Fresh air, wide-open spaces to run, marshmallows melting over an open fire and freedom from those mind-numbing electronic devices — these are just a few things to love about camping. Camping puts us back in touch with nature and offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect as a family. Thankfully, there are plenty of family-friendly campgrounds just a short drive away.
Let’s Go Camping! Here are eight of our favorite camp sites that offer a little something for everyone:
The scenic getaway: Hocking Hills State Park
19852 OH-664, Logan, OH
The campground at Hocking Hills has been named No. 1 in the U.S. by Trailblazer.com — and for good reason. Towering cliffs, waterfalls and deep, hemlock-shaded gorges serve as the backdrop for this campground that is packed with family-friendly amenities. Accommodations ranging from to camper cabins to primitive campsites make this the perfect spot for both beginner and seasoned campers.
Activities: Archery, basketball, boating, disc golf, fishing, hiking, horseshoe pits, volleyball, naturalist programs, swimming pool
Accommodations: Electric, non-electric and primitive campsites; modern cabins; camper cabins
The hidden gem: Stonelick State Park
2895 Lake Drive Pleasant Plain, OH 45162
More than 100 campsites are available year-round in this family-friendly and pet-friendly campground tucked away in the northeast corner of Clermont County.
Activities: Boating, fishing, hiking, cornhole, ADA playground swings, naturalist services, canoe/kayak rental, playground, beach access swimming, volleyball.
Accommodations: Cabins, electric campsites, non-electric
The urban paradise: Winton Woods
651 Lakeview Drive Cincinnati, OH 45231
Winton Woods Campground is set in a pine grove alongside Winton Woods Lake and is within easy walking distance of Winton Woods Harbor, and the boathouse, snack bar and wet playground. The campground is located approximately 20 minutes north of downtown Cincinnati and 30 minutes south of Kings Island amusement park.
Activities: Hiking trails, fishing, playground equipment, splash pad, boat rentals.
Accommodations: Full hook-up sites, electric campsites, cabins
The active family getaway: Hocking Hills KOA
29150 Pattor Rd., Logan, OH
Those looking for a camping experience with modern-day amenities will find what they are after at Hocking Hills KOA. This campground runs the gamut from RV sites with patios to traditional campsites. Activities range from a heated swimming pool to a gem mine. Amenities like on-site ice cream and pizza shops and an activity room offer the comforts of a resort while maintaining the feel of the great outdoors. Even Fido can get in on the fun at the on-site dog park.
Activities: Activity room with board games, birding trail, corn hole, Gaga ball, restaurants, Hocking Hills Gem Mine and Gold Rush, dog park, pool (seasonal), Wi-Fi (shhh, don’t tell the kids!)
Accommodations: Full hook-up sites, water/electric, electric only and primitive campsites, camper cabins, deluxe cabins
The history lover’s dream: Big Bone Lick State Park
3380 Beaver Rd., Union, KY
Take a step back in time at this 813-acre park. A visitor’s center/museum features paleontological and archaeological exhibits that tell the rich history of the land. The highlight is the herd of bison that calls the park home (and, coincidentally, is found on Bison Trail). The on-site campground offers 62 campsites with utility hookups, grills, swimming pool and playground areas, making it ideal for family camping.
Activities: Bird watching, fishing, hiking, horseshoe pits, miniature golf, museum, playground, swimming pool
Accommodations: Electric campsites
The Bobcat fan: Miami Whitewater Forest
9001 Mt. Hope Road Harrison, OH 45030
For a quiet, scenic spot to relax and set up camp, visit Miami Whitewater Forest Campground. Located 30 minutes northwest of downtown Cincinnati, this campground is set back in a wooded area on more than 4,000 acres in Miami Whitewater Forest within walking distance to a harbor and 85-acre lake. Each of the 46 sites is equipped with 30 amp electric hookups, picnic table and fire ring. A newly renovated shower building, playground and dump station are also located within the campground.
Activities: Bird watching, fishing, hiking, adventure outpost, playground, harbor with rentals.
Accommodations: Electric campsites, dump station
The fisherman’s paradise: Caesar Creek
8570 E State Route 73 Waynesville, OH 45068
A large sprawling lake, sunny meadows, and a wooded ravine await visitors at Caesar Creek. Boaters will find all the amenities for a great day on the water, including a marina, several launch ramps, and dock rentals. A large campground provides campers with cozy sites and modern facilities. The Hopewell Day Lodge is a great venue for family gatherings.
Activities: Bird watching, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, archery, nature center.
Accommodations: Electric campsites, full hook up
The family get-togethers: East Fork Lake
2837 Old State Route 32 Batavia, OH 45103
East Fork State Park Campground is the largest around and is popular for large family gatherings. This big and mostly shady year-round campground features 416 comfortable sites in a lovely setting. All sites are leashed-pet friendly. Pets are not allowed in the shower house or on the sand areas of the campground beach.
Activities: Bird watching, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, camp store, playground, boat ramp, dam, beach.
Accommodations: Electric campsites, full hook up, equestrian sites.
