The best camping in Ohio

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

96% (17.1K) • 6,296 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

The Lake at the Flying J Farm

1. The Lake at the Flying J Farm

98%
(991)
Johnstown, OH · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
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). Trash. This sustainable farm has no garbage hauling, please carry away your trash.
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The Turkey Hollow Campground

2. The Turkey Hollow Campground

92%
(739)
Millersburg, OH · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Turkey Hollow is nestled in the rolling hills of Holmes County Ohio. We are right on the edge of the largest Amish settlement in the nation. The primitive campground is in the corner of a small 40 acre farm owned by Matt Polcyn. He started the campground 13 years ago because of his love for nature and real camping. He enjoys traveling in many places in the States and the Caribbean islands and loves finding places off of the beaten path and not commercialized. Because of his interest and love for primitive camping he decided to open the campground in order to provide the same opportunity as a getaway primitive camping location that he tries to find when he travels. We now just added a shower in the trees, warm water rinse off area. (this is available between Memorial Day and until it get too cold again in the fall) We have WiFi available in most of the camp now. It is Turkey Hollow Guest. Text Matt for the password
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Fruitdale Farm

3. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(933)
Bainbridge, OH · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. FIREWOOD and seasonal farm goods are available for purchase at a self-serve stand (several payment options available). There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved (go to sauna to reserve a time). 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 (not flushing). A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN (with the exception of site #1). ***Please take note that this is private property and the host lives on site. If you are looking for a place to be loud and party into the night, this is not the place for you. If you are looking to spend some quality time in nature, welcome. There are rules. *** The gazebo kitchen is NOT COMMUNAL as it is connected to the Fern Cabin (Fern cabin guests have exclusive access to the kitchen). The kitchen IS included for those who book "The Whole Darn Place".
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Maumee Bay State Park

4. Maumee Bay State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family
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Electrical hookup
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Salt Fork State Park

5. Salt Fork State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Ohio · 23 sites
Hike, golf, or get on the water at Ohio’s largest state park.
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Camping at Heritage Farms

6. Camping at Heritage Farms

97%
(2923)
Peninsula, OH · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
Heritage Farms, located in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, is a 5th-generation, family-owned Christmas tree farm founded in 1848. Camping began ten years ago. We offer six shelters and nine primitive tent sites. We are incredibly close to the various trails located across the Cuyahoga Valley. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK! 1.WE DO NOT ALLOW FIREWOOD to be brought onto Heritage Farms property due to the potential risk to our crops and according to State and Federal Regulations. Firewood bundles may be purchased when making your reservations or upon arrival at the farm. 2. No vehicles may be driven into the camping area at any time. 3. All vehicles must remain in the designated parking lots 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 wheeled camping on Heritage Farms property. 6. Due to Summit County Health regulations, we cannot provide water. Please bring your own drinking and washing water. Or you may purchase 1-gallon jugs of water when you reserve your site or upon arrival. Our restrooms are porta Johns. 7. Tent sites (labeled A-J) have space for up to 3 tents. Shelter sites (numbered 1-6) have room for up to 2 additional tents. All sites are limited to a maximum of 6 campers 8. Heritage Farms is a working Farm. Please be aware that tractors and other machinery are in use during daylight hours 9. Check-in time is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you’re arriving after 7:00 p.m., please let us know. Checkout time is 10:00 a.m. Please use the dumpster for all trash. Gray water stations are available for the disposal of used water. 10. Only campers registered to HipCamp are permitted to overnight on Heritage Farms property. We do not allow parties and underage or excessive use of alcohol at any time. 11. DOG POLICY: We welcome dogs who have received prior permission from the farm owners. A dog registration form including proof of rabies vaccination must be filled out upon arrival. Unvaccinated dogs are not permitted on the property. All dogs MUST always be on a leash and in the physical control of their owner(s). No pets may be left unattended at any time.
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Yourway Camp

7. Yourway Camp

98%
(195)
South Bloomingville, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Our camp sites are located in the Hocking Hills Region in the Appalachian Mountain foothills. The campsites are in densely wooded, hilly, terrain. Our 26 acre, residential property, is a great year round destination to get back to nature. Located in the Hocking Hills are several state parks. Hocking Hills State Park Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Whispering Pines, Conkles Hollow, and Rock House, and Tar Hollow are all within 10 miles. You can enjoy hiking our trails, sitting around the fire ring and relaxing after visiting the amazing Hocking Hills Region . So many options for fun on your trip to Hocking Hills. If you enjoy canoeing, horseback riding, shopping, or a trip to an observatory, Hocking County has something for everyone. Fire wood moisture is not guaranteed. Bring fire starters.
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Little Darby Outdoors

