Lake Camping in Athens, Ohio, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
—
Ohio
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Athens

94% (615 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Athens

Available this weekend

Under $50

92%

(43)

Buckeye Lake Winery

7 sites · RVs16 acres · Thornville, OH

Learn more about this land:There are seven graveled drives located in the woods at Buckeye Lake Winery. Only self contained RV's are allowed, no tent camping. You will have access to Buckeye Lake. There is a kayak located near Buckeye Lake Winery that guests can use. Camp fires are permitted. Please take all trash with you. Restrooms are not provided at campsites, however there are facilities in the winery when open. Enjoy Buckeye Lake Winery and Restaurant during open hours of operation, see website for more specific information regarding hours of operation, menu and band schedules. Buckeye Lake has multiple bars and restaurants located around the lake, once considered the "Playground of Ohio". It's an undiscovered gem if you've never been here.

Bare Cove

4 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Ravenswood, WV

If you are looking for a party you found it. We have no quiet hours, we do get loud and have a great time on the weekends. Its not uncommon for beer pong or card games to go into the early hours. Not the best idea to bring small children to a rager but were open to all ages and backgrounds, anybody that enjoys making friends and having fun on the lake. All guests must sign personal injury waivers to cover our 6. So about the property, its 120+ acres with a 5 acre man made lake that features blue waters, a beach area and tikibar. We have atv trails, private camp sites and group sites. Enjoy the day floating in the clear blue water, fishing (separate pond) or hiking. Our lake also features a launch pillow for blasting your friends up to 20 ft in the air! We also have inflatable cabanas on the water for rent if you want some R&R. Thanks for looking, would love to host you and your party out at the lake.

Geneva Hills

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

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

100%

(104)

My Spot Private Campsite

1 site · Tent80 acres · Dexter , OH

Nestled under the shade bequeathed by a tall canopy of deciduous trees and alongside a gentle flowing brook, lies a forest opening perfect for immersing in nature’s solitude. Our private campsite is a short walk (3-4 minutes) from parking where you’ll find a footpath that empties out onto a level forest understory, surrounded by trees ideal for pitching tents and hammocks. Our campsite is equipped with the necessities: a firepit with a removable grill, a large table, and your own private outhouse with a composting toilet. Trails leading from the campsite will usher you short distances to our best stargazing hilltop, for playing in the shallow creek running alongside our campsite, as well as shaded forest and ridgetop views. Our pond, equipped with a dock, ladder and seating is a favorite short 7 minute hike for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing. For longer hikes, any trail will connect you to our larger network of maintained trails over hill and dale, through shaded forests and open (mowed) pasture trails and farm-life views across our 80 acre farm. To make your packing lighter and your stay more comfortable, we offer the following "extra items" at an additional cost: - Firewood bundles (unlimited) - 5 gallons of water (or less) in jugs with handy pour spout - Charged battery pack with plug and USB receptables - Stringed twinkle lights - prehung (we do the hanging before you arrive) * must be ordered with our charged battery pack or bring own power source. All purchased "extras" will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Please see the "extras" for more detailed information and pricing.

Fish Farm Camp

5 sites · RVs, Tents128 acres · Pleasant City, OH

We have a beautiful 20 acre lake. It's 60 ft deep with crystal clear water and is great for swimming and fishing. Kayaking welcome too. We also have a couple other ponds available for fishing as well. We raise fresh water prawn and bluegill in the summertime, so late september we have fresh shrimp available. Lots of waterfowl and deer here to see.

