spray" and warns about "Harvest Spiders all over the place so be cautious."
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain that can impact tent placement. At Moraine State Park, Matt R. advises about the shelter sites: "There are three shelters which are all very mouse infested. I believe this is because the site does not have a bear pole or bear box."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near recreational areas for easier entertainment. Matt H. shares, "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy."
Fishing opportunities: Little Beaver Creek and nearby lakes provide fishing spots suitable for children. Mike T. notes, "There is canoeing but no swimming. Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!!"
Level ground for tents: When camping with children, prioritize flatter sites for more comfortable sleeping. Kellie A. advises, "Some sites are small and very sloped. Others have lots of room to spread out," emphasizing the importance of careful site selection for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Access routes: When approaching Beaver Creek with larger vehicles, plan your route carefully. Bounding Around warns, "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RV's/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!"
Electric site limitations: The region has limited full-hookup options. Eddie from Jefferson Lake notes, "Only 5 electric sites... Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord." This requires planning for power needs or selecting a campground with appropriate hookups.
Water access planning: Many campgrounds have restricted water access. Eddie continues, "All water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal. We were later told by staff the maintenance building had a threaded spigot."