The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District has completed a $7.3 million overhaul of Charles Mill Beach Campground in Ohio, capped by the opening of a new destination playground that officials say is designed to draw families and strengthen the connection between visitors and the lake.
The project, which took roughly two and a half years from design to completion, added full-hookup RV campsites, bathhouses, sports courts and a pavilion overlooking Charles Mill Lake.
The district also introduced camper rentals through General RV this year, placing the units in some of the campground’s most scenic locations, according to an article by Richland Source.
“It’s all about connecting people to the outdoors,” said Pete Novotny, Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District Chief of Recreation, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 31.
The playground features multiple towers, climbing elements and slides that lead visitors toward the beach.
Underneath the artificial turf is a layer of condensed foam designed to create a softer landing surface for children.
“When we designed this campground, there was really intentionality about having those amazing viewpoints on either side of this peninsula throughout your stay,” Novotny said.
The district has now spent more than $350 million on upgrades across its parks since 2014.
Novotny said the Charles Mill project reflects a broader push to modernize campground amenities throughout the region.
“We’re doing things like this across our whole district,” Novotny said. “I wish I was a kid again to be enjoying this the way they are.”
For campground operators, the project illustrates how public park districts are investing heavily in family-friendly amenities — from destination playgrounds to full hookups — to compete for overnight guests in a crowded outdoor hospitality market.