The best camping in Ohio

·

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% (15.5K) 6,015 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

Camping at Heritage Farms

1. Camping at Heritage Farms

97%
(2661)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Turkey Hollow Campground

2. The Turkey Hollow Campground

93%
(674)
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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Lake at the Flying J Farm

3. The Lake at the Flying J Farm

98%
(1405)
Johnstown, OH · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Hope State Park

4. Lake Hope State Park

100%
(13)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
Leftovers of an abandoned mine give Lake Hope State Park its rustic charm, where a nearly 3,000-acre lake provides ample opportunity for outdoor fun in the sun. Seven hiking paths and eight biking trails mean you'll have multiple chances to discover the steep gorges that characterize this densely forested area. Hunt in the adjacent Zaleski State Forest or catch some crappie or bluegill in the expansive lake for some fresher than fresh dinner. If you're not in the mood for cooking your catch or devouring another can of baked beans, consider moseying over to Lake Hope Lodge, which will treat your palate to hickory smoked barbecue and smoked meats and sides by the pound. Cushy beaches, interpretive center exhibits, and a variety of ball courts will burn those calories off in no time.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Maumee Bay State Park

5. Maumee Bay State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Leafy Oaks Campground Inc

6. Leafy Oaks Campground Inc

Clyde, OH · 67 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Leafy Oaks Campground, a hidden gem nestled between Toledo and Cleveland. This picturesque campground spans 80 scenic acres, providing a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With options for overnight, weekly, monthly, and seasonal camping, Leafy Oaks caters to all types of adventurers seeking a peaceful retreat. The campground is designed to offer privacy and tranquility, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring nearby natural features and swimming holes. After a day of adventure, unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the best of the region. At Leafy Oaks, you’ll find not just a place to camp, but a community that embraces the spirit of the outdoors. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in this ideal setting, where memories are made and nature thrives.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
The Pleasant Valley Farm

7. The Pleasant Valley Farm

99%
(867)
Lucas, OH · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fruitdale Farm

8. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1243)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Riverside Adventures

9. Riverside Adventures

97%
(211)
Morrow, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Join us at Riverside Adventures for your next getaway. We are located on a 67 acre farm located on the Little Miami River in the heart of Warren County Ohio, also known as "Ohio's playground". We have 4 camp sites total, all with with river front access. Each site has its own stone patio, fire ring, and picnic table, with other amenities also available. We welcome both small and large groups and can help you plan events here such as family reunions, bachelor(ette) parties, and corporate retreats. With one canoe livery within two miles of us (Little Miami Canoe), you can drop your canoe or kayak in upstream and make your campsite a pit stop before getting picked up downstream by their shuttles. You can also rent a tube from us and go up and down our property or hang out on your tube anchored by the beach. We can also shuttle you upstream on Saturdays and Sundays. You can hike on our property to get scenic views of the Little Miami River Valley or spend time exploring Halls Creek (just down the street), the Fort Ancient Mounds, and others. We know other special local spots we can let you in on, too. We are just a 1/2 mile from the Little Miami Bike Trail and close to Caesar's Creek, Cowan Lake, YMCA's Camp Kearn, and Camp Joy. Plain Folk Music Cafe, Fresh to Morrow, Valley Vineyards, and Little River Cafe, are also short drives if you want to grab a bite to eat and vibe on some cool, local hangouts. We're just a 15-minute drive from King's Island and an hour or less drive from Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus. It's great out here, ya'll--join us! We look forward to helping you with your next outdoor adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Salt Fork State Park

10. 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shawnee State Park OH

11. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
South Bass Island State Park

12. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Van Buren State Park

13. 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

14. Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

99%
(627)
Marengo, OH · 44 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Grins & Pickin's CampFarm was created to share the outdoors with others. Growing food & flowers, camping & hiking is what we like to do. And we like sharing these activities. Our family oriented outdoor recreation facility offers primitive camping, $PYO$ produce during the growing season, homesteading activities & nature-based programs. The peaceful 20-acre country farm has food gardens, a frog habitat pool, a barnyard for the chickens & ducks, a bluegill fishin' pond, a pollinator maze, a prairie garden, and an outdoor stage. After crossing a winding creek into 10 acres of woods, you may see deer, turkey, fox, coyote, mink, eagles & barred owls. In early spring, the peepers are peeping, wildflowers are abundant & the vernal pools welcome the wood frogs, salamanders and fairy shrimp. Summer brings on the bullfrogs, butterflies, dragonflies and fireflies. Fall is a great time to pull grapevine to make wreaths & to build stick forts in the woods. We cater to the tent camper so that we can hear frogs & owls instead of generators. But, there is an RV section up front for those with quiet generators with several feet of gravel under the grass to hold the weight of your camper. We charge by the carload & there are different rates for driving back toward the woods for camping depending on the number of wheels & the weight of your vehicle (a factor on the wear & tear on the land). We believe in going outside to play, growing & eating fresh food, strengthening family bonds and promoting the awareness of our natural resources. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING: 1) The speed limit is 5 mph as soon as you enter the property (kids & dogs are quick to dart in front of you). 2) As a state registered campground, it is mandatory that you check in at the house to fill out a Registration Form before heading to your campsite. 3) No glass allowed anywhere on the property (we don't want our feet or paws cut open and can do without flat tires). 4) Children under 18 must be attended to at all times for their safety (the frog pool is 10' deep, the pond is 8-10' deep depending on rains, and the creek can turn into a churning river). Thank you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Little Darby Outdoors

15. Little Darby Outdoors

99%
(171)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

16. One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

96%
(215)
Oregonia, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Our campsite is part of a land restoration project of One Earth Collaborative, LLC. This organization consists of artists, naturalists, musicians, and land stewards who are passionate about restoring our Earth to it's full healing. The property is 12 acres that stretches from the remains of an old bridge to the Oregonia Road bridge. There is a field with an organic garden, sunflowers growing and towards the river there are giant sycamores, cottonwoods and more. You may choose to pull your car into one of the field spots or park and walk into the garden forest and camp riverside.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

17. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%
(345)
Fostoria, OH · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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 Lexi and Little Bits can be visited while they graze in the pasture. There are chickens and Brindle the barn kitty. 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The land.

18. The land.

98%
(100)
Danville, OH · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
We've got plenty of paths going around the property if you'd like to walk around in a somewhat dense forest. Sometimes a blacksmith is working you may catch a show but there's metal, stone, and wood art to buy all the time. The spots you'll most likely be camping are well-maintained riverside spots or if you're up for a hike there are caves where you can camp in somewhat untouched wilderness besides some logging trails and old campsites from others.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Riverside Camping

19. Riverside Camping

96%
(503)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Woody Acres

20. Woody Acres

99%
(111)
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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