Best Camping in Ohio
Camping in Ohio is an excellent choice if you want a fun and relaxed camping experience. Located in the Midwest, Ohio is home to picturesque landscapes and stunning scenery, which makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as camping. The rugged mountains, serene lakes, and lush forests all combine to give campers heading to Ohio a wonderful camping time.
Those who want to get away from their busy lives and have a respite from the daily grind will find the campgrounds in various Ohio State Parks ideal. Campers visiting Ohio for a weekend trip will learn that other enjoyable activities can be done here, which include hiking, biking, and fishing, among other things.
Ohio does not run short of beautiful places to go camping. The state has much to offer campers and vacationers looking for a fun outdoor holiday. This guide will feature some of the best campgrounds in the state, complete with essential details such as the location, contact number, and average rates for overnight camping.
Read the Ohio camping destinations listed below and see which best suit your preference.
1. Mohican State Park
Cost: Primitive camping starts at $35 for 2 adults
Location: 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842
Phone: (419) 994-5125
Located in Loudonville, Mohican State Park is an excellent camping destination for family and friends looking for the traditional camping experience. The 1,110-acre state park is nestled between Cleveland and Columbus, making it an attractive option for a quick camping getaway not far from the city. The state park offers guests a wide range of camping options, from primitive campgrounds to deluxe cabins.
Visitors can choose among the 100 campsites on offer. Other amenities include toilets, showers, a kids’ playground, a pool, and basketball courts. There’s an option for mining gems at the camp store during the afternoon for the younger campers. Aside from all the camp activities already mentioned, campers going to Mohican State Park will also have a relaxing camping experience with a majestic 27-mile river as a backdrop.
2. Kelleys Island State Park
Cost: $24-$100
Location: 920 Division St, Kelleys Island, OH 43438
Phone: (419) 746-2546
Kelleys Island State Park is an excellent choice for a memorable camping getaway. Campers can choose between campgrounds with or without an electricity connection. Since Kelleys Island State Park is located near Lake Erie on the beautiful Emerald Island, the park has miles of shoreline that people can enjoy as they relax by the water. You can even bring your furry friends because the park has designated pet-friendly areas.
Other park amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, shower areas, and a fish-cleaning area. Campers can choose to stay in a tent, cabin, or yurt, depending on their preference. Camping in Ohio can’t get more fun than Kelleys Island State Park!
3. Hocking Hills State Park
Cost: $20-$60
Location: 19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138
Phone: (740) 385-6842
Once considered a hidden gem in Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park has become one of the state’s most frequented and sought-after destinations. The park attracts Ohio natives and people from all over the country as they come to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience here. Ask anyone who has visited Hocking Hills State Park, and they will tell you that camping is the best way to experience the park’s beauty. The canyons and waterfalls in the park only add to the unique experience you are bound to discover when you camp here.
Hocking Hills State Park features over 160 campsites, and the majority have electrical hookups. In spite of the park teeming with spectacular falls and breathtaking rock formations, the campground features many modern facilities that make camping here convenient and even more relaxing.
4. Crystal Rock Campground
Cost: Rates start at $29
Location: 710 Crystal Rock Ave, Sandusky, OH 44870
Phone: (419) 684-7177
If you are looking for a private campsite in Ohio, check out Crystal Rock Campground. Situated near multiple Ohio attractions — including the famous amusement park Cedar Point — the campground is a great destination for people looking for a campsite with reasonably priced top amenities. Dozens of camps are available, ranging from primitive tents to tents with 50-amp full hookups.
Families who visit for a camping trip will enjoy Crystal Rock Campground’s Gem Mine, which offers hours of fun and entertainment for everyone. Playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, and mini-golf are available for those who want to try other activities besides camping. Additional amenities at Crystal Rock Campground include laundry facilities, a camp store, and a recreational hall.
5. Tappan Lake Park
Cost: Primitive camping rate starts at $37
Location: 84000 Mallarnee Rd, Deersville, OH 44693
Phone: (740) 922-3649
Tappan Lake Park features hundreds of campsites across its lake, so it is not surprising to learn that this camping destination is included in most campers’ must-visit lists. Camping by the water is one of the best outdoor experiences, which makes Tappan Lake Park an excellent destination. Guests camping near the lake can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating. If you do not prefer water activities, you will have plenty of things to do here when you camp. You can opt to walk the park’s trails or even go hunting! Special permits are not required, but you must bring and present your hunting license and permits issued by the Ohio Department Division of Wildlife.
The tranquil campgrounds offer both electric and non-electric rentals for campsites and cabins. Showers, restrooms, fire grills, and picnic tables can also be found in the area.
6. Dillon State Park
Cost: $24 average daily rate
Location: 5265 Dillon Hills Dr, Nashport, OH 43830
Phone: (740) 453-4377
Do you want to camp somewhere private, surrounded by dense greenery in the middle of Ohio? Dillon State Park is a peaceful campground that offers a wide range of tent and RV campsites. The park takes pride in its lush forests and crystal-clear lake waters, making for a perfect camping combination. While the park is an ideal camping destination, Dillon State Park also offers accommodations that include deluxe cabins for a more comfortable overnight stay.
