Best Camping Near Columbus, OH

Discover the best camping spots near Columbus, OH with KOA: family-friendly, scenic, and adventure-filled getaways.

13

Nearby Campgrounds

1,397

Nearby Camp Sites

4.7

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Columbus, Ohio

13 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Columbus, Ohio

  • Cabela's - Located in Columbus, OH, this store is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a wide range of recreational clothing, footwear, and supplies for camping, hunting, and fishing. The 80,000-square-foot showroom is filled with products and exhibits.

  • Easton Town Center - A premier shopping destination in Columbus with over 200 entertainment, dining, and shopping venues. It's perfect for spending the day exploring new clothing stores and house decor shops.

  • Polaris Fashion Place - This shopping center features over 170 local and national retail stores along with entertainment options. It also has a KidX Club where children can enjoy special events that foster learning and growth.

  • Glass Rooster Cannery - Situated in Sunbury, OH (about 20 miles from Columbus), this sustainable farm offers tours, lunches, and classes on jam making, fermentation, dehydration, and soap making.

  • Franklin Park Conservatory And Botanical Gardens - Located in Columbus itself; it's an ideal spot for a relaxing day surrounded by beautiful botanical gardens. The conservatory houses multiple art collections across various mediums like glass and paint.

  • Olentangy Indian Caverns - Found in Delaware (approximately 20 miles from Columbus), these caverns offer cave tours along with activities like mini-golfing or gem mining. There's also a petting zoo to enjoy.

  • Center Of Science And Industry (COSI) - A science center located in downtown Columbus that provides hands-on learning experiences across diverse exhibits related to science topics such as dinosaurs or space exploration.

  • Ye Olde Mill - In Utica (around 40 miles from Columbus), this location is home to Velvet Ice Cream's corporate offices as well as Ohio’s only ice cream museum where you can see antique ice cream tools used historically while enjoying some delicious ice cream.

Ways to camp near Columbus, Ohio

RV Camping
Visit

RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
Visit

Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
Visit

Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
Visit

Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Licking County Parks offer a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views for visitors to enjoy.

Groovy Plants Ranch is a family-owned greenhouse that offers unique and intriguing botanical oddities from around the world.

You can find bike rentals available at various locations along the Buckeye Trail, which is perfect for trail riding enthusiasts.

Splatterpark Paintball offers an exciting paintball experience with various fields and game scenarios.

Cork & Tap Excursions provide wine tasting tours that explore local wineries and breweries in the area.

The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course hosts various car racing events throughout the year, offering thrilling experiences for motorsport fans.

Plan a trip to Columbus, Ohio

Planning a camping trip to Columbus, OH, promises an adventure filled with diverse attractions and natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor lifestyle, staying at one of the nearby KOA campgrounds will enhance your experience.

Best Time to Visit

Columbus is a year-round destination, but spring and fall are particularly delightful. The weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring local attractions.

Weather Expectations

  • Spring: Expect blooming flowers and moderate temperatures.
  • Summer: Warm days ideal for water activities; pack light clothing.
  • Fall: Crisp air with stunning foliage; bring layers for cooler evenings.
  • Winter: Cold with occasional snow; ensure you have warm gear if visiting during this season.

What to Pack

  1. Clothing:

    • Layered outfits for fluctuating temperatures.
    • Comfortable hiking shoes.
    • Rain gear just in case of unexpected showers.

  2. Camping Gear:

    • Tent or RV essentials (KOA sites are well-equipped).
    • Cooking supplies if you plan on preparing meals outdoors.

  3. Extras:

    • Sunscreen and insect repellent.
    • A camera or smartphone for capturing memories.

Nearby KOA Campgrounds

  1. Buckeye Lake / Columbus East KOA Holiday: Enjoy fishing or boating on Buckeye Lake after setting up camp at this family-friendly site.

  2. Hocking Hills KOA Holiday: Perfect for nature lovers, offering access to scenic trails through forests and waterfalls in Hocking Hills State Park.

  3. Sunbury / Columbus North KOA Holiday: Close to shopping outlets and bike trails in Centerburg—ideal for those who want a mix of relaxation and activity.

  4. Mt. Gilead KOA Holiday: A serene spot near historical sites like the Morrow County Historical Society—great for history buffs!

Planning Tips

  • Book your campsite early during peak seasons (spring/fall) as spots fill up quickly.
  • Check local event calendars; festivals can add extra fun but also mean busier campgrounds.
  • Ensure your vehicle is road-ready if you're driving an RV—check tires, lights, etc., before departure.

With these tips in mind, you're set to enjoy all that Columbus has to offer while staying comfortably at one of its welcoming KOA campgrounds! Happy camping!

Nearby Locations

Blog posts related to camping near Columbus, Ohio

Blog Post Image
The Complete Guide to Visiting National Parks | KOA Camping Blog May 03, 2024
Blog Post Image
11 Must-Read Books for RVers | KOA Camping Blog November 11, 2024
View Blog
Family Eating Outside of Airstream
KOA Rewards Logo

Save money when camping near Columbus, Ohio with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Learn More & Purchase

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Columbus, Ohio, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.

Find Your KOA Stay