8. Little Darby Outdoors

99%
(205)
Galloway, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This is 13 acres in the Little Darby river valley. Lots of space to choose from tents to RVs and campers. Self contained campers only. Flush toilets and shower are available in the agricultural building. Clean and comfortable with country charm. Clean water is available. Free phone and bicycle charging station. Three miles to McDonalds and local businesses. Surrounded by the Columbus Metro Park and 2 miles to the Ohio to Erie bicycle trail. Bring your own kayak and enjoy the beauty of the Little Darby creek.
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Showers
Nature's Way

9. Nature's Way

98%
(267)
Rockbridge, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Visiting the Hocking Hills ? No interest in crowded campgrounds ? you have found 75 acres mostly wooded with trails. Close to and easy access from US 33 There are 4 primitive and secluded campsites around the property for tent camping. I can transport you and your gear to the remote sites. ATV's and Horses are also welcome on the property. Firewood will be provided for free and in abundant amount. The site on top of the hill is a very secluded and mowed crest of hill surrounded by dogwood trees and the invasive Autumn Olive bushes, making this the most desirable site for getting full body sun, and shade when wanted in complete privacy. The site above the Rockbridge Winery is a secluded, mowed clearing in the mature woods, making this a preferred site for privacy, shade and easy access to the winery. There are also 2 sites in the valley that allow you to be near your vehicle, one out in the open sun and near the driveway while the other is in the coolest spot on the property with a very nice rock formation to admire and secluded for privacy. While on my property, clothing is optional but respect for other campers is expected. Hiking the trails naked rarely encounters other people. Sunny Rest Skyview can accomodate an RV with no hookup, generator is allowed. This is a valley and may get soft after heavy rain. Please keep wheels near the lane if there's any question to the ground conditions and maneuvering your vehicle, please contact me. Apple product GPS will not get you to this location, use the pin on Google Maps.
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Picnic table
Shawnee State Park OH

10. Shawnee State Park OH

100%
(5)
State park in Ohio · 24 sites
Nestled in the greater Shawnee State Forest, Shawnee State Park brings 1,095 acres of scenic Appalachian foothills. Considered one of the most photogenic areas in the state, we have a feeling you'll enjoy the lush valleys and wooded hills. Lace up those old boots and hike one of six trails, or bring your trusty steed for a couple beautiful bridle trails. Nature geeks will love to sneak a peek at the Nature Center, which is chock full of educational information about the surrounding area. With boating, fishing, sport courts, and even an 18-hole golf course, it would almost be a challenge not to stay active in the Little Smokies.
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South Bass Island State Park

11. South Bass Island State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Ohio · 24 sites
White cliffs and sparkling blue waters make for a warm invite from South Bass Island State Park. Try to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or painted turtle from your boat, or just listen to the waves lap against the stony shore of Lake Erie. Bring that license to catch some fresh fish, where a cleaning station makes dinner prep just a little less messy. Once you're ready to get your adventure on, seek out the glacial grooves near the camping area or ice skate or fish the frozen waters when the frost takes over. Located on the north side of the island, Put-in-Bay is only a short distance away, along with all the restaurants and shopping you could hope for.
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Van Buren State Park

12. Van Buren State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
Frolfing, anyone? Van Buren State Park is the ideal spot to flick that wrist and beat your friends at yet another disc golfing tournament. Nestled among crops of soy, wheat, and corn, consider this a little farmland oasis for you and all your best buds. Channel that inner Legolas and go bow-hunting, or catch a wide variety of fish from carp to bluegill at Van Buren Lake. Motor boat it up or row around old-school on the waters of the lake, the choice is yours. With multiple horseback and hiking trails available as well, we're confident you'll love the generous serving of activities available for the campers here. Did we mention there's a butterfly gazebo and volleyball courts as well? Save yourself the trouble of contemplating, and just book it now. There's no way your frolfing team will resent you for it.
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West Branch State Park

13. West Branch State Park

100%
(11)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
From jet skis to snowmobiles, this thrill-seeker’s paradise has unlimited horsepower.
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Barrel Run Creek

