Camping in Ohio

Ohio’s lake beaches, forested hills, and winding rivers set the stage for outdoor adventure.

97% (13302 reviews)
97% (13302 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ohio

Star Hosts in Ohio

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in Ohio

99%
(1014)

Fruitdale Farm

9 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Bainbridge, OH
Come stay at our little sustainable farmstead amid the beautiful rolling hills of southern Ohio! Our peaceful 20 acres has a good mix of woods, wild meadows and maintained cleared areas as well as a small pond, all of which can be explored via our nature trail. Enjoy the sounds of nature and an incredible night sky. Farm fresh eggs and fresh produce are available for purchase during the growing season and firewood is available all year round. There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved. Great hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, swimming, and disc-golfing opportunities just a few miles away at Paint Creek State Park and the Highland Nature Sanctuary. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. This area is home to an impressive network of ancient earthworks including the world famous Serpent Mound. Our accommodations range from primitive tent-camping to "glamping" in one of our tiny off-grid cabins. The sites are spaced out for privacy and each site offers a private picnic table and fire pit. There are two shared privies/outhouses which have basic composting toilets. A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN ONLY. POINTS OF INTEREST in the area:   The HIGHLANDS NATURE SANCTUARY (7 miles away), previously called "7 Caves"  is highly recommended for some beautiful hiking.  There is a small museum (The Appalachian Forest Museum) at the main trailhead by the parking area... the folks there can direct you to a couple of other great trails nearby if you're interested in further hiking.  NOTE: Most of the trails within the sanctuary are not open to dogs, however, there are a couple of dog-friendly trails (inquire at the museum).   Museum is closed for the winter (Nov-March). **Recommended trails: Valley of the Ancients (1/2mile, start at museum) and the Barrett's Rim Trail (2.5 mile loop) and the Kamelands Trail, which are both accessible during the pandemic.   AMISH BAKERY (Country Crust Bakery) & MARKET (JRs General Store)* on 41 South in Bainbridge (15-20min away): The bakery is a great lunch stop for a fresh, soft Pretzel Bun sandwich (delicious) and to load up on fresh baked goods (the apple fritter is my fave!). The market, which is almost right across from the bakery, is also worth checking out... delicious deli sandwiches and great deals on spices, cheeses, pickles, jams, bulk foods, produce, etc. Watch out for horse & buggy traffic... and bicycles! *The Amish accept cash or check only and are closed on Sunday. In the teeny town of BAINBRIDGE (10-15min away): There are some nice antique/primitive shops around; in particular, Ancient Valley Mercantile has a nice selection of antiques as well as local art, gifts, gourmet coffees, local honey, etc. There's a wonderful little cafe (634 Coffee + Cafe, inside the historic Paxton Theater) that offers coffee drinks, pastries, soups and sandwiches. Stop into Pap's Hilltop Honey and Distillery, where you can purchase and sample a variety of moonshine flavors and cocktails. The Paxton Restaurant has good home cooked meals and a variety of pies and cheesecakes for dessert. Or grab an ice cream at the Dairy Queen before strolling the primitive shops.  PAINT CREEK LAKE STATE PARK: (2 miles away) There are dog-friendly hiking trails (the harmony trail and little pond trail are personal favorites), mountain bike trails, a 21-hole disc golf course, boat ramp (if you have kayaks, you can paddle around on the lake... this spot is excellent at sunset), and a camp store that has ice and hand-dipped ice cream. There is also a BEACH, which is good for picnicking and swimming, located at the southern entrance, off of SR 50. GREENFIELD: This town is closer (5 miles) and larger than Bainbridge and good for getting supplies. There are some restaurants, bars and supermarkets (Community Markets, at the further end of town, is recommended over the Save-a-Lot), El Canon (Mexican) would be my restaurant of choice if you decide to eat out.  Catch 22 Sports Bar has good burgers and there are plenty of pizza options for dine in or take-out. COVERED BRIDGE:  There is a sweet little covered bridge that you can still drive across in the tiny town of South Salem, just a 5 minute drive away.  To get there from here, take 41 North and then take a right onto Lower Twin Rd and drive a few miles and you will come to the bridge.  SERPENT MOUND (about 30 miles away, Peebles, OH) is an internationally known National Historic Landmark built by the ancient American Indian cultures of Ohio. It is an effigy mound representing a snake with a curled tail.  Nearby are three burial mounds—two created by the Adena culture (800 B.C.–A.D. 100), and one by the Fort Ancient culture (A.D. 1000–1650).  A must see! CHILLICOTHE (Ohio's first capital):  (30 minutes away) The historic downtown boasts charming architecture and is perfect for exploring on foot.  Several local shops, restaurants, coffee shops, breweries and bars.  A lovely city park with a small lake is host to a year-round population of ducks, geese and swans.  There is also a disc golf course and skate park in the city park.  There is frequent live music, gourmet cocktails and a wide variety of craft beer at Steiner's Speakeasy (an Americana-style bourbon bar of America).   GREAT SEAL STATE PARK (about 35 miles away in Chillicothe):  If you are into mountain biking, you will find some of the best trails in the state here (start at the Lick Run parking area).  There is also a great disc golf course here along with a picnic shelter and a playground for the kids.   FORT HILL EARTHWORKS & NATURE PRESERVE:  (30 minutes away) This preserve encompasses 1300 acres of mature woodlands and 11 miles of some of the best hiking trails in the state.  Part of the Old Growth Forest Network, there are remnants of the temperate deciduous forests that once covered all of the eastern United States.  For archaeology enthusiasts, there is a stone and earthen wall hilltop enclosure, as well as a smaller circular earthwork (both of which can be difficult to discern).
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$25
 / night
98%
(169)

