Lake Camping in Ohio: Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
—
Ohio

96% (3626 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ohio

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

98%

(41)

Haymaker Homestead

3 sites · RVs5 acres · Streetsboro, OH

Our property is located just off the beaten path with 4.5 acres of land. It’s close to shopping and turnpike/hwy access but still has the out-in-the-country feel. We have a half acre pond filled with bluegill and large mouth bass, a hillside with apple trees and blackberry bushes, and a large gravel turnaround for easy access.

The Shack

3 sites · Tents4 acres · Wilmington, OH

This elevated shack overlooks a pond and is conveniently located within walking distance of Cowan Lake. The road is a nice place to go for a walk taking in the wildlife, cattle farm, and ending at the lake. This State Park provides a wonderful opportunity to hike, bird watch, and enjoy water recreation. The lake has a 10 hp limit, so it is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing, and sailing.

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).

The Pleasant Valley Farm

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents53 acres · Lucas, OH

Pleasant Valley Farm was originally a working farm with a two-story farmhouse and traditional bank barn, built in the late 1800s. The massive timbers and joinery are constant reminders of the meticulous craftsmanship of the era. Jim and Kathy Grogg purchased Pleasant Valley Farm in 1994 and not only updated the house and barn, but also expanded the lake to its current 13 acres. The large 144-year-old, 2736-square-foot barn is now available for special occasions such as weddings, receptions, birthdays, and reunions.

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).

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Ohio

98%

(1242)

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).

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).

Haymaker Homestead

3 sites · RVs5 acres · Streetsboro, OH

Our property is located just off the beaten path with 4.5 acres of land. It’s close to shopping and turnpike/hwy access but still has the out-in-the-country feel. We have a half acre pond filled with bluegill and large mouth bass, a hillside with apple trees and blackberry bushes, and a large gravel turnaround for easy access.

The Shack

3 sites · Tents4 acres · Wilmington, OH

This elevated shack overlooks a pond and is conveniently located within walking distance of Cowan Lake. The road is a nice place to go for a walk taking in the wildlife, cattle farm, and ending at the lake. This State Park provides a wonderful opportunity to hike, bird watch, and enjoy water recreation. The lake has a 10 hp limit, so it is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing, and sailing.

The Pleasant Valley Farm

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents53 acres · Lucas, OH

Pleasant Valley Farm was originally a working farm with a two-story farmhouse and traditional bank barn, built in the late 1800s. The massive timbers and joinery are constant reminders of the meticulous craftsmanship of the era. Jim and Kathy Grogg purchased Pleasant Valley Farm in 1994 and not only updated the house and barn, but also expanded the lake to its current 13 acres. The large 144-year-old, 2736-square-foot barn is now available for special occasions such as weddings, receptions, birthdays, and reunions.

Restoration Lake Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Fredericktown, OH

BEST KEPT SECRET: We are nestled on 1 acre right up next to Knox Lake's forest. Come and open all your senses to creation. For Advanced hikers the lake is a short walk to the bottom of the hill. If the kayaks are hanging up; take them out and explore the lake and all its beauty. The Knox Lake Dam can be reached a short distance down the road. The boat dock is just a few minutes from the cabin. Fredericktown and its quaint little shops and restaurants are just a few minutes away too. We are 16 mi. from Snow trails Ski Resort, 1 hour from John Glen airport, 10 mi from Kenyon college, 11 mi. from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, 16 mi. from Malabar Farm and 15 mi. from Mohican.

99%

(135)

Private Forest Campsite

1 site · Tent80 acres · Dexter , OH

Nestled under the shade bequeathed by a tall canopy of deciduous trees and alongside a gentle flowing brook, lies a forest opening perfect for immersing oneself in nature. From our parking area, our private campsite is a short walk (3-4 minutes) by way of a well maintained footpath which leads you alongside a farm pasture, to a wooded trail that empties on to a level forest understory ideal for your hammock or tent. Our campsite is equipped with the necessities: a firepit with a removable grill, a table, your own private outhouse, and unlimited sights and sounds of nature. Trails leading from the campsite will usher you short distances to one of our best stargazing hilltops, to the shallow creek which runs alongside the campsite, through shaded forests and ridgetop views. Our pond, a short 7 minute hike, offers fishing, swimming or simply relaxing on the dock. For longer hikes, all trails connect to our larger network of maintained trails winding over hill and dale, through shaded forests and open (mowed) pasture trails offering the hiker farm-life views across our 80 acres. To make your packing lighter and your stay more comfortable, we offer the following "extra items" at an additional cost. Please order your "extra items" at the time of booking. *Additional fees may apply for items not ordered in advance of stay.* - Firewood bundles (unlimited) - Garbage disposal (limit 2 bags per booking) - Charged battery pack with plug and USB receptables - *Stringed twinkle lights - we do the hanging before you arrive * must be ordered with our charged battery pack or bring own power source. All purchased "extras" will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Please see the "extras" for more detailed information and pricing.

100%

(294)

Rusty's Retreat

12 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Fostoria, OH

We bought this 125+ year old farm in 2010 with the hope of bringing it back to life. Overgrown and neglected, we have worked hard to make it a nice place for hiking, kayaking, fishing or any number of other activities. Peaceful and remote, the property has a beautiful brook that leads you to the South branch of the Portage river. Deer, turkey, geese, herons, mink and fox are just a few of our natural animal friends. Rusty the steer and his pony friends Buckeye and Lexi can be visited while they graze in the pasture. There's also Turk the turkey and his flock of chickens. We have the perfect place for dogs as well. We have four dogs that get along great with others and our fenced pond keeps them safe.

