Camping in Ohio with swimming

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

97% (5844 reviews)
97% (5844 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ohio

Available this weekend

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in Ohio with swimming

99%
(1015)

Fruitdale Farm

11 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).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$27
 / night
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$35
 / night
98%
(2163)

Camping at Heritage Farms

47 sites · Lodging, Tents115 acres · Peninsula, OH
At Heritage Farms, we’re currently a 5th-generation, family-owned and -operated Christmas tree farm headed by my husband, George, and me, Carol. Originally founded in 1848 by my great uncle Lawson Waterman, it was my father who shifted our primary focus to cultivating Christmas trees in 1955. George and I took the reins in 1979 and have been happily continuing the tradition of growing trees while also expanding into other areas, including celebrating Halloween with our month-long Pumpkin Pandemonium in October. We’ve also taken to hosting the Peninsula Flea during the summer months, catering to a wide variety of artisan- and craftsman-centric clientele. As for camping, we began eight years ago following a trip George and I took to Denmark, wherein we stayed in a number of outdoor shelters that would later inspire us to construct the first of our several Adirondack-style shelters. We’ve since expanded to offering six shelters total, three of which share the same Adirondack aesthetic of our original build, and three of which take inspiration from an open-air A-frame design. Along with those shelters, we’ve mapped out nine primitive tent sites, all of which are available for rent, spring through fall—we hope to see you here! Heritage Farms is a 5th-generation, 115-acre farm located in the heart of the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and as such we are incredibly close to the various trails located across the Cuyahoga Valley. We are a working tree farm, and while we do ask for your care while residing among our fields, we also encourage you to take advantage of the beauty and serenity that our property has to offer! WHAT WE OFFER From April 1st to October 26th, 2024, we have 15 campsites available* for rental, including nine outdoor tent sites, three A-frame sites, two standard Adirondack shelter sites, and one “Glamping” site. Each site comes standard with a fire ring, a grilling grate, a picnic table, and a storage rack for firewood and kindling drop-offs. All shelter sites include closure devices for privacy and protection. Our Glamping site (numbered as Campsite 3) features an upgraded Adirondack shelter that includes a complimentary mattress, screen door and fasteners, exterior curtain, lean-to awning, and full propane grill and tool set. Also included is a furnished campfire ring featuring rustic bench seating and chairs. It’s a perfect site for large groups! Included for use by all campers is our Games Field, located by our lower gravel lot, adjacent to campsites A and B. This field holds a cornhole area, a horseshoes pitch, and a tetherball court, all with playing pieces available. We also have our Lending Wagon, stocked with board games, books, puzzles, and miscellaneous gear campers may need—we do request that all items borrowed from the Lending Wagon be returned before departing Heritage Farms. Other amenities include an information booth where carts, charging stations, and assistance from an on-site attendant can be found. *During October, several of our campsites (A-F, and 6) are closed in lieu of our Pumpkin Pandemonium. As a result, our reservations are limited during this month. SOME THINGS TO KNOW 1. We have capacity limits at our sites. Tent sites, labelled A-J, can hold three (3) tents. Shelter sites, numbered 1-6, have a shelter and room for two (2) tents. All sites are limited to a maximum of six (6) campers. 2. All vehicles (except bicycles) must remain in the designated parking lots. 3. No vehicles may be driven into the camping area at any time. 4. Campers are responsible for carrying their gear to their campsites—we provide wheeled carts for your use. 5. Ohio Primitive Camping licensing does not allow for wheeled camping on Heritage Farms property. This includes car camping, truck campers, popups, RVs, and any other wheeled camping vehicles. 6. Due to Summit County Health regulations, we cannot provide ground water. Please bring your own drinking water and washing water. We do have 1-gallon jugs of water available for purchase during reservations and upon arrival at Heritage Farms. Purchases can be made using PayPal, credit card, or cash. 7. Due to the potential risks posed to our crops, and to state and National Park regulations, WE DO NOT ALLOW OUTSIDE FIREWOOD on Heritage Farms property—firewood MUST be purchased from Heritage Farms. Firewood and kindling bundles are available for purchase upon reservation at a discounted rate and will be delivered to your campsite prior to your arrival. Firewood may also be purchased upon arrival at our standard rate, using PayPal, credit card, or cash. 8. Several of our campsites are situated along the boundary between the farm and Cuyahoga Valley National Park property. Please respect the designated boundaries and refrain from encroaching into unauthorized park territory. 9. Check-in times are from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you’re arriving after 7:00 p.m., please let us know your estimated time of arrival—if you’re arriving after dark, we’ll mark your site with a solar light. Checkout should be completed before 10:00 a.m.—all tents, equipment, and trash must be removed from your campsite prior to your departure. We do have a dumpster on-site where all camp trash must be disposed. Gray water stations are available for the disposal of used or dirty water. 10. Only campers registered to Hipcamp are permitted on Heritage Farms property. A public picnic area is available ¼-mile south of the farm for outside socializing. 11. DOG POLICY: we welcome dogs who have received prior permission from the farm owners. We limit the number of dogs on property each day. A dog registration form must be filled out upon arrival and must include information regarding rabies vaccinations—dogs that have not had the proper vaccinations are not permitted on the property. All dogs MUST be on a leash and in the physical control of their owner(s) at all times. No pets may be left unattended at any time—pets must be taken with their owner(s) any time the owner(s) departs the farm property. 12. Heritage Farms is a working farm, and as such machinery may be in use during your stay. OTHER INFORMATION Our 15 primitive campsites are situated 25 to 50 yards apart from one another. This allows for social distancing and maximizes campsite privacy. All 15 of our campsites at Heritage Farms are available for booking from April 1 until September 27, 2024; from September 28 to October 26, 2024, only shelter sites 1-5 and tent sites and G, H, and J will be open. We can't wait to see you on the farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40
 / night
97%
(35)

