The Pines

Hello, fellow Buckeyes! When you picture your ideal camping trip, what comes to mind? Is it a bustling resort with endless activities, or do you gravitate towards a more serene, welcoming, and community-focused atmosphere? If your idea of a perfect escape leans towards peace, quiet, and a place where you feel genuinely at home among fellow campers, then you’ll want to know about The Pines in Kensington, Ohio. Despite its name, you might not find a forest of pine trees, but what you will discover is a charming, well-loved campground that prioritizes a tranquil experience and a friendly vibe that keeps visitors coming back.

The Pines, located in the scenic countryside of Kensington, offers a delightful retreat for those seeking a more relaxed camping experience. While it may not be filled with actual pine trees, it has cultivated a reputation for being a "small but cute" and incredibly welcoming park. What truly sets The Pines apart, based on consistent customer feedback, is the exceptional friendliness and accommodation of its owners and staff. They are lauded for being approachable, communicative, and making every guest feel very welcome, even engaging patiently with children. This personal touch fosters a strong sense of community, with many campers noting how easy it is to feel "tucked in amongst the trees and nature," despite being a smaller park. It's a place where cleanliness, spacious sites, and the genuine hospitality of the people running it create a truly enjoyable and memorable stay. Whether you're looking for a peaceful overnight stop or a longer retreat, The Pines offers a unique charm that prioritizes comfort and community over flashy amenities.

The Pines is situated at 7150 Meter Rd NE, Kensington, OH 44427, USA. This location places it in a peaceful, rural area of eastern Ohio, providing a true escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Kensington itself is a small, charming community, surrounded by the gentle rolling landscapes characteristic of this part of the state.

For Ohioans, its accessibility is quite favorable. If you're coming from major population centers like Cleveland or Akron, The Pines is typically about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive south. From Columbus, the journey is generally around 2.5 to 3 hours east. Even for those from Cincinnati, it’s a manageable drive of approximately 4 to 4.5 hours northeast. While offering a tranquil, "tucked in" feeling, The Pines is not entirely isolated. Nearby towns like Kensington or even larger ones such as Salem or Alliance (both roughly 20-30 minutes away) would provide access to grocery stores, gas stations, and other essential services, ensuring you have everything you need for your stay. The drive to the campground allows you to gradually unwind as you pass through Ohio's picturesque countryside, setting the perfect tone for a relaxing camping experience away from the busy highways.

The Pines is known for providing a comfortable and friendly camping experience, focusing on well-maintained essentials and a welcoming atmosphere. While not an exhaustive list, based on public information and guest reviews, here are some of the services offered:

• RV Sites: The campground offers sites suitable for RVs, including spacious spots that can accommodate large vehicles. Reviews indicate good hookup options, though specific amp services (30/50 amp) aren't detailed, they are standard for RV parks.
• Tent Sites: Tent camping options are available for those who prefer a more traditional outdoor experience.
• Cabin Rentals: Cozy and updated cabins are available, described as "perfect" for guests, including families. Some sources mention poolside cabins, suggesting proximity to recreational facilities.
• Yurt Rentals: For a unique glamping experience, newly renovated yurts are available, equipped with AC and designed to comfortably sleep up to four guests.
• Clean Restrooms & Hot Showers: Consistently highlighted by guests as "very clean" and "great showers," which is a crucial amenity for any campground.
• Camp Store/Office: A central point for assistance, forgotten supplies, cold drinks, firewood, and ice. They are also known for selling delightful homemade treats like English toffee, cookies, and apple fritters intermittently.
• Free Wi-Fi: Available to help guests stay connected during their stay.
• Laundry Facilities: Essential for longer stays or larger groups.
• Dump Station: For RV waste disposal.
• LP Gas: Propane is available for purchase.
• Recreation Hall/Meeting Room: A facility for gatherings, games, and potentially events, described as air-conditioned and with a kitchen.
• Community Fire Pit & Gazebo: A central spot for campers to gather, socialize, and enjoy campfires together.