89%

(247)

Geneva Hills

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Lancaster, OH

Located in the beautiful Hocking Hills in southern Fairfield County, Ohio, it is a quick and convenient drive that feels a million miles away - providing the serenity and connection with God's creation that only being emerged in nature can provide.

100%

(2)

Red Barn Hideaway

2 sites · RVs6 acres · Richfield, OH

Perfect location! A full hookup RV site in a semi-rural setting, close to all sorts of outdoor recreation, yet 10 minutes or less from I77, I 271 and I80. Snowbirds and travelers passing through nearby freeways, we have full hook ups available all winter long. Staying a while? There are hiking trails as close as right across the road. Boston Mills Ski Resort and Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area, and are minutes away, or simply walk to the back yard and fish our pond or explore our woods. Fenced in area where you can excercise your pets. Swimming poll available for guests, however children under 14 must be accompanied by adults at all times. NO DIVING! Pool is only 5' deep at deepest end. Property is shared by host. Our campsite is in our backyard. Two friendly dogs on property.

94%

(198)

Towpath Trail Peace Park

5 sites · Tents2 acres · Bolivar, OH

Primitive tent camping on the Greenville Peace Treaty Line, Buckeye Trail, Ohio-Erie Canal Towpath Trail, Scenic Byway, Tuscarawas River Water Trail, and the Great American Rail Trail! Located on the historic Ohio-Erie Canal between the village of Bolivar Ballparks and the McDonnell trailheads on the towpath trail ten miles south of Canton, Ohio, and 1.5 miles west of I-77 exit 93 on Scenic Byway Rt 212 in beautiful Tuscarawas County, Ohio. The Peace Park is designed for bikers, hikers, dog walkers, and anyone traveling through to book a campsite even if anyone isn't available to meet and greet. Campers, once booked may go to an available campsite and set up camp. Dog-friendly, handicapped-accessible Porta-Jon with hand sanitizer shared electricity for charging phones, pristine aquifer water, picnic tables, fire-pits, fireside benches, birds, butterflies, lightning bugs, wild turkey, deer, and other wildlife are often seen. Please note: We're located on a section of the Ohio-Erie Canal Scenic Byway, the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad, and a 90-degree corner with a slight slope that causes trucks to downshift brake, we recommend bringing earplugs if you're a light sleeper!

99%

(71)

Myhio Haven Horse Farm

4 sites · Tents60 acres · West Portsmouth, OH

Established in 1983 on a 60-acre plot of land right in the Shawnee State Forest. The property is beautiful with flat land, fields, and at the back are the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains. We put a horse farm on the land in 2000. The horses here are my family and I want to expand and offer more opportunities on the land. That's when I came across Hipcamp! I'm excited to share a piece of my heaven that I'm fortunate enough to call home.

Star Hosts 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).

Private Forest Campsite

1 site · Tent80 acres · Dexter , OH

Nestled under the shade bequeathed by a tall canopy of deciduous trees and alongside a gentle flowing brook, lies a forest opening perfect for immersing oneself in nature. From our parking area, our private campsite is a short walk (3-4 minutes) by way of a well maintained footpath which leads you alongside a farm pasture, to a wooded trail that empties on to a level forest understory ideal for your hammock or tent. Our campsite is equipped with the necessities: a firepit with a removable grill, a table, your own private outhouse, and unlimited sights and sounds of nature. Trails leading from the campsite will usher you short distances to one of our best stargazing hilltops, to the shallow creek which runs alongside the campsite, through shaded forests and ridgetop views. Our pond, a short 7 minute hike, offers fishing, swimming or simply relaxing on the dock. For longer hikes, all trails connect to our larger network of maintained trails winding over hill and dale, through shaded forests and open (mowed) pasture trails offering the hiker farm-life views across our 80 acres. To make your packing lighter and your stay more comfortable, we offer the following "extra items" at an additional cost. Please order your "extra items" at the time of booking. *Additional fees may apply for items not ordered in advance of stay.* - Firewood bundles (unlimited) - Garbage disposal (limit 2 bags per booking) - Charged battery pack with plug and USB receptables - *Stringed twinkle lights - we do the hanging before you arrive * must be ordered with our charged battery pack or bring own power source. All purchased "extras" will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Please see the "extras" for more detailed information and pricing.

The Shack

3 sites · Tents4 acres · Wilmington, OH

This elevated shack overlooks a pond and is conveniently located within walking distance of Cowan Lake. The road is a nice place to go for a walk taking in the wildlife, cattle farm, and ending at the lake. This State Park provides a wonderful opportunity to hike, bird watch, and enjoy water recreation. The lake has a 10 hp limit, so it is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing, and sailing.

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).

Haymaker Homestead

3 sites · RVs5 acres · Streetsboro, OH

Our property is located just off the beaten path with 4.5 acres of land. It’s close to shopping and turnpike/hwy access but still has the out-in-the-country feel. We have a half acre pond filled with bluegill and large mouth bass, a hillside with apple trees and blackberry bushes, and a large gravel turnaround for easy access.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping in Ohio guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your ultimate guide to camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near a lake in Ohio, we've got you covered. With over 469 options in Ohio that offer a lake, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed trip, our top campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews) have got you covered. And don't worry about breaking the bank, with prices as low as $18 per night and an average price of $39 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Plus, popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, cooking equipment, and showers are available to make your stay even more comfortable. So come on, grab your fishing gear, saddle up for a horseback ride, and get ready for some wildlife watching - the camping trip of a lifetime awaits!