Campsite 19 (Electric Only)

Hey, fellow Ohioans! Are you craving an outdoor adventure that combines the tranquility of nature with the convenience of modern amenities? Look no further than Deer Creek State Park Campground, home to excellent options like Campsite 19 (Electric Only). Nestled in the heart of Ohio, just a short drive from Columbus, this sprawling state park offers a fantastic retreat for campers, boaters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.

As professional content writers specializing in local business SEO, we understand what makes an Ohio campground truly special for its local users. Deer Creek State Park provides a harmonious blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for families, solo adventurers, and groups looking to make lasting memories without traveling far from home.

Deer Creek State Park, encompassing a vast landscape around the 1,277-acre Deer Creek Lake, is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV. It's a vibrant recreational hub, known for its well-appointed resort, marina, and extensive facilities that cater to a wide range of interests. The park's central location in Ohio makes it incredibly accessible for residents across the state, offering a convenient escape into the natural world. From the serene waters of the lake, perfect for unlimited horsepower boating, to its renowned saugeye fishing below the dam, Deer Creek promises engaging experiences for water lovers.

Beyond the lake, the park's offerings extend to an 18-hole golf course, a network of scenic hiking trails, and even a dedicated dog park, ensuring there's something for everyone in your family, including your furry friends. In summer, the park comes alive with nature programming, while winter transforms it into a wonderland for snowmobiling and ice fishing, proving that Deer Creek is a year-round destination. The campground itself is often praised for its "nice pads," and "most are very level," making for easy setup. It's a "very nice family park, full of kids, golf carts, dogs, bikes, scooters," creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for all.

Deer Creek State Park Campground, where you'll find options like Campsite 19 (Electric Only), is centrally located at 19 State Park Road, Mt Sterling, OH 43143, USA. This address places it conveniently in Pickaway County, just a stone's throw from the quaint village of Mt. Sterling.

Its strategic position makes it highly accessible for Ohio residents. For those coming from Columbus, it's a relatively short drive south, making it perfect for weekend getaways without extensive travel. The park is easily reached via major state routes, typically involving I-71 and then transitioning to state highways like US-22 or OH-207. The main entrance to the park and campground is clearly marked, guiding visitors directly to their desired areas.

The internal roads within Deer Creek State Park and the campground are generally paved, making it easy to navigate with RVs, trailers, and family vehicles. While some internal roads might be "very confusing and very tight for the amount of people there" during peak times, the overall accessibility to the park remains a significant advantage for locals. The proximity to Mt. Sterling also means that basic supplies can be found nearby, though for larger grocery hauls, it's advised to get them before arriving, as the immediate area can be a "vegetable/fresh food desert." This prime location balances natural seclusion with practical accessibility, allowing Ohioans more time to enjoy their outdoor experience.

Deer Creek State Park Campground is designed to cater to a variety of camping preferences, providing a range of services and amenities that enhance the outdoor experience. Campsite 19 is specifically designated as an "Electric Only" site, offering a convenient option for many campers.

• Campsites: The campground boasts a large selection of sites, including 202 Electric sites (like Campsite 19) and 30 Full-Hookup sites. All campsites generally include a picnic table and a fire ring. Pets are permitted on all sites, making it a pet-friendly destination for Ohio families.
• Electric Hookups: Campsite 19, as its name suggests, provides electric hookups (typically 30-amp and 50-amp options), allowing campers to power their RVs, charge devices, and run small appliances.
• Water Access: While electric-only sites don't have individual water hookups, potable water is available throughout the campground via spigots. Some campers note that "Fill up water at first spigot you find as some are easier to spot or closer to the road," indicating the presence of dispersed water access points. A central fresh water fill station might require pulling over briefly.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides clean and well-maintained shower houses and flush toilets. While some past reviews noted facilities were "a little less than desirable," recent information suggests continuous efforts to keep them clean and plentiful.
• Laundry Facilities: For longer stays or after messy outdoor adventures, laundry facilities are available at the campground.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RV campers to dispose of wastewater. This facility remains open even during the off-peak season.
• Camp Store: A seasonal camp store is available at the campground check-in station, offering essential camping supplies, snacks, and perhaps even disc golf equipment rentals.
• Playgrounds: The campground features two playgrounds, providing safe and fun areas for children to play, a highlight often mentioned by visiting families.
• Picnic Shelter: A picnic shelter is available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering a shaded spot for day use gatherings.
• Bicycle Rentals: Bicycles can be rented from the camp office, providing an easy way to explore the campground and nearby trails.
• Disc Golf: An 18-hole disc golf course (plus one practice hole) is located near the campground check-in station and is free to use, with equipment available for rent.

