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Ohio is a state that links the Northeast to the Midwest, sharing history and customs with both areas to create its own identity. The state’s varied terrain, vibrant cities, world-class attractions, and year-round abundance of outdoor activities attract all different types of visitors. From Cedar Point amusement park and the Columbus Zoo to the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, there’s plenty for locals and visitors alike to enjoy in Ohio’s towns and cities.
Still, Ohioans are big on the outdoors, and there are many lesser-known destinations to see via the state parks. The state is full of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs besides the more-famous Lake Erie and Ohio River. Many Ohio state parks have a body of water as their main feature, making their campgrounds particularly appealing to boaters and anglers—or anyone who simply enjoys a water view close to their campsite. There are some surprisingly dramatic landscapes to traverse, from deep forest to dramatic gorges, rock formations, and waterfalls, and of course the spectacular Cuyahoga Valley National Park. With close to 30 big rig friendly campgrounds, the state parks provide a great, economical opportunity to discover Ohio from the comfort of your RV.
Reservations
To make a reservation, visit reserveohio.com/OhioCampWeb/ or call 866-644-6727.
Reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance. Walk-ins are not accepted.
A minimum of 2 nights applies over weekends, 3 three nights for holidays.
Campsite sizes
Campsite sizes vary, although in general Ohio state park campgrounds are big rig friendly. Many parks have large campgrounds with over 100 sites, which can accommodate a variety of RV types and sizes.
Campsites can be searched for by RV length for each park on the reservation website.
Accessibility
Call the reservation line for information on booking ADA-accessible campsites.
Hookups
Ohio state park campgrounds offer sites with partial and full hookups. Information on the number of hookup sites can be found under “Camping Facilities” on each park’s website. Details per site are provided in the reservation system.
Connectivity
Ohio state parks have started offering WiFi, although information on which parks have it is not readily available. If connectivity is a priority, contact the park directly to ask about WiFi and cell service.
Maximum stay
The maximum stay is 14 nights in a 30 day period.
Additional facilities
Most campsites have picnic tables and grills. Details can be found per site in the reservation system. Basic facilities at campgrounds include restrooms with showers and a dump station. Other features may include a camp store, sports courts, nature programs, hiking trails, beaches, and boating access. Parks with lodges will have additional amenities.
Details can be found under “Camping Facilities” on each park’s website.
Cost
Prices range from $20 to $50, depending on the park, campsite amenities, and site location. View prices per site / per date in the reservation system.
Additional Fees:
Nonrefundable reservation fee: $6
Change fee: The first change is allowed for free. Any additional changes are $6.
Cancellations more than 30 days prior to arrival: No additional fee.
Cancellations between 30 and 4 days prior to arrival: $6
Cancellations less than 4 days prior to arrival: One night’s fee.
Pet policies
Pets are allowed as long as they’re kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. A maximum of 2 pets is allowed per campsite, and vaccination records may be requested. And of course, campers should always pick up after their pet.
Many parks have off-leash areas, such as dog parks and designated beaches.
Additional regulations
- Maximum occupancy per site: 2 vehicles, 6 people or immediate family.
- Check-in time: 3 p.m. Check-out time: 1 p.m.
- Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Alcoholic beverages: Prohibited in most parks. Some campgrounds allow alcohol to be consumed at campsites; check with the park for specific rules.
- Generator use: Prohibited during quiet hours.
- Campfires: Allowed in designated rings or pits, following local advisories.
- Drone use: Prohibited.
Featured Campgrounds
Hocking Hills State Park
19852 State Route 664, Logan, OH 43138
A camping trip to Ohio isn’t complete without a visit to Hocking Hills, a state park that is acclaimed as a top park destination in the U.S. Featuring towering cliffs, waterfalls, and dramatic hemlock-shaded gorges, this is a magical destination for hikers and nature lovers. With springtime wildflowers, vivid fall foliage, and frozen winter waterfalls, Hocking Hills is stunning in every season.
The park’s small campground has been recently upgraded, with full hookups available along with electric-only and primitive sites. Each site is paved and can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet. Facilities include restrooms with showers, laundry, a dump station and a camp store. The campground has a seasonal swimming pool, playgrounds, and sports courts. Best of all, campers have direct access to trails to see the natural wonderland of Hocking Hills State Park before and after the day-tripping crowds.
Mohican State Park
3116 State Route 3, Loudonville, OH 44842
Mohican State Park spans more than 1,000 acres and is also right next to a 4,500-acre state forest, providing even more protected wilderness for visitors to enjoy. The park’s main attractions are trail running, mountain biking, canoeing, and tubing. A 27-mile stretch of the Mohican River runs through the park, earning it the nickname “the Canoe Capital of Ohio.” But fear not, landlubbers; Clear Fork Gorge, Lyons Falls, and all those wooded acres provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the dry land.
A large swimming pool, splash pad, playground, and nature programs make this state park campground a popular destination for families. About 100 sites are available with a range of full hookups, electric only, and no hookups. Tent camping and cabins are part of the large campground, with shared bathhouses and a campground store. Families will love the sites near the central playground and sports courts. More private sites that back up to the creek away from the action are worth the premium rate. Make reservations in advance to secure a spot at this well-loved Ohio state park campground.
Kelleys Island State Park
920 Division Street, Kelleys Island, OH 43438
Near the Ohio-Michigan border, Kelleys Island is known as the “Emerald Isle” of Lake Erie. The state park takes up 25 percent of the island and highlights unique geological, ecological, and archaeological features. The park and the island in general are a great family destination, with a limited number of cars and extensive hiking and biking trails covering relatively flat terrain. Many islanders get around by golf cart. A variety of outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and boating are easily accessible, and the incredible views are endless.The shady lakeside campground has more than 120 electric and nonelectric sites. Some sites are designated for pets; check details along with site length when booking. Sites are limited for RVs that are 40 feet or more. Campground facilities include restrooms with showers, a dump station, and a playground. The charming downtown of Kelleys Island is just a few minutes away, with shopping and dining options. Note that the island is accessible only by ferry. Check schedules and prices at kelleysislandferry.com or call 419-798-9763.
Ohio state park campgrounds that accommodate RV camping
Alum Creek State Park
Barkcamp State Park
Beaver Creek State Park
Buck Creek State Park
Burr Oak State Park
Caesar Creek State Park
Deer Creek State Park
Dillon State Park
East Fork State Park
East Harbor State Park
Findley State Park
Forked Run State Park
Geneva State Park
Grand Lake St. Marys State Park
Harrison Lake State Park
Hocking Hills State Park
Indian Lake State Park
Kelleys Island State Park
Lake Alma State Park
Lake Loramie State Park
Mohican State Park
Mosquito Lake State Park
Mount Gilead State Park
Punderson State Park
Pymatuning State Park
Rocky Fork State Park
Salt Fork State Park
South Bass Island State Park
West Branch State Park
For more information on Ohio state park campgrounds, visit ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-odnr/division-parks-watercraft/state-parks-boating.
