There's nothing quite like pitching a tent and spending some quality time in the great outdoors. Ohio has no shortage of amazing camping spots to choose from! From scenic hikes to stunning lakeside views, here are my top picks for the best places to camp in Ohio. So grab your gear, pack some bug spray, and let me guide you through the top 10 places to camp in Ohio.
Top 10 Places to Camp in Ohio
1. Hocking Hills State Park: Located in Logan, OH - Best visited between April-October
Located about an hour southeast of Columbus, Hocking Hills State Park is hands down the best camping destinations. The park offers tons of hiking trails with breathtaking waterfalls and rock formations (be sure to check out Old Man's Cave), as well as plenty of campsites ranging from primitive sites for tents up to full RV hookups. If you're visiting during peak season (April-October), be sure to make a reservation ahead of time!
2. Mohican State Park: Loudonville – Open Year Round (weather permitting)
If great views are what you’re after then look no further because at Mohican State Park they will blow-your-mind-away beautiful sunsets alone! Plus any outdoor activity enthusiast will never run out of things to do. Enjoy biking and kayaking down rivers and lakes or rock climbing on nearby cliffs!
3. Camp Sandusky: Sandusky -Best Visited Between May-August
Families need not worry about boring their kids when staying at Camp Sandusky as the grounds have endless activities from swimming pools to waterslides all ages can enjoy along canoeing trips through the Cuyahoga River.
4. Lake Hope State: Zaleski – Primarily Dates For Spring/Summer arrive early!
Nestled among mature trees & surrounded by rolling hills, this scenic spot should definitely make everyone’s summer getaway itinerary! With lakeside views, perfect eating lakhs of pics or boating trips to catch some much-needed to relax.
5. Salt Fork State Park: Cambridge –Best Visited Between May-August
This park is one Ohio's best-kept secrets and for good reason! The massive lake alone covers over 2000 acres with lots of little coves that are perfect for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Plus horseback riding on site too!
6. Punderson State Park: Newbury – Best visited between April-November
Need a change from your usual tent? Book One-of-a-kind yurts and cottages-house perfect cozy nature retreat as well trails around adjacent Forest Sanctuary highly suggest at this unique spot!
7. Alum Creek State Park: Delaware– Primarily For Spring/Summer campers line up fast!
Thrill seekers rejoice because Alum state park offers easy access to zip-lining treetop excursion courses definitely worth the experience of trying out. If you’re brave enough to stay overnight in Columbus, the nearby area makes your stay even more enjoyable with nearby attractions.
8. Geneva-On-The-Lake KOA RV Resort & Campground (April to October)
If you prefer your outdoor adventures with a little bit more modern amenities thrown in, then Geneva-On-The-Lake KOA RV Resort & Campground might just be the perfect spot for you. Located on Lake Erie near Ashtabula County (about 2 hours northeast of Cleveland), this resort features everything from traditional tent sites up through deluxe cabins with fully-equipped kitchens and hot tubs! They also offer fun activities such as mini golf and bike rentals.
9. Zaleski Backpack Trail - Zaleksi (March through October)
For those who want their wilderness experience taken up another notch or two try backpacking along the Zaleski Backback Trail located south Montgomery county. This trail is one challenging trek but definitely worth taking between forests littered with interesting fauna.
10. Bear Run Inn Cabins/RV - Portsmouth/Greenup Counties (Mid-June September)
Want to get away from the stresses of daily life, but still enjoy some creature comforts? Then plan a trip down to Bear Run Inn Cabins located in both Portsmouth and Greenup counties. These cabins offer all you can dream of in an accommodation such as fully-equipped kitchens, outdoor hot tubs with scenic views, and spacious porches where guests recharge. You don't have access to nature-rich parks but there are other attractions like Plantations, National Museum among others.
Camping in Ohio Essentials
Ohio is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors, and camping is one of the most popular activities among locals and tourists alike. To ensure a comfortable and safe camping experience, you need to have the right equipment and essentials with you. Here are some of the must-haves for camping in Ohio:
1. A high-quality tent: Your shelter is the most critical piece of equipment when it comes to camping. A high-quality tent will protect you from the elements and keep you dry and warm during the night. Look for a tent that is sturdy, well-ventilated, and easy to set up.
2. Warm clothing layers: Even during the summer, nights in Ohio can get chilly. To stay warm and comfortable, bring plenty of warm clothing layers, including thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and wool hats. It's better to overpack than to underpack when it comes to clothing, so don't hesitate to bring extra layers.
3. Good quality sleeping bag: A good sleeping bag is essential for a good night's sleep. Look for a sleeping bag that is rated for the lowest temperature you expect to encounter during your trip. Down-filled sleeping bags are warm and lightweight, but synthetic materials are more durable and less expensive.
4. Portable Water Filters/purifiers: When you're camping, you'll need a reliable source of drinking water. Portable water filters and purifiers are essential for ensuring that the water you drink is safe and clean. Look for a high-quality water filter that removes bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.
5. Backup Power: In case of emergency or unexpected circumstances, it's always good to have backup power with you. A portable power bank or solar charger can keep your phone, GPS, and other electronic devices charged and ready to go, even if you're far from civilization.
When it comes to backup power, the Anker SOLIX F2000 stands out as a top choice for campers. With our cutting-edge InfiniPower™ technology, the Anker SOLIX F2000 offers a whopping 2300W and 2048Wh of power, allowing you to charge laptops, cameras, and other essential devices with ease. Additionally, the expansion battery can increase capacity to 4096Wh, making it an excellent choice for extended camping trips. The Anker SOLIX F2000 also boasts a 1000W solar input that can be utilized to charge the device quickly and efficiently with our Fast Charging System, GaNPrime. In addition, it also comes equipped with a TT-30 port for RVs, making it a versatile and practical choice for campers of all kinds.
Camping in Ohio Tips
Camping in Ohio is a wonderful experience that offers a range of exciting and unique opportunities to explore the natural beauty of this great state. To make the most of your camping experience, here are some tips that you can follow:
1. Check Weather Forecast Before Packing
Ohio weather can change drastically from sunny skies to thunderstorms within hours! Hence don't forget to bring rain gear. Remember complete protection against unpredictable elements adds convenience & guarantees safety especially if traveling with kids.
2. Arrive Early
Arriving at least a few hours early has multiple benefits: good campsites like level ground beside a pond or close proximity from restrooms, showers etc. Setting up tents during daylight-hour saves time + allows for eventful sightseeing and activities nearby.
3. Make A Checklist
Creating a checklist alleviates stress by checking off individual items packed the best way possible without leaving anything behind.
4. Be Mindful of Wildlife
Ohio provides a habitat for many protected & endangered species. Therefore don't forget to read up on regional wildlife and learn the safety measures according to your chosen campsite!
Final Thoughts
No matter what your camping style may be-from rustic tent sites up through deluxe RV resorts-Ohio has something for everyone looking for a great weekend escape! So pack up that backpack and head out into the wild blue yonder-you won’t regret it.
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