Ashcraft Hills

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Warsaw, OH
The United Cabin Join us this fall at The United Cabin as we watch the leaves change and embrace the beauty of the season! This charming pet-friendly A-Frame retreat is nestled on 300 acres of stunning wilderness. Built in the 1980s and surrounded by a canopy of Poplar and White Oak trees, this cozy two-story cabin is the ideal getaway for couples, families, and friends looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. Highlights: - Scenic Views: Relax on the balcony, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of a serene ravine and a winding trail leading to a refreshing natural spring. - Outdoor Adventures: Explore the expansive woods, stroll along our picturesque prairie path, or cool off in the creek. The fully stocked pond is perfect for fishing (catch Bass, Bluegill, Carp, and Catfish) or capturing stunning sunset photos. - Comfortable Accommodations: Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen (with natural spring water), a full bathroom with complimentary shampoo and body wash, and laundry facilities. The inviting living room features a cozy gas fireplace, perfect for comfortable fall evenings. The upstairs bedroom includes a queen bed and a full bed, accessed by a charming spiral staircase. Amenities: - Fully stocked kitchen with pots, pans, coffee maker, stove, and small refrigerator - Full bathroom with towels provided - Mini split air conditioning for optimal comfort - Gas fireplace for cozy evenings - Washer and dryer - Comfortable bedding, including pillows and blankets - Entertainment options: television, DVD player (with a diverse movie collection), books, and games Whether you’re birdwatching from the balcony, enjoying a movie night, or exploring local attractions like Roscoe Village or the hiking trails at Honey Run and Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve, The United Cabin offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Book your stay today and create unforgettable memories in this peaceful woodland retreat!
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$27
 / night
99%
(120)

Hallstead Cabin & Camping

3 sites · Lodging7 acres · Hartville , OH
This small farm is 7 acres of the original 25 my great grandmother purchased for her family in 1934. The house dates back to the 1850s and is a post and beam structure. Guests can enjoy the barn, which has been converted to a rec area. Make our home and green space yours for a few days. Camp in comfort in our "little cabin in the woods." Accommodates up to six guests, with a queen-sized bed, a futon and two single rope-beds with foam mattresses in the loft, accessible only by ladder. Kids six and older may sleep in the loft-- just like Laura and Mary-- and they can read a chapter of one of Laura Ingalls' "Little House" books before bed! The Camp Cabin contains a small refrigerator, microwave and gas fireplace (no, the pioneers didn’t have that!). Fresh eggs and other snacks are provided for breakfast. The restroom and shower are located in the walkout basement of the farmhouse, a 40 yard walk from the Cabin. The restroom has a private entrance and is used only by guests during their stay. Pet and feed goats and other farm animals. Enjoy fun activities on the farm and in the barn.
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$120
 / night
98%
(1249)

