Top 4 State Parks in Ohio
Camping season has begun. Whether it is just a weekend getaway or a vacation, Ohio has so many beautiful places to choose from. Camping is one of my most favorite things to do with family. Not only does it get you out in nature, but it also helps everyone reconnect without the constant interruptions of technology and social media. Before you get ahead of yourself planning a trip, you will want to do a little research as to whether or not you need a reservation. Here are some of the best places to take your family for a memorable camping trip and insight as to what each site offers!
Lake Hope State Park
Lake Hope
Located in McArthur, Ohio, Lake Hope State Park has everything a nature lover would want. Abandoned mines, ancient mounds, and beautiful scenery are a dream for hikers and nature lovers alike. If you are interested in spending time on the water, they offer canoe and rowboat rentals at the beach, and a swimming beach is located near the dam. Fishing, mountain biking, and bridle trails are also offered on the premises. The campground sits on 119 beautiful acres suitable for tents or trailers. The amenities include heated showers, laundry facilities, picnic tables, fire rings, electric hookups, pit latrines, and waste disposal. Feel free to take your pets, as they are welcome to experience this campground with you. If you prefer to stay in a lodge or cottage, they also offer those options with all the amenities.
Mohican State Park
Mohican State Park
Mohican State Park located in Loudonville, Ohio is one of my favorite places to go. The sandstone cliff walls along the Mohican River have always been so intriguing, and I enjoy sharing that with my family. Created from the last glacier to enter Ohio over 12,000 years ago, it is a fun and interesting story to continue to share. The campground offers 153 campsites with electricity, fire rings, and picnic tables. There are also 25 cottages located along the river that will accommodate a party of 6. The cottages are heated year-round and provide cooking utensils, towels, bed linens, and blankets. If you enjoy something more luxurious, the lodge offers a secluded and comfortable getaway with resort accommodations. The activities you can enjoy are endless. Wherever you decide to stay at the Mohican State Park, you can enjoy swimming at one of the pools they have on site. My family enjoys canoeing down the river and sightseeing. After all, the Mohican River is one of the best rivers in Ohio to float. The park also offers over 12 miles of trails where you can enjoy waterfalls, views of the lake, and a scenic wooden bridge. Don't forget to pack those fishing poles, you can make some great catches at the lake and the river!
Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills Camping
Hocking Hills State Park is located in Logan, Ohio and is right by the ever-popular Old Man's Cave. They have a primitive campground, camper cabins, and 30 walk-in family sites. The amenities here include heated showers, flush toilets, laundry facilities, dump station, and fill station. When you camp here, you can enjoy the seven major hiking trails, each offering a unique sightseeing experience. There is also a swimming pool, volleyball court, and playground. While you are staying at the campground you can enjoy the surrounding activities, such as canoeing, horseback riding, putt-putt, paintballing, and zip-lining. All of which should be on your to do list! If a cabin or lodge is more your style, Hocking Hills has an endless number of options. You can even rent a treehouse!
Dillon State Park
Dillon State Park
Dillon State Park is in Nashport, Ohio. Offering a campground with 195 sites, 20 equestrian sites, 29 family cottages and several cabins, you are sure to find the perfect getaway for you and your family! Pets are welcomed on all the trails and campsites, and in some of the cabins. Some of the amenities include showers, flush toilets, laundromat, and a dump station. When camping at Dillon you can expect some fun activities including horseback riding, disc golf, birdwatching, biking, swimming, and fishing. If you fancy being on the water, boating is permitted on the lake. There are four boat ramps for access to the lake. If hiking is more your speed, you can take in some beautiful scenery on the park's 9 miles of winding trails. There is also a game area, tennis, horseshoe, paddle ball, volleyball, basketball, shuffleboard, and a playground for your family to enjoy.
When planning your next family camping trip, look no further than Ohio State Parks. These are my four favorites but some other great choices include Buckeye Lake State Park, Tar Hollow State Park, Pine Lake State Park, Blue Rock State Park, and Adams Lake State Park. Wherever you end up going, take full advantage of what the great outdoors has to offer. Happy camping!