14. Barrel Run Creek

97%
(304)
Rootstown, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
🌲 Barrel Run Creek Campsites Private wooded sites for tent and vehicle campers—firewood included! Looking for a quiet, secluded spot to unwind? Barrel Run Creek Campsites offer deeply wooded, ultra-private sites perfect for tent camping or vehicle camping (car, truck, or SUV). Each site comes stocked with firewood, a picnic table, and a trash can—so you can settle in and enjoy the outdoors with ease. The property is bordered by Barrel Run Creek and the NSF railroad, giving the area a peaceful, natural vibe with a touch of character. You won’t find crowds or close neighbors here—just the sounds of the woods and the occasional train in the distance. Located just a few miles from Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir and Walborn Reservoir if you want additional hiking or other state park activities. What you’ll love: 🌳 Super private, wooded campsites 🚗 Tent and car/truck camping welcome 🔥 Firewood included with every booking 🧺 Picnic table and trash can at each site 🚶‍♂️ Quick drive to two state park reservoirs 🚂 Peaceful settings, some with creek and rail backdrop Whether you're here to unplug, explore, or just enjoy a quiet night under the stars, Barrel Run Creek Campsites offer a simple, peaceful base for your next outdoor adventure. Thank you!
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Woody Acres

15. Woody Acres

99%
(142)
New Plymouth, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Woody is our peaceful hilltop home nestled amongst the scenic hills in southeast Ohio between Hocking Hills State Park and Zaleski State Forest. Enjoy staying on a hilltop meadow filled with a mix of wildflowers and song birds. The meadow is surrounded by a tall mixed hardwood forest where campers are free to walk the mowed path through the woods. Come nightfall, you will be graced with some of the darkest skies in the state of Ohio. On a clear moonless night, the milky way galaxy comes into view and shooting stars are not an uncommon site. If you're lucky, our friendly black cat will grace you with his presence, he's a legend and likes to snuggle:) We offer a variety of accommodations depending on the type of adventure you are seeking. Choose between staying in the off grid school bus tiny home, the 20 foot "glamper" with outdoor kitchen, the Hickory Hut which offers more "creature comforts" or simply pitch a tent or park a smaller camper in the open meadow campsite for a night of stargazing. Woody is located within 25 minutes of many of the areas attractions: 15 minutes to Ash Cave 20 minutes to Cedar Falls 25 minutes to Old Man's Cave 20 minutes to Lake Hope 10 minutes to McArthur 25 minutes to Logan Here at Woody we honor our place in the natural world and are humbled by the beauty that surrounds us. We see ourselves as a part of nature and work towards having a deeper connection with the earth and our place in it by applying caretaker attitude and careful technological use and observation. Our mission is to leave bounty in our wake. If you would like to dive deeper into your own connection with nature, consider going on a nature walk with Austin during your stay. Check it out in the add-ons. We would love for you to come stay with us and be a part of a healing landscape where you can disconnect from your day to day, reconnect with nature and experience the Woody Acres magic. Hope to see you soon! Austin and Kate
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Camping with Unruly Goats

16. Camping with Unruly Goats

98%
(302)
Groveport, OH · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Harrison Farm is a working livestock farm, with goats, sheep, chickens, rabbits, ducks, a horse, a donkey, and super friendly barn cats. We host many events, including yoga classes, tours, on-Farm dinners, and private parties. We are located thirty minutes from downtown Columbus, just outside of historic Canal Winchester, and only five minutes from BrewDog. The hills of southeastern Ohio are close by, with Lancaster only twenty minutes away, and just an hour’s drive to Hocking Hills or Tar Hollow. We welcome you to relax in solitude, or join us to learn more about farming. Please note: when you arrive, please text and we will assist you with parking. Harrison Farm is a working farm, with all the real sights, sounds, and smells of a working livestock farm. We love sharing the farm with our visitors, and we want to make sure our guests know that camping at a farm means that it will truly be a farm. The goats thank you for understanding and respecting their home!
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Picnic table
Carriage House Farm

17. Carriage House Farm

96%
(131)
North Bend, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We are an Ohio Century Farm located in historic North Bend, Ohio. Single-family owned since 1855, our farm is located only 20 minutes outside of downtown Cincinnati but feels as if you are in the country side. Our campsites are located within a easy 5 minute walk of our on-farm distillery, winery, market, and food truck. Part of our 300 acre property is part of the conservation easement that makes up the "Oxbow," a migratory bird and waterfowl area that is popular among birdwatchers in the spring and autumn seasons. We have a large eagle population along with a host of other raptors.
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Hocking Hills Adventures