The Lake at the Flying J Farm

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents250 acres · Johnstown, OH
Good news! Open fire ban lifted, camp fires are ok now! The Flying J Farm is 250 beautiful rolling acres including 100 acres of forest, 6-acre lake small pond, three streams, and numerous fields for crops and pastures with cows. The owner bought the farm in 1998 for his retirement from a faculty position at the Ohio State university. Two buildings, the farm house and old barn, are original dating back to 1831. These have been restored for current use. The mission of the farm is to restore health both in people though the products produced and in the land by farming in a sustainable way with no conventional chemicals, antibiotics, and use of GMO. We host many visitors including tours and events. An on farm market is available to visitors for purchase of our products including grass-fed beef, maple syrup, and fruits and vegetables. The cabin was built using wood from the farm. It has off-grid electricity meaning it is powered by batteries charged by solar panels. There is not sufficient power for devices with a heating element such as coffee makers and hair dryers. You may charge cell phones. For any other use, please check with the owner. Wild Life. There is an abundance of wildlife to be observed on the farm. Deer can be seen at dusk, raccoons can be seen going through your camp food at night (if you put it in your car), turkeys, hawks, vultures, rabbits, coyotes (heard screaming at night), frogs (especially heard at night), fish (jumping), and many song birds (my favorite, the bobolink, May and June only, nesting in the pastures).
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$31.50
 / night
97%
(119)

Nature's Way

23 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Rockbridge, OH
Visiting the Hocking Hills ? No interest in crowded campgrounds ? you have found 75 acres mostly wooded with trails right at the start of the Hocking Hills. (easy access from 33 and to Logan) There are various places around the property to pitch a tent. There are also options for RV parking with no hookups. I can transport you and your gear to the remote sites. ATV's are also welcome on the property. Firewood will be provided for free and in abundant amount. The site on top of the hill is a very secluded and mowed crest of hill surrounded by dogwood trees and the invasive Autumn Olive bushes. The site above the rxrwinery.com is a secluded, mowed clearing in the mature woods. There are also 2 sites in the valley that allow you to be near your vehicle. While on my property, clothing is optional. If you are traveling with an RV, the Sunny Rest location is the best with campfire.
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$20
 / night
100%
(63)

Uncle Chuck's Cabin

1 site · Lodging6 acres · Grand Rapids, OH
This property is a great place to enjoy nature. The Metropark has an easement through the canal. Bendview park is nearby. Undeveloped park acreage is near the access road to the east. Fly kites or drones in the grassy field. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are fun winter sports to indulge in. Birds find sanctuary here. Baltimore orioles, Cedar Waxwings,eagles, bluebirds and pileated woodpeckers pass through. Arrowheads have been found everywhere. There's peace and quiet in the surrounding area. Learn more about this land: See nature up close at this secluded getaway a 10 minute walk from South River Road. Enjoy fishing, bird watching, water sports, hiking, campfires and star gazing. Situated on the grassy bank of the Maumee with a natural boat launch. Adjacent to Metropark towpath between Waterville and Grand Rapids. Your fee includes propane and propane lantern, firewood and gas for the generator, plus use of boat, life vests and oars. Property has a fire ring, picnic table, grill and charcoal, sanitary outhouse and ample parking. Cabin has a microwave, Keurig, wood stove, futon, loft with full size bed, 5-gallon thermos of water, and electricity from a generator. No running water or kitchen. We provide twin sheets and pillow for the futon. We also make the full size bed in the loft.
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$85
 / night
97%
(15)

Camp Cedar

260 sites · Lodging, RVs53 acres · Mason, OH
Conveniently located just one mile from Kings Island Amusement Park in Deerfield Township near Mason, Ohio, Camp Cedar is a place where families can refresh, reconnect, and escape the grid—without forgoing life’s luxuries. Be our guest and enjoy an urban camping experience, thrilling activities, modern, comfortable accommodations, capacious RV campsites, and delightful amenities. After a day of exciting thrill rides at Kings Island Amusement Park, exploring Mason and Warren County, or a long day of travel, take refuge at Camp Cedar outdoor resort, featuring comfortable cottages, one of our new rental RV's or the option to relax in your own RV traveling accommodations. At Camp Cedar, we deliver big on fun! Explore our family fun attractions, programs, and activities, subtle but appreciated indulgences, and first-rate guest service so you can focus on the most important part of vacation—having fun! Enjoy the Hornbeam Lodge for socializing and activities, take a dip in our multiple pools, dine at our on-site restaurants, shop at our retail store, relax in our resort features such as fitness centers and pools, or upgrade to a private cabana. We look forward to welcoming you and making your stay a memorable one.
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$50
 / night
100%
(53)