The park provides handicap-accessible sites, showers, and laundry services. Campers can also enjoy archery, disc golf, and basketball. Pets are even allowed at the park, so you can bring your fur babies!
7. Findley State Park
Cost: Rates range from $22-$50
Location: 25381 OH-58, Wellington, OH 44090
Phone: (440) 647-4490
Spanning just under a thousand acres, Findley State Park remains one of Ohio’s ideal camping destinations. The lush woodlands and awe-inspiring view of the horizon make the park even more attractive for travelers and campers. If you are looking for serene campgrounds, you will undoubtedly enjoy the diverse wildlife and beautiful forests the park offers.
While Findley State Park is relatively small compared to other destinations, the 200+ tent sites are more than adequate for your camping requirements. The park has campsites with electrical provisions and water connections. Rental cabins and RV tents are also available for a more convenient camping time.
8. Great Seal State Park
Cost: $20 average nightly rate
Location: 4908 Marietta Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601
Phone: (740) 887-4818
Camping in Ohio doesn’t need to cost much for you to enjoy world-class camping amenities. The Great Seal State Park is an excellent place to explore and learn about the state’s teeming wildlife.
RV camping is available in the park, which is ideal for guests who want a more comfortable and safe RV camping site. Those who wish to engage in primitive camping will find the campgrounds in the park perfect. There’s an absence of electric and water hookups, so primitive camping at the park makes you feel closer to nature. Restrooms are available and within walking distance from the campgrounds. Campers can also explore the trails in the park on foot or with their mountain bikes.
9. Indian Lake State Park
Cost: $26-$50 average camping rates
Location: 13156 OH-235, Lakeview, OH 43331
Phone: 937-843-2717
Indian Lake State Park is an excellent choice for campers who enjoy various water-related activities. Aside from camping, you can enjoy water skiing, fishing, and boating here. The 800-acre park is a favorite among campers who prefer camping by the lake because of Indian Lake’s majestic waters and calm surroundings. Families going here for a camping getaway will find the 441 sites — with electric hookups, showers, and restrooms — ideal for their stay.
Guests who want to try recreational activities such as biking and hiking will find the three-mile trail in the park perfect. Those who want a more comfortable overnight stay can rent cabins with refrigerators, stoves, and bunk beds.
10. John Bryan State Park
Cost: $18-$25 depending on the campsite
Location: 3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Phone: (937) 767-1274
Over 55 campsites are available for campers looking for a relaxing getaway at the John Bryan State Park. The park is arguably one of the Ohio camping spots with the most idyllic scenery and surroundings. Set around the marvelous Clifton Gorge, John Bryan State Park remains a favorite destination for campers who want a quality outdoor experience.
The park is ideal for tent camping because of the shade provided by its thick forests. The wooded campgrounds have nearby picnic tables and fire grills for families and friends looking to have a cookout while camping in the great outdoors. Pets are also allowed on the premises, which makes it even more attractive for pet lover campers.
11. Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Cost: $18-$29 average daily camping rate
Location: 24698 State Rte 65, Grand Rapids, OH 43522
Phone: (419) 832-7662
Are you interested in trying fly fishing when you go camping in Ohio? Mary Jane Thurston State Park is the best place to go if you want to try this fun activity. Campers who wish to spend a day trip or an overnight stay will enjoy the amenities available in the park. Guests will find the area surrounding the beautiful Maumee River a perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy the beauty of nature.
There are various RV sites in the park with electricity to ensure a convenient camping experience for those new to this activity or families with younger kids in tow for their camping vacation. Mary Jane Thurston State Park has restrooms, hot showers, fire rings, and picnic tables.
12. Beaver Creek State Park
Cost: Camping rate starts at $16
Location: 12021 Echo Dell Rd, East Liverpool, OH 43920
Phone: (330) 385-3091
Beaver Creek State Park is located near the Appalachian Mountains to the east of the state. The park offers one of the most daring and challenging camping in Ohio. Seasoned campers will find this park ideal for the ultimate camping experience. Camping at Beaver Creek State Park can be enjoyed in the summer and winter. You can engage in woodland camping activities during the dry, warmer season, while sledding would be the ideal adventure during the snow.
As previously mentioned, Beaver Creek State Park is recommended for experienced campers. The 45 campsites available are mostly suited for primitive camping but still feature showers and restrooms on location.
Conclusion
The Ohio campgrounds and state parks listed above are ideal for families and friends looking for an excellent camping trip. There is something for everybody when it comes to camping in Ohio. Families going on a camping trip with younger children will appreciate camp facilities like playgrounds and sports centers helpful. Those who prefer camping near a body of water to try activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming have various options. Campers who prefer the calm and peace of woodland camping will also have plenty of choices. There is even a camping destination that offers a thrilling time for campers who prefer a more challenging experience.
Research your chosen destination to make your stay here even more fun and worry-free. You can prepare a budget by searching for fees like rental rates. Check out if the amenities available in the campground are enough for your needs. Preparing for your camping trip will help you avoid inconveniences and improve your camping experience.
Going to Ohio for your camping trip is a decision you will not regret. The abundance of things to do in the camping destinations here ensures you are in for a great time. Get your camping things ready and plan your camping holiday to Ohio now!
Hiking in Dallas