Camping near Alum Creek State Park

100% (11 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Alum Creek State Park adventure.

Hikers, horses, and dogs are all welcome at Ohio’s largest inland beach.

Popular ways to camp

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Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Alum Creek State Park

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Alum Creek Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Alum Creek State Park

Explore camping beyond Alum Creek State ParkDiscover 200+ magical spots to camp in State Parks

Top-rated campgrounds near Alum Creek State Park

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The Lake at the Flying J Farm

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents250 acres · Johnstown, OH

Good news! Open fire ban lifted, camp fires are ok now! The Flying J Farm is 250 beautiful rolling acres including 100 acres of forest, 6-acre lake small pond, three streams, and numerous fields for crops and pastures with cows. The owner bought the farm in 1998 for his retirement from a faculty position at the Ohio State university. Two buildings, the farm house and old barn, are original dating back to 1831. These have been restored for current use. The mission of the farm is to restore health both in people though the products produced and in the land by farming in a sustainable way with no conventional chemicals, antibiotics, and use of GMO. We host many visitors including tours and events. An on farm market is available to visitors for purchase of our products including grass-fed beef, maple syrup, and fruits and vegetables. The cabin was built using wood from the farm. It has off-grid electricity meaning it is powered by batteries charged by solar panels. There is not sufficient power for devices with a heating element such as coffee makers and hair dryers. You may charge cell phones. For any other use, please check with the owner. Wild Life. There is an abundance of wildlife to be observed on the farm. Deer can be seen at dusk, raccoons can be seen going through your camp food at night (if you put it in your car), turkeys, hawks, vultures, rabbits, coyotes (heard screaming at night), frogs (especially heard at night), fish (jumping), and many song birds (my favorite, the bobolink, May and June only, nesting in the pastures).

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McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents230 acres · Frazeysburg, OH

McKee Farm is rich in memories and rich in history. It has been in the family for over 150 years and we were told that it was one of stopping points for the underground railroad. The 240 acre farm boasts a hidden cave, wide open fields, breathtaking forest land, and historic and rustic barns. Nestled at the edge of a wooded creek, Tullihas in the Trees treehouse boasts a beautiful sunset view with rolling hills. Tullihas combines comfort with the thrill of being immersed in nature. Built using recycled electric poles, Tullihas in the Trees has a deck perfect for hammocking, an interior dressed with windows so that guests can feel as if they are living amongst the trees, and two small lofts ideal for a restful night's sleep. Oxley in the Woods is our newest treehouse cabin. Nestled in the woods with a view of the sunset, the lovely A Frame is filled with lovely woodwork, vintage parquet flooring, and private wooded views. The deck is huge! We've had guests set up a tent on the deck beside the treehouse for fun! Swings, and a slide make the Oxley a fun adventure. The double bed in the loft and the two stacked single beds are comfortable and cozy. The McKee Farmhouse was built in the 1800s and is rich in memories. It's a rustic old house, with wood trim, hardwood floors, and plenty of imperfections that make it unique. You can sit on the porch and drink your coffee with a view of the barn and pastures, or cozy up in one of the house's four bedrooms and sleep in. The house is fully air conditioned and heated, has all the amenities of home, but takes you back to a simpler time. Our campsites are all set apart from one another in various locations on the 240 acre farm. Secluded and unique, each campsite has its own charm. We provide guests with a fire ring and a shovel, and some sites have a picnic table. Hiking trails are marked throughout the land. Guests can hike with views of horses, cows, wildlife, corn fields, large boulders, and rustic barns. The dirt roads provide great places to drive ATVs and four-wheelers. An Amish farm borders McKee Farm. Guests should know there is minimal cell service, however, this can offer a great opportunity to unplug. Tullihas in the Trees provides a perfect remote and rustic getaway for anyone. In October and November, access to hiking is limited.

