Camping in Ohio with climbing

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

97% (1583 reviews)
97% (1583 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ohio

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in Ohio with climbing

99%
(1012)

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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$30
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99%
(507)

McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents230 acres · Frazeysburg, OH
McKee Farm is rich in memories and rich in history. It has been in the family for over 150 years and we were told that it was one of stopping points for the underground railroad. The 240 acre farm boasts a hidden cave, wide open fields, breathtaking forest land, and historic and rustic barns. Nestled at the edge of a wooded creek, Tullihas in the Trees treehouse boasts a beautiful sunset view with rolling hills. Tullihas combines comfort with the thrill of being immersed in nature. Built using recycled electric poles, Tullihas in the Trees has a deck perfect for hammocking, an interior dressed with windows so that guests can feel as if they are living amongst the trees, and two small lofts ideal for a restful night's sleep. Oxley in the Woods is our newest treehouse cabin. Nestled in the woods with a view of the sunset, the lovely A Frame is filled with lovely woodwork, vintage parquet flooring, and private wooded views. The deck is huge! We've had guests set up a tent on the deck beside the treehouse for fun! Swings, and a slide make the Oxley a fun adventure. The double bed in the loft and the two stacked single beds are comfortable and cozy. The McKee Farmhouse was built in the 1800s and is rich in memories. It's a rustic old house, with wood trim, hardwood floors, and plenty of imperfections that make it unique. You can sit on the porch and drink your coffee with a view of the barn and pastures, or cozy up in one of the house's four bedrooms and sleep in. The house is fully air conditioned and heated, has all the amenities of home, but takes you back to a simpler time. Our campsites are all set apart from one another in various locations on the 240 acre farm. Secluded and unique, each campsite has its own charm. We provide guests with a fire ring and a shovel, and some sites have a picnic table. Hiking trails are marked throughout the land. Guests can hike with views of horses, cows, wildlife, corn fields, large boulders, and rustic barns. The dirt roads provide great places to drive ATVs and four-wheelers. An Amish farm borders McKee Farm. Guests should know there is minimal cell service, however, this can offer a great opportunity to unplug. Tullihas in the Trees provides a perfect remote and rustic getaway for anyone. In October and November, access to hiking is limited.
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$35
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100%
(9)

Cozy mountain log cabin

1 site · Lodging25 acres · Richmond Dale, OH
NOW OPEN !!! Nestled deep in the mountains is this cozy real log cabin. Perfect for romantic getaways, family gatherings, it’s just a great place to unwind and get away from it all relaxing in your private hot tub surrounded by the sounds of nature with all the amenities of home. It’s located on a hill side overlooking the mountain. It’s secluded and very peaceful. This cabin is located directly on land you are allowed to ride your atvs. If you do not own, your own Atv and your you’re looking to add an adventure to your stay. We recommend renting one of our golf carts to explore the backcountry mountain roads with it is the best way to get out and sightsee and explore the area during your stay , we do offer these adventures separately to anyone looking to take a ride not just our guest. you could bring your own atv and pay a $30 daily riding fee , ride as much as you want. Message us to schedule a ride. we look forward to providing you with an amazing stay soon
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$116
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98%
(28)

Ohio River Private Paradise

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Stout, OH
Enjoy our private paradise with over 800 feet of riverfront on 17 acres along the banks of the beautiful Ohio River. We have a great landing for fishing, swimming, or kayaking. The sunsets are fantastic and the night sky incredible! Behold the barges passing by on the river as you unwind and relax in the peacefulness of nature! This is a primitive camp with three sites available for you to consider. Some things to know: We will provide a key code close to your arrival time so you can enter the gate by the road. If you are coming by river, we will put a flag on our landing. You can drive your vehicle right down to the sites. The farm is flat and easily navigated as long as it is dry. There will be a 5 gallon cooler of potable water for you to use. More water is available if we are at the property. We have 2 outhouses located on either end of the property. Firewood is plentiful by the river. We have some wood under a black tarp by the pavilion fire pit available for an additional fee. We have one neighbor who can make some noise with ORVs especially on weekends. Activities in the area include: 4 nature preserves The Conservancy properties Adams Lake State Park Lynx Prairie Serpent Mound Cedar Falls Moondoggie Livery Shawnee State Park Shawnee State Forest with over 60,000 acres and 8.000 acres of wilderness. Horse and ATV trails The Buckeye Trail The Ohio River Way Lewis and Clark Trail
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$42
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99%
(85)

Tenderfoot Learning Lab

2 sites · Tents16 acres · New Marshfield, OH
Tenderfoot Learning Lab is for students of all ages to learn how to live a sustainable life within their chosen study and life path. Your stay here will help support our mission of preparing students for life beyond college, teaching them to be critical thinkers who understand the ripple effects of their decisions in their local and global communities. Learn more about this land: www.tenderfootlearninglab.org -Ash Cave is within 30 minutes. -Zaleski state park is a 22 minute drive. Attractions UNDER 10 minutes away: - Fox Lake  - bass fishing and birdwatching  - Waterloo Wilderness Area - hiking and wild turkey hunting  -Athens Ohio - many great attractions including our world famous breweries (yes, plural) -Hockhocking Adena  Bikeway - A 21 mile rail to trail paved footpath between Nelsonville and Athens -Wayne National Forest Headquarters -  A patchwork of public land that covers over a quarter million acres of Appalachian foothills  We are located 22 miles from Hocking Hills State Park We can accommodate trailer parking with a pull around driveway for all the Hocking Hills ATV trails nearby. No riding on site.
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$28
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96%
(36)