Bear Pond

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · West Union, OH
Serene, Rolling Hills, Fresh air. Hiking Buzzards Roost, Canoe/Kayaking @ MoonDoggie LIVERee, visiting Family Traditions Animal Zoo, Miller’s Amish Furniture and Bakery, Shawnee National Forest, Adams State Lake, Serpent Mound, Tranquility Wild Life Shooting Range, or even just stargazing. Your away from everything but close to what ever you want. Bigfoot Country (Sasquatch Hunting is allowed, however like fishing, they are catch and release only😎) . Nice private spot accommodates Tent Camping, Car camping, or even if your taking an Overland Trip. Bearpond will accommodate small RVs and Travel trailers. Nola's Cabin is a New availability as an Extra. Nola's Cabin is a Cozy small quiet cabin situated at the end of the gravel driveway under the trees. Overlooks the small valley down into the hill across the creek. Nice cozy place out of the elements. Water and Electric is available on site, with only Electric in Nolas Cabin. Nolas Cabin accommodates 4 people nicely. Twin (1) over full bunk (2) with Trundle (1). 6 inch Memory foam pads with liners are present on beds. Get a good nights rest while on your getaway, and still enjoy your outdoor cooking, fishing and star gazing. During inclement weather, a single serve K cup style coffee maker and Microwave are available to start your morning off. Bear Pond does have garbage bags upon request. But we ask you carry your refuse out with you due to the wildlife. Bear Pond is Furry Family Friendly. Just be mindful of possible wildlife if your Furry family members is off leash.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from 
$36
 / night
95%
(55)

Home Afarm

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Seaman, OH
Our little hobby farm was procured in December 2021. While we're just getting started our new home, we hope you'll enjoy sharing the orchard, meadows, forest, and swimming pond with us. "Roads go ever ever on, under cloud and under star. Yet feet that wandering have gone turn at last to home afar." Learn more about this land: Come relax atop the Appalachian foothills of southern Ohio. Enveloped in the heart of Tranquility Wilderness Area, our 11 acres has a mix of native pawpaw, peach, pear, and persimmon trees, deciduous forest, cedar woods, wild meadows, a small swimming pond, and a large, accessible field for ample flat for tents and room to play. Trails through the woods are being worked on, and facilities expanded as the seasons pass. Mellow nature’s soundtrack of birds, crickets, and frogs and enjoy an incredibly clear view of the night sky. Hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, hunting, swimming, and more are available at several state parks and historical sites like within 10-30 minutes of the farm. Amish country is likewise near at hand with several bakeries, markets, furniture shops, and greenhouses. Our primitive sites are spaced for privacy, with a gravel parking area near the cottage and additional field parking is available near the road on the opposite site of the main house. While most sites are walk-in only, the upper field sites may be able to be parked near and the Lower Meadow, Boneyard, and Oak Grove may be able to be driven to, as weather and site conditions permit.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cooking equipment
from 
$19.20
 / night
93%
(14)

Salt Creek Camp at Sunnyvale Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents240 acres · Chauncey, OH
Sunnyvale Farm est. 1949 - is a 240 acre tree and grain farm nestled in the foothills of Southeast Ohio and situated along the Hocking River. Almost 200 acres of the farm is forested with many changes in elevation. This is a great place to sit back and relax or use as a base camp for your exploration of nature. Just 3 minutes from the Bailey mountain bike trails and the Hockhocking Adena bikeway. We are also 30 minutes from the Hocking Hills or 15 minutes from Strouds Run State Park and if you are a little more adventurous, you are welcome to hike the farm with many uphill climbs or an easier hike to see the little grotto. If going into town is more your speed, Athens is a few minutes away and you can be on the campus of Ohio University in less than 10 minutes without having to leave paved roads.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$18
 / night
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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$42
 / night
100%
(301)

Todd’s Fork Adventures

5 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Morrow, OH
This property was the original location of Todd’s Fork Bluegrass Festivals back in the 70’s and is directly on Todd’s Fork with 1/2 mile of River frontage. We reside within the Village of Morrow, walking distance to restaurants and stores. The little Miami Bike Trail is approximately 1/4 mile from our entrance. This property is tucked away and you wouldn’t even know you’re close to town once you’re on site. Valley Vineyards is right down the road to enjoy a bottle of wine and cook your own steak dinner nights. Take a trip to visit Fort Ancient with a day hike. A Native American earthworks complex, the largest hilltop enclosure in the world and soon to be a World Heritage site! Enjoy some canoeing on the Little Miami River a State and National scenic river which is within walking distance. We have kayaks on location for the kids to play in the creek and creeks to hike with numerous fossils deposits. Southwestern Ohio is famous for its Ordovician fossil deposits. Kings Island is approximately 20 minute drive and the Ohio renaissance Festival is near. Caesars creek state park in Cowan lake state park is within a short drive. Smallmouth Bass fishing is awesome on Todd’s Fork and we have plenty of area to Wade fish.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$40
 / night

Star Hosts in Ohio

Dog-friendly getaways

Value Prop
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 swimming guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience! With over 800 options in Ohio that offer swimming, you're sure to find your ideal outdoor getaway. Whether you're looking for a peaceful lake or a refreshing river, we've got you covered. Take a dip at campsites like Heritage Farms (976 reviews), Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), or The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews) and enjoy the serene waters. With an average price per night of $37 and options as low as $15, you can choose a campsite that fits your budget. Plus, popular amenities like cooking equipment, campfires, and toilets will make your stay comfortable. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also enjoy activities like whitewater paddling, surfing, or off-roading (OHV). So, pack your swimwear and get ready to dive into an unforgettable camping experience in Ohio!

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2024 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.