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Secure & Safe Camping

9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Springfield, OH

20 acre property with large and small barn. Just off of Interstate 70 and Rt 41. (approximately 1/4 mi from highway). Paved parking areas on each side of the barn with available water and electricity hook up on each side of the barn. Wooded lot with 1 mile walking trail on property for guests and pets. NOTE: Maximum stay on north and south BARN SITES is 3 consecutive nights. UNLESS we discuss the situation prior to the dates. For the TITUS RD DISPERSED SITE, I have a 30 day limit (longer is possible if OK'd before stay) Note, we have a rear patio porch and deck on the back of the house that we use and is in sight. 6 dogs between daughter next door (South side of barn) and us but both have fenced in yards that we try to keep the dogs in when campers are present. Dogs are harmless but do bark when they do not know you... City of Springfield is less than three miles away. A Sheets and Loves Truckstop are 300 yards away with the Loves having a dump station. Next door to this property is a BP Station and Carryout. The Loves Truckstop has a Wendys, Subway, and dog park. Sheets also has a food court. All within walking distance. Great location as Columbus is 30 min to the east, Dayton is 25 min to the west. 13 min to I 675 and 20 min to Interstate 75 N/S. I 71 N/S Columbus is 35 min away in downtown Columbus... NOTE: Little over a quarter of a mile off of Interstate 70, and on a State Route, If looking for absolute silence and desolation, this is not for you. Back off of the road but all the sounds carry.....

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Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

2 sites · Lodging50 acres · Thornville, OH

Our farm has been in the family for over 50 years. My Cherokee Grandmother purchased the farm with the intention of giving each of her children property. We have been raising bison here since 2008. We chose the name Cherokee Valley to honor my heritage and the gift of this farm by my grandmother and mother. We created this tipi experience to share that gift with you! Enjoy a night in our spacious 22 foot tipi. We provide a comfortable queen platform bed for your convenience. You must provide sleeping bags, linens , blankets etc. The tipi can sleep up to 6 people, 2 on the queen bed we provide, with ample room for additional cots or air mattresses that you provide. We have cots available to rent as an add on. . You may also pitch additional tents or hang hammocks in the trees with room for up to 10 people in all. Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a working bison farm with bison, honeybees, chickens and peafowl. We are a certified Wildlife Habitat and Monarch Way Station. Enjoy our beautiful hiking trails through the rolling hills of our ranch. We have a plethora of bird species, butterflies and wildflowers to delight nature lovers. After hiking the trails you can splash around in the pristine creek that borders our property (we recommend water shoes). Take in a gorgeous sunset over our farm, enjoy a wood fired dinner cooked over the provided fire pit with grill. The sounds of hoot owls will lull you to sleep and when you wake, enjoy the stained glass glow through the beautiful tipi. We are close to several wineries, breweries and recreational areas (kayaking, canoeing, golfing, biking) as well as Legend Valley concert venue. We are a short drive to Buckeye Lake, Dillion Dam, and Hocking Hills. We have a selection of grass fed bison available in our on-site farm store.

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The land.

13 sites · RVs, Tents61 acres · Danville, OH

We've got plenty of paths going around the property if you'd like to walk around in a somewhat dense forest. Sometimes a blacksmith is working you may catch a show but there's metal, stone, and wood art to buy all the time. The spots you'll most likely be camping are well-maintained riverside spots or if you're up for a hike there are caves where you can camp in somewhat untouched wilderness besides some logging trails and old campsites from others.

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Camping with Unruly Goats

2 sites · RVs, Tents76 acres · Groveport, OH

Learn more about this land:Harrison Farm is a working livestock farm, with goats, sheep, chickens, rabbits, ducks, a horse, a donkey, and super friendly barn cats. We host many events, including yoga classes, tours, on-Farm dinners, and private parties. We are located thirty minutes from downtown Columbus, just outside of historic Canal Winchester, and only five minutes from BrewDog. The hills of southeastern Ohio are close by, with Lancaster only twenty minutes away, and just an hour’s drive to Hocking Hills or Tar Hollow. We welcome you to relax in solitude, or join us to learn more about farming.

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The Pleasant Valley Farm

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents53 acres · Lucas, OH

Pleasant Valley Farm was originally a working farm with a two-story farmhouse and traditional bank barn, built in the late 1800s. The massive timbers and joinery are constant reminders of the meticulous craftsmanship of the era. Jim and Kathy Grogg purchased Pleasant Valley Farm in 1994 and not only updated the house and barn, but also expanded the lake to its current 13 acres. The large 144-year-old, 2736-square-foot barn is now available for special occasions such as weddings, receptions, birthdays, and reunions.

