The Ohio Campground Owners Association is encouraging travelers to expand their camping plans this summer by exploring new experiences available at privately owned campgrounds across the state.
In a message aimed at campers planning seasonal getaways, the association highlighted the variety of recreational opportunities available at Ohio’s privately owned campgrounds, noting that many locations offer unique attractions and activities that may be unfamiliar even to frequent campers.
The association suggested that campers take a more “intentional” approach when planning trips by identifying experiences they have not yet tried, such as waterfront camping, wooded retreats, family-oriented resorts, fishing-focused getaways or visits to new regions of the state.
According to the association, Ohio is home to a diverse range of privately owned campgrounds, many of which provide distinct amenities and outdoor experiences. Some destinations could become new favorites for travelers willing to venture beyond their usual camping locations.
Among the experiences highlighted was scuba diving at campground properties. The association noted that certain Ohio campgrounds offer on-site scuba diving opportunities, allowing certified divers or those pursuing certification to participate without traveling to a separate location.
Water-based recreation also remains a key attraction at many campgrounds. The association pointed to waterslides and other aquatic amenities as popular features that can enhance camping trips for families, particularly those traveling with children.
For younger campers, gem mining was identified as another activity available at some campgrounds. The experience allows children to dig and sift for gems and take home items they discover during the activity.
Several campgrounds also offer direct access to rivers and provide equipment rentals for kayaking, canoeing and tubing. The association said these amenities can turn a traditional camping trip into a broader outdoor recreation experience.
In addition to outdoor activities, the organization highlighted organized programming commonly found at privately owned parks. Campers may find playgrounds, game rooms, crafts, bingo events and other scheduled activities designed for families.
The association also encouraged campers to try new campfire recipes during their trips, noting that Ohio Campers maintains a growing collection of recipes that visitors can review before traveling.
Cabin accommodations were identified as another option for campers seeking a different experience. The association said cabin rentals can appeal to recreational vehicle owners looking to try an alternative form of camping and may also attract friends or family members who do not typically consider themselves campers.