Camp Rocky Run

2 sites · RVs9 acres · Eaton, OH
Rocky Run Creek is a tributary to Seven Mile Creek in Preble County, OH Small creek near residential area. Choice of wide open spaces, partial or full shade spots available. Short walking trail along the creek line is maintained. 'Rocky Cross' Geocach nearby. Please be aware that if we have had a lot of rain, the creek side spots may be too wet and difficult to get back up the hill with the wet grass.  If this is the case, we do have the gravel barn driveway that can accommodate your stay. During peak busy season, the barn drive may have additional guests due to site, weather or general camping conditions. The barn drive offers a view of the creek area about 100 feet away and is about 175 feet from the patio common area. WiFi covering the entire camp and all cellular carriers work great here. 30 Amp electrical in many spots. White tank water fill is available in select locations. Plenty of room for tow vehicle at your camp site. Pet policy: Dogs / pets are certainly welcome subject to the following: No destructive behaviors. (Digging, chewing, etc) No aggressive behaviors. (Toward anyone at any time) Please consider that other guests may be present. As of 5/1/24, a new overflow RV spot has been added with 30A electrical. As of 5/1/24, Premium WiFi is now available for additional $5 / day with fast WiFi speeds for working remotely. Just mention you would like the details on the premium WiFi upon arrival! **Please read the following travel safety advisories** =================================================== ! ROUTE RESTRICTIONS ! ( State Route 127, Eaton and South) If traveling here from the South (only on Ohio State Route 127), please note the height restrictions on three roads that connect SR 127 with the parallel Wayne Trace Road. The names of the roads to avoid: Consolidated (Height restriction 9' 9" under the railroad) Brower (Height restriction 10' 0" over Seven Mile Creek) 7 Mile Road (Height restriction 10' 6" and very sharp turn to bridge) Please watch what route electronic devices may may pick avoiding these routes. A suggested route from traveling North on State Route 127 to Camp Rocky Run is to turn in Camden, OH on State Route 725 and head East to Wayne Trace Road. !! NOTE on RV types !! You must have a self contained RV with on board restroom facilities. We have no restroom facilities available. For this reason, we do not offer tent camping.   !! NOTE on camp fire location !! The fire ring provided on the shared creek side patio is the only spot a camp fire, of any kind, can be built. (Sorry, but we have had too many damaged spots in the grass from the use of 'portable' fire ring units.) !! NOTE on Class A RVs with towed vehicle !! If it is too wet to access the creek side spots, we can still accommodate your stay in the nearby barn driveway but if you are unable to back up with the 'toad' then a detach will be required. Again, this is only if it is too wet to access the creek side camp spots. Generally we will be able to help you back in, but at times we may be away and suggest a helper in guiding you into the barn drive. Note, the barn driveway is not a pull through site.
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$25
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Ohio guide

Overview

With its vast agricultural plains hemmed in by mountains, lakes, and rivers, Ohio’s natural scenery covers all terrains. Beach breaks await along the sandy shores of Lake Erie to the north, while to the east, ancient caves and waterfalls are hidden away in the forested foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Outdoor activities take place through all four seasons, from hiking and canoeing to snowshoeing and ice fishing, and camping is possible year-round. Summer temperatures average 80°F, and this is prime time for campers, but the views are most spectacular in the fall, when the eastern hills are ablaze with colorful foliage.

Where to go

Great Lakes Plains

Sandy beaches and island getaways dot the 312-mile shore of Lake Erie, stretching from Toledo through Cleveland to Conneaut. East Harbor State Park is a highlight of the Lake Erie Birding Trail, and birders flock to nearby Maumee Bay State Park during the spring warbler migration. The most scenic spots for summer camping are on the islands, and regular ferries set out for the Bass Islands and Kelleys Island state parks.

Till Plains

Cornfields and farmlands blanket Ohio’s central region, but there are also more than a dozen state parks within a short drive of Columbus. The limestone gorges of John Bryan State Park harbor some of the region’s best hiking trails, while to the north, the Mohican River is one of Ohio’s top spots for canoeing. For beaches, boating, and lakeside campgrounds, Indian Lake State Park and Alum Creek State Park are both popular choices.

Appalachian Plateau

East of the Till Plains, the patchwork farmlands of Amish Country lead the way to the state’s only national park, Cuyahoga Valley. This is where Ohio’s adventurous spirit comes into its own—take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Railroad, go ziplining or caving in the Hocking Hills State Park, or enjoy backcountry camping in the heart of the Wayne National Forest.

Bluegrass Region

Rambling woodlands and steep cliffs line the banks of the Ohio River in the state’s southernmost region. Just outside Cincinnati, East Fork State Park has one of the largest state campgrounds in Ohio, while the rugged landscapes of the Shawnee State Park are just a 2-hour drive from the city. For hikers, the ultimate challenge is the North Country National Scenic Trail, which cuts through southern Ohio.

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