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Green Plains Ranch

1 site · RV66 acres · South Charleston, OH

Located on 66 acres of rolling farmland and wooded country side. Near Yellow Springs, Cedarville College, John Bryan State Park, Clifton Gorge, and centrally located near Dayton, Springfield, and Columbus. Enjoy your morning coffee along with a beautiful view of Ohio farmland and the sounds of nature. This is a working farm. We grow forage crops (alfalfa, clover, grass hay), raise Correinte cattle and bison (the bison are located at a remote farm), and manage and selectively harvest timber. Guests may explore the farm, bird watch, enjoy catch-and-release fishing in a private one-acre pond, or sit by the fire. The Ohio to Erie Trail is 1/4” mile from the farm entrance. You can preorder bison or beef to grill on your campfire. www.greenplainsbison.com Sarah and I look forward to hosting you. P.S. We have a two-night minimum on Weekends (Friday and Saturday nights)

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Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Marengo, OH

Grins & Pickin's CampFarm was created to share the outdoors with others. Growing food & flowers, camping & hiking is what we like to do. And we like sharing these activities. Our family oriented outdoor recreation facility is open on weekends only and offers primitive camping, PYO produce during the growing season, homesteading activities & nature-based programs. The peaceful 20-acre country farm has food gardens, a frog habitat pool, a barnyard for the chickens & ducks, a bluegill fishin' pond, a pollinator maze, a prairie garden, and an outdoor stage. After crossing a winding creek into 10 acres of woods, you may see deer, turkey, fox, coyote, mink, eagles & barred owls. In early spring, the peepers are peeping, wildflowers are abundant & the vernal pools welcome the wood frogs, salamanders and fairy shrimp. Summer brings on the bullfrogs, butterflies, dragonflies and fireflys. Fall is a great time to pull grapevine to make wreaths & to build stick forts in the woods. We cater to the tent camper so that we can hear frogs & owls instead of generators. But, there is an RV section up front for those with quiet generators with several feet of gravel under the grass to hold the weight of your camper. We charge by the carload & there are different rates for driving back toward the woods for camping depending on the number of wheels & the weight of your vehicle (a factor on the wear & tear on the land). We believe in going outside to play, growing & eating fresh food, strengthening family bonds and promoting the awareness of our natural resources. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING: 1) The speed limit is 5 mph as soon as you enter the property (kids & dogs are quick to dart in front of you). 2) As a state registered campground, it is mandatory that you check in at the house to fill out a Registration Form before heading to your campsite. 3) No glass allowed anywhere on the property (we don't want our feet or paws cut open and can do without flat tires). 4) Children under 18 must be attended to at all times for their safety (the frog pool is 10' deep, the pond is 8-10' deep depending on rains, and the creek can turn into a churning river). Thank you!

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Little Darby Outdoors

5 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Galloway, OH

This is 13 acres in the Little Darby river valley. Lots of space to choose from tents to RVs and campers. Self contained campers only. Flush toilets and shower are available in the agricultural building. Clean and comfortable with country charm. Clean water is available. Free firewood! Free phone and bicycle charging station. Three miles to McDonalds and local businesses. Surrounded by the Columbus Metro Park and 2 miles to the Ohio to Erie bicycle trail. Bring your own kayak and enjoy the beauty of the Little Darby creek.

