River, stream, or creek camping in Ohio

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

97% (7663 reviews)
97% (7663 reviews)

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12 top river, stream, or creek 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%
(168)

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
93%
(7)

Secluded Mt. Airy Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Cincinnati, OH
Campsite in the Heart of Mt. Airy Forest Escape to nature at our serene campsite nestled in the hills of Cincinnati’s Mt. Airy Forest. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, our site provides a peaceful retreat while being just steps away from adventure. **What We Offer:** **Campsite Amenities:** Enjoy a cozy campsite equipped with a fire pit, and available firewood. Need breakfast? We’ve got fresh eggs available! **Nature Access:** Step right from our property onto miles of scenic hiking trails that weave through Mt. Airy Forest’s 1,459 acres. **Local Attractions:** Explore the area with several picnic spots, a disc golf course, and a multi-use mountain biking trail. Don’t miss Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse, a stunning arboretum, and an enclosed dog park for your furry friends. Need a night out on the town? We are located approximately 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Cincinnati where you can enjoy dinner, brewery’s, events and so much more! **Capacity:** Our site comfortably accommodates up to 10 people. Whether you’re tent camping or bringing an RV, we’ve got you covered with an electrical hookup. (The electric hookup and parking of a Camper Van is on our gravel driveway, not at the campsite) **Privacy:** While our home is located on the property, your campsite is tucked away in a secluded meadow, ensuring peace and quiet during your stay. We look forward to your visit and are here if you need anything! Welcome to the Queen City!
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$31.45
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100%
(100)

Hemlock Hideaway

12 sites · Lodging, Tents18 acres · Geneva, OH
Hemlock Hideaway and its 18 acres was originally part of a larger 100-acre plot that was surveyed and settled in the late 1700's by Gideon Granger of the Connecticut Land Company. Granger sold it to one Jehoikim Burget in 1815 for the whopping price of $400. The resident house was built in 1816 by Burget and then passed down to family members over the next 5 generations, until we bought it in 2003, marking the first time the house and remaining property were ever officially sold. In the mid 1800's, a grist mill was put up across the river from the cabin, and our creek was the main road in and out of that operation. There is a gravestone belonging to the wife of Jehoikim's son, she being half Native American and therefore couldn't be buried in the local white cemetery. We also own the original hand-written deed from 1815 detailing the sale of the original 100 acres to Jehoikim Burget. Learn more about this land: Our primitive cabin nestled in the woods overlooking the Grand River is a nature-lover's paradise! Come canoe, fish, experience wine country, or unplug and just get away from it all. Please note: There is no running water or electricity at the site, but the cabin is generator-ready and there is an outhouse.  The cabin does have a wood burning stove for heat and simple cooking, however there is no running water or electricity.  That being said, the building is wired and has plugs and outlets and is generator-ready.  You provide your own generator and fuel.  We provide bottled water, sheets, pillows, flashlights, a fire ring with cooking grate, charcoal grill (you provide the charcoal), access to firewood, and an outhouse with toilet paper.  Our 1/4 mile of Grand River frontage can be accessed right outside the cabin door via a quick hike down the somewhat steep hillside.  If hiking isn't preferred, then a quick two-minute drive will take you to the Harpersfield Covered Bridge Metropark - a favorite of local fishermen.  Bigger groups with tents are welcome, but will need to bring all supplies beyond what we provide for two guests. 
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$65
 / 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
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
96%
(25)

Secure & Safe Camping

9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Springfield, OH
20 acre property with large and small barn. Just off of Interstate 70 and Rt 41. (approximately 1/4 mi from highway). Paved parking areas on each side of the barn with available water and electricity hook up on each side of the barn. Wooded lot with 1 mile walking trail on property for guests and pets. NOTE: Maximum stay on north and south BARN SITES is 3 consecutive nights. UNLESS we discuss the situation prior to the dates. For the TITUS RD DISPERSED SITE, I have a 30 day limit (longer is possible if OK'd before stay) Note, we have a rear patio porch and deck on the back of the house that we use and is in sight. 6 dogs between daughter next door (South side of barn) and us but both have fenced in yards that we try to keep the dogs in when campers are present. Dogs are harmless but do bark when they do not know you... City of Springfield is less than three miles away. A Sheets and Loves Truckstop are 300 yards away with the Loves having a dump station. Next door to this property is a BP Station and Carryout. The Loves Truckstop has a Wendys, Subway, and dog park. Sheets also has a food court. All within walking distance. Great location as Columbus is 30 min to the east, Dayton is 25 min to the west. 13 min to I 675 and 20 min to Interstate 75 N/S. I 71 N/S Columbus is 35 min away in downtown Columbus... NOTE: Little over a quarter of a mile off of Interstate 70, and on a State Route, If looking for absolute silence and desolation, this is not for you. Back off of the road but all the sounds carry.....
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$20
 / night
100%
(483)

The Viking Longhall

10 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Peebles, OH
The Viking longhall has been 9 years in the making by a group of semi serious Viking enthusiasts: the result is a 60 foot long building that has 18, 8,x4' sleeping berths. Set apart from the main open area it also boasts 2 meeting rooms and a kitchen. The campsite is a very peaceful place. Some go as far as to say a healing place! We are proud of what we have achieved and now want people to come out and enjoy it also. The field is close enough to the Appalachian highway (state route 32) for convenience, but far enough not to be bothered by it. The area is steeped in Native American culture. In fact, the world famous Serpent Mound is but 8 miles away, with many other Adena culture sites within easy driving distance. It's also in the heart of the Amish community. The area is known for its natural beauty with many hiking trails and canoeing opportunities. The area is awash in beauty and history from the ancient mound culture to the amish culture. The area has many hiking trails some of which are part of the buckeye trail and range in length from an easy 1 mile loop to rugged hikes of many miles. Come out and share the land that we have loved for the last 30 years PLEASE NOTE….WE WILL NO LONGER BE SUPPLYING BEDDING OR TOWELS.
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$40
 / 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

River, stream, or creek camping in Ohio guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States. If you're looking to camp near a river in Ohio, you're in luck! With over 986 options available, you'll find the perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy the tranquility of the flowing water. Whether you prefer a cozy tent site or a rustic cabin, there's something for everyone. Check out top-rated campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Viking Longhall (257 reviews), and Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (258 reviews) for a truly exceptional experience. And don't forget to take advantage of popular amenities like trash disposal, showers, and potable water. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at whitewater paddling, horseback riding, or swimming. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $5, camping in Ohio has never been more affordable. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping trip along the river in Ohio. Happy camping!

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