Pike Lake State Park Campground Office

- Benton Township, OH 45612

For Ohio residents seeking an accessible and diverse outdoor experience in the picturesque southern region of our state, Pike Lake State Park Campground Office serves as your gateway to adventure. Nestled within the scenic wooded hills of southern Ohio, Pike Lake State Park offers a unique blend of tranquil natural beauty and a wide array of recreational opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned camper with an RV, prefer the simplicity of tent camping, or are looking for cabins for a more comfortable stay, this state park aims to provide a memorable escape for everyone.

Camping in Ohio's state parks is a time-honored tradition, allowing individuals and families to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature. It’s an opportunity to breathe fresh air, explore wooded trails, enjoy water activities, and gather around a campfire under the stars. Pike Lake State Park is particularly appealing due to its comprehensive offerings, which extend beyond just camping. The presence of a campground office suggests a well-managed facility dedicated to assisting campers and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit, making it a reliable choice for your next outdoor excursion.

While specific individual customer reviews for "Pike Lake State Park Campground Office" as a standalone entity are not readily available, reviews for Pike Lake State Park Campground itself provide valuable insights. Campers describe it as a "quiet" and "beautiful quiet park tucked away far from civilization" in the fall, with trees starting to turn. It's noted for being a "small, easy walk-able park" with "many hiking trails." Reviews mention "clean restrooms and shower houses," and some appreciate the "super quiet and relaxing" atmosphere, especially mid-week. One reviewer highlights "all roads leading here are hilly and curvy, just take your time and you'll be fine!" These testimonials collectively paint a picture of a well-maintained, serene, and activity-rich state park campground, ideal for a variety of outdoor preferences.

Pike Lake State Park Campground Office is located in Benton Township, OH 45612, USA. This places the park and its campground office within Pike County, in the heart of southern Ohio's Appalachian foothills. The area is renowned for its rolling wooded terrain, offering a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. The park is situated approximately five miles south of the village of Bainbridge, providing a sense of seclusion while remaining accessible to local amenities.

Access to Pike Lake State Park is generally straightforward for Ohio residents. While some roads leading to the park can be "hilly and curvy" as noted by a reviewer, they are typically well-maintained. Travelers from northern areas of Ohio might use routes like US-23 to connect to the state routes leading to the park. The address suggests a setting that, while deeply natural, is part of a managed state park system, implying good infrastructure for vehicle access and parking. The campground itself is located on the south side of the 13-acre Pike Lake, enhancing the natural setting. This combination of a tranquil, natural environment with reasonable accessibility makes Pike Lake State Park an attractive destination for Ohioans seeking an outdoor escape.

• 79 Electric Campsites: Pike Lake State Park offers 79 electric campsites, accommodating RVs up to 33 feet in length and providing essential power for various camping needs. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Tent-Only Sites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, tent-only sites are also available.
• Modern Restrooms and Shower Houses: The campground features clean restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers, some of which have been recently renovated, ensuring a comfortable stay for campers.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.
• Potable Water Access: Drinking water collection points are located throughout the campground.
• Camp Store: A camp store is available, offering essential camping supplies like firewood and ice, and sometimes loans sporting equipment to campers.
• Cabin Rentals: In addition to campsites, Pike Lake State Park offers various cabin options, including 13 standard cottages (sleeping 4-6, summer only) and 12 family cottages (sleeping 6, open year-round with heat/AC), many fully furnished with kitchens and baths. Pets are permitted in designated cabins.
• Group Camp: A designated group camp site is available for tent camping, accommodating up to 60 guests, equipped with tables and fire rings.