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Fairhaven

5 sites · Tents5 acres · Springfield, OH

This 5 acre property is loaded with activities! The stocked pond (catch and release) is a great place to teach your kids how to fish. You don't have to be an experienced fisherman to catch a fish in this pond! Swimming, kayaking, paddle boat, cornhole, small beach area for the little ones, and 2 acres of wooded trails for those who enjoy a peaceful walk. Wildlife is abundant and they prefer to be left alone. Please stay on the trails to preserve all vegetation. If you see a fawn or other babies, please do not touch these animals. Momma will be back! If you see one in distress, please contact the host. The community area at the gazebo offers a charcoal grill (charcoal available for purchase), seating, electric outlets, and water. Please be considerate to other guest while using this area. Trash receptacles are available at different areas on the property. Fresh eggs and produce will be available when in season. Please ask if you are interested. Campsites are located in the woods and are primitive. Sites include picnic table, fire pit, and trash can. Campers have access to a bathroom with a shower that is located in the basement of the cabin. All campers need to check-in with the on-site owners. Parking is not available at your site. All gear can be transported with a golf cart. Fairhaven - Cabin on the Pond can also be rented on the Airbnb website. Local attractions Springfield: Mad River canoeing/tubing/kayaking, Buck Creek State Park, ECO Sports Corridor Whitewater Park, Frank Lloyd Wright's Westcott House, Mad River Gorge, Cedar Bog Nature Preserve, George Rogers Clark Park - which has nearly 240 acres of hiking trails and license-free fishing. Wittenberg is a Lutheran-affiliated liberal arts college with a national reputation for excellent academic standards, a strong athletic tradition, and is widely known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Mother Stewarts Brewing is located downtown as well as many great restaurants and shops. Yellow Springs: With a bike trail that is part of a 360 mile paved system in southwest Ohio and 2000 acres of preserved woodland to the east, Yellow Springs is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore over fifty small locally owned boutiques featuring one of a kind merchandise from handcrafted pottery to custom designed jewelry to designer shoes. A truly unique shopping experience. Urbana: Nice small town with lots of shops and restaurants in the square. Freshwater Farms of Ohio is the largest indoor fish hatchery in the state of Ohio. Pick up some trout and check out the sturgeon petting zoo with the kiddos! Dayton: It’s home to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, with a vast collection of aircraft from early 1900s planes to a space shuttle exhibit. Carillon Historical Park contains a Wright Brothers plane, 19th-century buildings and antique trains. Catch a Dayton Dragons baseball game downtown! 2nd Street Market has local growers, bakers, culinary specialists, and artisans fill this charming historic freight house.

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GloryField Hospitality Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · South Charleston, OH

GloryField Hospitality Farm is a 60 acre working farm and vacation destination. There are 40 acres of farmed land, and the barn is being fitted out for livestock. During your stay you will have access to over a 2 mile of maintained walking trails around fields, through wooded areas, and regulated prairie wetland. Relax and enjoy the view at your camper, out at the 1 acre catch and release pond, or hike out to mowed areas for stargazing. There are other guests staying on the farm and the host lives in the barn with her 2 golden doodles but everything is over 100ft apart.

The best camping near Alum Creek State Park guide

Overview

About

More than 3,000 feet of sandy beachfront stretches along the west shore of Alan Creek Reservoir, just 15 minutes from downtown Delaware. Hit the water to swim, sail, or waterski; seek out quiet coves to canoe, kayak, or fish; or venture inland to hike, bike, or horseback ride through the maple forests. Campers can head to the waterfront Alum Creek Campground, where there’s ample space to pitch your tent, park your RV, or even tether your horse—some sites also come with lake views. Bringing your dog? The four-acre lakeside dog park means your pup can cool off with a swim too.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of 297 campsites (including electric and full hookup sites, and eight cabins) via the Reserve Ohio website.
Campsite reservations open from 7am, six months in advance, and all sites can be reserved online.
Campsites can book up fast, so book as early as possible, especially if visiting during peak season or on holiday weekends. Plan six months ahead for cabin bookings.

When to go

Thanks to its close proximity to the city, Alum Creek State Park draws visitors year-round. Peak season runs from April through October, when advance bookings are essential, while winter activities such as ice fishing and snowmobiling attract a steady stream of cold-season campers. Come in summer to cool off at the lake or in fall when the woodland trails are aglow with autumnal foliage.

Know before you go

Alum Creek State Park is about a 30-minute drive north of Columbus.
There are no entrance fees for Ohio State parks, but camping and reservation fees apply. Ohio fishing licenses are also required.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, seasonal boat rental, and a swimming beach with changing area, showers, volleyball court, and a concession stand. Campers can also benefit from free wifi.
There is unlimited horsepower at the lake, and you can bring your own boats and watercraft. Swimming is permitted only in designated areas

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11 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2021

I stayed only one night but it was definitely nice and well managed. It has a family type atmosphere with play grounds and activities for children. I was there just as a place to rest after mountain biking and I live near Akron. there is water, bathrooms and showers too.