During the off-peak season (typically November 1 - March 31), some amenities may have limitations. For example, specific wash houses may remain open with exterior spigots for water fill-up, and full hookup sites might only offer sewer, not water. It's always best to check the Ohio DNR website for the most current seasonal information.

Deer Creek State Park, encompassing the campground, is rich with features and highlights that make it a premier outdoor destination in Ohio.

• Deer Creek Lake: The centerpiece of the park, this 1,277-acre lake offers unlimited horsepower boating. Two boat launch ramps provide easy access, and a fully-equipped marina offers fuel, boat rentals (pontoons, jet boats, fishing boats, kayaks), bait, tackle, and seasonal dock rentals. Boaters can even swim from their boats in a designated boat-swim area.
• Exceptional Fishing: Deer Creek Lake is famous for its early spring saugeye fishing below the dam. Anglers can also expect excellent catches of catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie, making it a favorite spot for Ohio fishing enthusiasts.
• Deer Creek Golf Course: An 18-hole championship golf course is situated within the park, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience amidst a beautiful pastoral setting. It features a pro shop and appeals to golfers who prefer to walk.
• Extensive Trail Systems: The park offers a variety of trails for hikers and nature lovers:
  • Hiking Trails: Numerous trails wind through woodlands, meadows, and along the shoreline, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife. Some reviews mention that "plenty of walking trails that can also hook up to horse trails."
  • Rolling Hills Trail: A 1.5-mile moderate trail.
  • Storybook Trail: A 0.5-mile easy trail near the campground, featuring pages from a children's book to blend outdoor exploration with reading, changing throughout the year. It also has a Free Little Library.
  • Snowmobile Trail: A 17-mile bridle trail is open for snowmobiling when conditions allow in winter.
• Swimming Beach: A 1,700-foot swimming beach with picnic tables and grills provides a refreshing spot for a swim during daylight hours. (Pets are not permitted on swimming beaches.)
• Nature Center: Located near the campground, the Deer Creek Nature Center offers displays, crafts, archery, and even animal enclosures. It also hosts nature programs during the summer months.
• Dog Park & Swim Area: A fenced dog park near the campground allows pets to frolic leash-free, and a separate fenced dog swim area is available for off-leash water play.
• Court Sports: The park offers various courts for competitive family fun, including volleyball, basketball, pickleball, and gaga ball courts in select day-use areas.
• Historical Harding Cabin: The park boasts a presidential connection with its historic Harding Cabin, offering a unique lakeside setting and accommodating groups.
• Winter Activities: Under proper conditions, visitors can enjoy sledding, ice fishing, and ice skating.