Raven's Retreat Hocking Hills

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents58 acres · Laurelville, OH
A modern and eclectic experience, this forest lodge sleeps 16 and is set on a 58-acre nature preserve. Created by two artists, the curated aesthetics of this home are ideal for retreats, gatherings, and team building. Featuring steel sculptures, wood carvings, tile murals, and a black walnut kitchen and bar; this 4000 sq ft space has a walk out lower level and open floor plan with forest views. Includes WIFI with 200 Mbps, hot tub, sauna, outdoor shower, onsite hiking trails and nearby Hocking Hills Parks. Tiny Art Bungalows available in 2025 Pollinator Tiny Bungalow, Tiny Home/Cabin, sleeps 2. (undergoing current renovation) Another Tiny Art Bungalow coming soon, sleeps 2. Raven's Retreat is just an hour from Columbus, Ohio and less than 2 miles from the local Hocking Hills town, Laurelville. So, you can get groceries, gas, supplies, buy local cider, and visit 6 family-owned restaurants less than a 5-minute drive away. We, Dustin and Raven, the owners of Sculptdecor, custom art, created much of what you will see in all of the spaces at Ravens's Retreat Hocking Hills, including the kitchens and bathrooms. We have installed Starlink internet connection in our Art Lodge and Tiny Bungalows, ensuring you stay connected while enjoying your time in nature. Starlink is the best internet in the Hocking Hills with an average speed of 200 to 400 Mbps. Upon booking, you'll receive our personal guidebook filled with local recommendations to help you plan your perfect getaway. We're locals and passionate about making your stay exceptional. Upon booking, you'll receive our direct contact phone numbers for any assistance you might need. Events and parties must be approved in writing; talk to us about your plans; we want you to have an incredible experience! The State Parks and Nature Preserves nearby are: Rockhouse ( 6.5 miles away ) Conkles Hollow ( 10.5 miles away ) Whispering Cave ( 14 miles away ) Old Man's Cave ( 14 miles away ) Ash Cave ( 13 miles ) Cantwell Cliffs ( 12 miles away ) and several more! Laurelville is a small town on the western end of the Hocking Hills. It is mostly made up of nice farmers and kind hearted hill people. The closest larger towns are Logan, Lancaster, Circleville, and Chillicothe. HOST INTERACTION: We give our guests space but are available if needed Raven's Retreat is a beautiful, 58-acre nature preserve located in the Hocking Hills, 2 miles east of Laurelville, Oh. This land has remained mostly untouched and was purchased due to its resemblance to the deep forest of West Virginia, home to Raven's mother, Lisa Mahaney. The property is dear to us and we do everything we can to protect and maintain it in its natural state. It contains 4 creeks, hiking trails, a pond, and the top of a ridge. There are several endangered species including whippoorwills and two lined salamanders that reside at Raven's Retreat. There is an abundance of wildlife present due to keeping this property as wild as possible. No hunting, fishing, or swimming is allowed on the preserve. We are working with local environmental specialists to ensure that we maintain a thriving, healthy place for wildlife. We do our best to keep the human traffic on the property low but we want people to feel free to explore our challenging trails. There are over a mile of Hiking trails on the property that are not heavily traveled. The elevation change from the top of our ridge to the deepest part of our creek bed is over 220ft. If you plan to hike our trails, please keep strong scents such as perfumes to a minimum. This is often overlooked, but it can be confusing and disturb the wildlife. Quiet hours are to be honored and kept when the sun goes down. A respectful noise level is to be kept in consideration for our neighbors and animals. 💡 Please note, we do consider the effects of light pollution and use particular lights to lessen our impact on the night creatures. Please do not bring your animals with you if you are staying at the Unique Art Lodge or Tiny Bungalows here at Raven's Retreat. In the future, we have plans to have spaces that are suitable for animal friends. We prioritize guest wellness by having our spaces cleaned by professional cleaners who use eco-friendly products, pay a fair wage, and have serious attention to detail.  While we adore animals, we currently cannot accommodate domestic animals due to our resident senior dog, Peanut, who you may see somewhere on the property during your stay. For art enthusiasts, the Sculptdecor Shop, run by master sculptor Dustin Weatherby, is on on the 58-acres closest to the Art Lodge located at the bottom of the driveway. Dustin specializes in animatronics, steel sculptures, wood carvings, mixed media sculptures, and starting in 2025, will offer live art performances and experience packages for guests. Feel free to stop by the shop and say hello—our home is on the same 58-acre property. Although you cannot see our home from the Art Lodge or Tiny Bungalows, we're often nearby to assist you if you need us. We can't wait to share our passion for art and nature seen within our spaces. Book your stay and experience it for yourself. Your hosts, -Raven and Dustin- Ravens Retreat Hocking Hills Important: Before you arrive, you will be asked to complete guest verification through third-party provider Superhog. This is done to ensure we are keeping up-to-date with short-term rental regulations as well as providing both our guests and our properties with extra protection. Superhog will contact you via email and/or text to complete the verification. Please complete the verification process prior to arriving at the property to enable a quick and easy check-in process. You will also be asked to purchase a $35 damage waiver via third party provider Superhog, which will protect you and your group in case of accidental damage of up to $500 during your stay. We understand accidents happen; this lessens stress on all people involved.
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$30
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Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Ohio with climbing guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting out, we've got you covered in Ohio. With over 340 options specifically tailored to climbers in Ohio, you'll have plenty to choose from. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), McKee Farm (188 reviews), or Geneva Hills (81 reviews). Our campsites offer popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and pet-friendly accommodations. And if you're looking for other activities to complement your climbing adventure, you can also enjoy snow sports, horseback riding, and wind sports. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $22, it's never been easier to plan your next camping trip. Get ready to explore the great outdoors!

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