The Pines distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that contribute to its appealing, community-oriented atmosphere:

• Exceptional Owner & Staff Hospitality: This is consistently the top highlight. Owners and staff (such as Robin and Dennis, as mentioned in one review) are repeatedly described as "incredibly friendly, understanding, and accommodating." Their approachable nature and willingness to engage with guests, including children, create a truly welcoming and personal experience.
• Cleanliness & Well-Maintained Facilities: Guests frequently commend the "super clean facilities," including bathhouses and showers, and note that the grounds are always kept clean, manicured, and safe.
• Spacious Sites: Despite being a "smaller park," the sites are described as "very spacious," offering a sense of privacy and comfort amongst the natural setting.
• Homemade Treats & Goodies: A unique and delightful highlight mentioned by visitors is the availability of homemade treats like English toffee, cookies, and apple fritters, adding a special touch to the stay.
• Community-Focused Amenities: The presence of a wonderful gazebo with a community fire pit and a meeting hall encourages social interaction and communal gatherings among campers, fostering a friendly atmosphere.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With multiple play areas for children, scheduled weekend activities (like arts and crafts), and an overall welcoming environment for little ones, it's clear the campground caters to families.
• Versatile Accommodation Options: Offering not just RV and tent sites but also updated cabins and unique yurts with amenities like AC and comfortable beds, ensures there's a suitable option for various preferences.
• Peaceful, Natural Setting: Guests appreciate feeling "tucked in amongst the trees and nature," providing a quiet rustic atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
• Proximity to Shopping & Entertainment: While offering a natural escape, the campground is noted to be in close proximity to shopping and entertainment, providing convenient access to necessities and local attractions.

While explicit, broadly advertised promotions for The Pines are not extensively detailed in the provided information, campgrounds of this nature often offer value through consistent pricing or more personalized deals. Based on common industry practices and the characteristics described:

• Affordable Pricing: The focus on providing a great experience at a reasonable cost is often a standing "promotion" in itself for campgrounds like The Pines. While not specifically mentioned in the recent reviews for this location, affordability is often implied by a "no-frills" or community-focused approach.
• Weekly/Monthly Rates: For those looking for extended stays, campgrounds typically offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly bookings compared to nightly rates. Given the mention of the park being suitable for "living space" for some campers, longer-term options are likely available.
• Return Customer Incentives: The strong emphasis on friendly owners and repeat visits suggests that loyal campers might receive unadvertised perks or preferential booking.
• Seasonal Specials: It's common for campgrounds to have different pricing or special offers during off-peak seasons (e.g., spring or fall) compared to the busy summer months.
• Event-Related Offers: If they host specific events (like a class reunion mentioned in a review), there might be special group rates or packages associated with those bookings.

The most reliable way to inquire about any current promotions, special offers, or extended-stay discounts would be to contact The Pines directly. Their friendly and communicative staff would be best equipped to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information for your specific needs.

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or simply learn more about The Pines in Kensington, Ohio, you can reach out using the following contact details:

Address: 7150 Meter Rd NE, Kensington, OH 44427, USA

Phone: (330) 602-4000

Mobile Phone: +1 330-602-4000

Given the strong emphasis on the friendly and accommodating nature of the owners and staff, a direct phone call is likely the most effective way to get your questions answered and to make your booking. They are known for their personal touch and helpfulness.

For us Ohioans, The Pines in Kensington offers a truly suitable and appealing escape, especially for those who cherish a quiet, friendly, and community-oriented camping experience. Its location in the serene, rural landscape of eastern Ohio means you can easily decompress from the stresses of daily life without having to travel across the entire state. It’s accessible from major Ohio cities, making it a convenient choice for weekend getaways or longer, more leisurely stays.

What truly makes The Pines a gem for locals is the genuine hospitality of its owners and staff. This personal touch creates a welcoming atmosphere where you feel like more than just a customer; you feel like part of a friendly camping community. The combination of clean, spacious sites, the option of comfortable cabins or unique yurts, and the overall peaceful environment ensures a relaxing experience. Whether you're looking to unwind by a community campfire, engage in friendly activities, or simply enjoy the quiet natural surroundings, The Pines offers an authentic and highly enjoyable Ohio camping experience that emphasizes comfort, value, and true Midwestern warmth. It's a place where you can make new friends, revisit old memories, and find that perfect sense of tranquility right here at home.

The Pines

7150 Meter Rd NE, Kensington, OH 44427, USA