18. Hocking Hills Adventures

Logan, OH · 50 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for an amazing camping experience in the Hocking Hills? Riverbend Campground is a quiet, riverfront escape along the Hocking River. Designed for guests who value space, scenery, and simplicity, it offers a relaxed setting that feels away from the crowds—yet close to everything the Hocking Hills has to offer. With direct river access, many campsites sit just steps from the water, making it easy to relax along the bank, fish, or set out for a day on the river. Wake to the sound of flowing water, explore nearby trails or float the river, then unwind in the evening by the campfire. Choose from 30-amp and 50-amp RV sites or large primitive campsites perfect for tents and small groups. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend or an outdoor adventure, Riverbend is the perfect basecamp for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and exploring the Hocking Hills.
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One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

19. One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

95%
(239)
Oregonia, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Welcome to One Earth Collaborative, a 12-acre land restoration project where nature, community, and creativity come together. Our land is cared for by artists, naturalists, musicians, educators, and land stewards who share a passion for restoring ecosystems and creating meaningful connections with the natural world. The property stretches from the remains of the historic bridge to the Oregonia Road bridge along the Little Miami River. You’ll find open fields, an organic garden, seasonal sunflowers, and a beautiful riverside forest filled with towering sycamores, cottonwoods, and other native trees. All campsites are primitive and designed to immerse you in nature. Trails begin near the firewood area and lead to tent sites tucked throughout the forest and along the river. Our central fire pit serves as a shared gathering space for campfires, music, conversation, and community. A staircase provides access to the river for all guests to enjoy. To help everyone have a peaceful experience, please set up your tent within a reasonable distance of the main fire pit while still allowing neighboring campers privacy. We ask that all guests respect the land, fellow campers, and the quiet beauty of this shared space. Whether you’re here to unplug, paddle the river, explore the woods, listen to birdsong, or simply relax beneath the trees, we hope you’ll feel at home here.
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Riverside Camping

20. Riverside Camping

96%
(419)
Port Clinton, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We have a kayak and canoe livery called Portage River Paddling Company. We are nestled on 94 acres on the Portage River. You will be camping in the back of our property along the Portage River. You will be just a 5 minute walk from renting kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, gem mining, axe throwing, cornhole, giant Jenga, goats, Gizmo the 160 pound Sulcata Tortoise, Jasper the iguana and more!
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Ohio camping guide

Where to go

Great Lakes Plains

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

Till Plains

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

Appalachian Plateau

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

Bluegrass Region

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Ohio is an excellent destination for camping, offering a diverse range of landscapes and outdoor activities. The state is home to numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds that cater to both tent and RV campers. Some popular camping spots in Ohio include Hocking Hills State Park, Mohican State Park, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You can also find unique camping experiences like backwoods camping and tent camping in the woods on Hipcamp.

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Ohio. Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds and camping areas on public lands such as state parks, state forests, and wildlife areas. Additionally, private campgrounds and Hipcamp properties are available for camping. It is important to follow the rules and regulations of the area where you plan to camp and to obtain any necessary permits or permissions.

For a list of camping options in Ohio, you can visit Hipcamp or explore specific areas like Cleveland and Dayton.

While East Harbor State Park campground is a large campground in Ohio, the largest campground in the state is actually Indian Lake State Park Campground, which has over 800 sites. East Harbor State Park campground is located on the shores of Lake Erie and offers more than 500 campsites, including electric and non-electric sites for tents and RVs. The park provides various amenities, such as restrooms, showers, a camp store, a beach, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

In Ohio, whether you need a permit to camp depends on the type of camping and the location. For most state parks and campgrounds, you do not need a specific permit; however, you will need to make a reservation and pay any associated fees. Reservations can be made through the Ohio State Parks Reservation System or by contacting the park directly. For primitive or dispersed camping in Ohio's state forests, you may need a permit depending on the location and duration of your stay. It's essential to check with the specific state forest or location before embarking on your trip. For private camping options, you can explore and book camping sites through websites like Hipcamp, which provides information on various Ohio camping locations, including tent camping, tent in the woods, and primitive camping. Always check the specific rules and regulations of the location you plan to camp in to ensure you have the required permits or reservations.

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