As part of the Ohio State Parks system, Deer Creek State Park Campground (including Campsite 19 Electric Only) operates under the standard state park reservation and pricing policies. While specific, flash-sale type promotions for individual campsites are not commonly advertised, there are general benefits and ways to find the best value:

• Ohio State Park Camping Rates: Rates for Electric-only sites typically vary by season. For instance, an electric site might be around $33 during the peak season (April 1 - October 31) and $29 during the off-peak season (November 1 - March 31). It's always best to check the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website for the most current rates and any potential changes.
• Winter Camping Benefits: During the off-peak season, while some amenities might be limited, rates are often reduced, providing a more economical option for cold-weather campers. Campers should review the "Winter Camping at Ohio State Parks" details on the ODNR website.
• Reservation Discounts (Potential): While not universally guaranteed, occasionally booking well in advance or looking for midweek stays can sometimes offer better availability or, in rare cases, specific deals that might be tied to state park system-wide promotions.
• Golf Course Promotions: The Deer Creek Golf Course (Eagle Trace) may offer its own specials, such as twilight rates, loyalty programs, or packages that include golf and lodging at the Deer Creek Lodge. Check the golf course's specific website or inquire at the pro shop.
• Group Rates: For large groups, inquire about potential group rates for primitive group camp sites, which can accommodate up to 100 people.
• Ohio DNR Website: The most reliable source for any official state park promotions or seasonal offers is the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website. Regularly checking their "Camping Rates" and "Winter Camping" pages is recommended before planning your trip.

It's important to remember that reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays, as sites can be booked up to six months in advance. Booking online or by calling the central reservation line is the most common method.

For reservations, inquiries about Campsite 19 (Electric Only) or other camping options, and general information about Deer Creek State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: Deer Creek State Park Campground, 19 State Park Road, Mt Sterling, OH 43143, USA
• Note: The official Ohio DNR website sometimes lists the full park address as 20635 State Park Road, Mt. Sterling, OH 43143. Both addresses point to the same location for the park.
• Camp Office Phone: (740) 869-3508
• Park Office Phone: (740) 869-3124
• Central Reservation Line: (866) 644-6727 (for online or phone reservations, up to six months in advance)
• Deer Creek Marina Phone: (740) 869-2100
• Golf Course Pro Shop Phone: (740) 869-3077

It's always a good idea to call ahead, especially for specific site availability or to confirm seasonal operating hours for park facilities.

For Ohio residents, Deer Creek State Park Campground, with its array of electric-only sites like Campsite 19, is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. Its compelling blend of convenient accessibility, diverse recreational opportunities, and well-maintained facilities makes it an ideal choice for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation right here in our home state.

One of the most significant advantages for locals is its central Ohio location. Being a relatively short drive from major metropolitan areas like Columbus means less time on the road and more time enjoying the great outdoors. This ease of access makes spontaneous trips or planned multi-day excursions entirely feasible, reducing travel stress and maximizing leisure time. You can easily escape the city hustle for the tranquility of nature, returning refreshed and re-energized.

The variety of activities available within Deer Creek State Park caters to almost every interest. Whether you're an avid angler hoping for a record saugeye catch, a boating enthusiast eager to explore the expansive lake, a golfer looking to play a championship course, or a family seeking leisurely hikes and playground fun, Deer Creek has it all. The fact that the campground itself offers amenities like electric hookups, clean shower houses, and laundry facilities means that even those new to camping or traveling with larger RVs can enjoy a comfortable experience. The ability to bring your pets along further solidifies its appeal for Ohio families who consider their furry companions part of the adventure.

Furthermore, the vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere consistently noted by visitors ("full of kids, golf carts, dogs, bikes, scooters") creates a welcoming environment. It’s a place where local families can connect, children can safely explore, and a sense of community often develops around campfires. The dedicated dog park and swim area are particularly attractive features for Ohio pet owners, ensuring their companions can also enjoy the outdoors.

Choosing Deer Creek State Park also means supporting our state's incredible park system, which works tirelessly to preserve natural spaces and provide high-quality recreational facilities for residents. It’s an investment in the beauty and accessibility of Ohio’s natural heritage. From the simple comfort of an electric-only site to the vast recreational opportunities on the lake and trails, Deer Creek State Park Campground truly offers a complete and fulfilling outdoor experience tailored for Ohioans. Make it your next go-to spot for memorable adventures!

Campsite 19 (Electric Only)

19 State Park Road, Mt Sterling, OH 43143, USA