Dayton State Park offers a rustic camping experience amidst the natural beauty of the area. The park is easy to access, but can be a bit noisy due to its proximity to the highway. While the restrooms could use some updating, the park provides a great base for exploring the nearby casino, river, and historic old town Dayton. The campsites, though not paved, are suitable for tent camping. However, visitors should be aware of the presence of scorpions in the area. The park is also popular with transient individuals, which can make some feel uneasy. Despite these minor drawbacks, Dayton State Park is praised for its opportunities for gold panning, hiking, and rock hunting. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and abundant wildlife, including birds, ground squirrels, and lizards. The park's day-use fee of $5 makes it an affordable option for those looking to explore the region. While the park could benefit from some maintenance and funding, it remains a viable option for those seeking a rustic outdoor experience in the Dayton area.
Great for tent camping. No paved pads water or dump station. Restrooms not close to the campground. We did not stay. Just scoping it out for future reference.
October 2025
Beautiful place to have a wedding, the fall colors this time of year were really pretty.
September 2025
Easy park to get to and camp, but a little noisy with highway traffic. It is also a little sketchy as a lot of transient persons using the restrooms. Restrooms need a little updating. Easy walking distance to casino, river, and old town Dayton museum and town; the little town is very historic.