• 13-Acre Pike Lake: The central feature of the park, offering opportunities for swimming at a sandy beach (unsupervised), fishing (largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, crappie), and boating (electric motors up to 4.5 horsepower; rowboats, pedal boats, and canoes available for rent).
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Five hiking trails are available, including the 1.2-mile Mitchell Ridge Trail which connects to the Buckeye Trail, and the half-mile CCC Nature Trail, catering to various fitness levels. Trails wind through dense forests and hilly terrain.
• Disc Golf Course: An 18-hole disc golf course provides a popular recreational activity within the park.
• Recreational Courts: Includes basketball courts and horseshoe pits in day-use areas.
• Playgrounds: Dedicated playgrounds offer fun for younger visitors.
• Nature Center: Offers educational programs during the summer months, providing insights into the park's flora and fauna.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Ten scenic picnic areas with grills and tables are available, plus two reservable shelters that can accommodate up to 80 people each, ideal for day use or gatherings.
• Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching: The park's diverse habitats support white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, gray squirrels, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
• Stargazing Opportunities: The remote location and lack of significant light pollution make Pike Lake State Park a good spot for stargazing.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, allowing for camping in all seasons, though some amenities may be seasonal.

As part of the Ohio State Park system, Pike Lake State Park Campground Office's promotions and special offers are typically managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). While direct "Pike Lake Campground Office" specific deals are not often advertised independently, Ohio residents can take advantage of various statewide camping discounts and programs that apply to state park campgrounds:

• Golden Buckeye Card Discount: Ohio residents aged 60 and over, with a valid Golden Buckeye Card, are eligible for a 50% discount on camping fees Sunday through Thursday, and a 10% discount on Friday and Saturday.
• Active/Retired Military Discount: A 10% discount on all overnight facilities is offered every night of the week for active duty and retired military service members.
• Disabled Veteran and Former Prisoner of War Free Camping Pass Program: Eligible Ohio residents can apply for a pass that waives camping fees.
• Seasonal and Mid-Week Rates: Check the ODNR online reservation system for potential lower rates during off-peak seasons (e.g., late fall, winter) or for weekday stays, which are often more affordable than weekend rates.
• Ohio State Parks Rewards Program: While not a direct discount, frequent visitors may benefit from loyalty programs if offered by ODNR.

For the most current and accurate information on any available promotions or specific booking details for Pike Lake State Park Campground, Ohio residents should visit the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website for Pike Lake State Park, or utilize their online camping reservation system. This is the best resource for up-to-date pricing, availability, and any special offers that may apply to your desired stay.

• Address: Benton Township, OH 45612, USA

While a specific phone number for the "Pike Lake State Park Campground Office" wasn't directly provided in the initial information, for reservations, inquiries about site availability, specific amenities, or any other questions regarding camping at Pike Lake State Park, the most reliable method is to contact the main park office or the Ohio State Parks central reservation line. A common phone number for Ohio State Park general inquiries and reservations is (866) 644-6727. Additionally, you can find detailed information and make reservations directly through the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website for Pike Lake State Park. This ensures you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information to plan your outdoor adventure.

For Ohio residents, Pike Lake State Park Campground offers an outstanding and highly suitable option for a memorable outdoor experience. Its location in the scenic wooded hills of southern Ohio provides a refreshing escape from urban life, yet it remains reasonably accessible from various parts of the state. This balance of natural seclusion and convenient travel makes it an ideal destination for quick weekend getaways or more extended vacations.

The park's diverse range of amenities and activities ensures that there's something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you enjoy the tranquility of fishing on the lake, the exhilaration of hiking rugged trails, the family fun of disc golf and playgrounds, or simply relaxing by a campfire, Pike Lake has it all. The availability of electric campsites, tent sites, and comfortable cabins caters to a wide array of preferences and budgets, making it a flexible choice for various camping styles.

Furthermore, as an Ohio State Park, visitors benefit from the well-maintained facilities, professional management, and commitment to preserving natural beauty that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources provides. By choosing Pike Lake State Park, Ohioans not only gain access to a high-quality outdoor recreation area but also support the continued conservation efforts within their home state. It's an opportunity to create lasting memories, enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nature, and strengthen connections with family and friends, all within the beautiful landscapes that Ohio proudly offers.

Pike Lake State Park Campground Office

Benton Township, OH 45612, USA