12 top lakeside campgrounds near Athens

100%

(104)

My Spot Private Campsite

1 site · Tent80 acres · Dexter , OH

Nestled under the shade bequeathed by a tall canopy of deciduous trees and alongside a gentle flowing brook, lies a forest opening perfect for immersing in nature’s solitude. Our private campsite is a short walk (3-4 minutes) from parking where you’ll find a footpath that empties out onto a level forest understory, surrounded by trees ideal for pitching tents and hammocks. Our campsite is equipped with the necessities: a firepit with a removable grill, a large table, and your own private outhouse with a composting toilet. Trails leading from the campsite will usher you short distances to our best stargazing hilltop, for playing in the shallow creek running alongside our campsite, as well as shaded forest and ridgetop views. Our pond, equipped with a dock, ladder and seating is a favorite short 7 minute hike for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing. For longer hikes, any trail will connect you to our larger network of maintained trails over hill and dale, through shaded forests and open (mowed) pasture trails and farm-life views across our 80 acre farm. To make your packing lighter and your stay more comfortable, we offer the following "extra items" at an additional cost: - Firewood bundles (unlimited) - 5 gallons of water (or less) in jugs with handy pour spout - Charged battery pack with plug and USB receptables - Stringed twinkle lights - prehung (we do the hanging before you arrive) * must be ordered with our charged battery pack or bring own power source. All purchased "extras" will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Please see the "extras" for more detailed information and pricing.

100%

(113)

Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

2 sites · Lodging50 acres · Thornville, OH

Our farm has been in the family for over 50 years. My Cherokee grandmother purchased the farm with the intention of giving each of her children property. We have been raising bison here since 2008. We chose the name Cherokee Valley to honor my heritage and the gift of this farm by my grandmother and mother. We created this tipi experience to share that gift with you! Enjoy a night in our spacious 22 foot tipi. We provide a comfortable queen platform bed for your convenience. You must provide sleeping bags, linens , blankets etc. The tipi can sleep up to 6 people, 2 on the queen bed we provide, with ample room for additional cots or air mattresses that you provide. We have cots available to rent as an add on. . You may also pitch additional tents or hang hammocks in the trees with room for up to 10 people in all. Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a working bison farm with bison, honeybees, chickens and peafowl. We are a certified Wildlife Habitat and Monarch Way Station. Enjoy our beautiful hiking trails through the rolling hills of our ranch. We have a plethora of bird species, butterflies and wildflowers to delight nature lovers. After hiking the trails you can splash around in the pristine creek that borders our property (we recommend water shoes). Take in a gorgeous sunset over our farm, enjoy a wood fired dinner cooked over the provided fire pit with grill. The sounds of hoot owls will lull you to sleep and when you wake, enjoy the stained glass glow through the beautiful tipi. We are close to several wineries, breweries and recreational areas (kayaking, canoeing, golfing, biking) as well as Legend Valley concert venue. We are a short drive to Buckeye Lake, Dillion Dam, and Hocking Hills. We have a selection of grass fed bison available in our on-site farm store.

Geneva Hills

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

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

Fish Farm Camp

5 sites · RVs, Tents128 acres · Pleasant City, OH

We have a beautiful 20 acre lake. It's 60 ft deep with crystal clear water and is great for swimming and fishing. Kayaking welcome too. We also have a couple other ponds available for fishing as well. We raise fresh water prawn and bluegill in the summertime, so late september we have fresh shrimp available. Lots of waterfowl and deer here to see.

96%

(106)

WALKAbOUT Creek Campground

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents132 acres · Chandlersville, OH

-Located in Blue Rock State Forest. Campers are welcome to hike to their hearts content! - Located 10 minutes from Blue Rock's swimming beach at Cutler Lake. - Located 20 minutes from Columbus Zoo's "The Wilds" Safari. - Access to the Blue Rock State Forest equine trails. Over 25 miles of trails. Walking them also allowed! - 3 stocked ponds for fishing - Our own little "Y" Bridge like the notable bridge located in the nearby city of Zanesville. - Communal area for socializing/events. Free to use for campers, provided it is not privately booked for an event.

Bare Cove

4 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Ravenswood, WV

If you are looking for a party you found it. We have no quiet hours, we do get loud and have a great time on the weekends. Its not uncommon for beer pong or card games to go into the early hours. Not the best idea to bring small children to a rager but were open to all ages and backgrounds, anybody that enjoys making friends and having fun on the lake. All guests must sign personal injury waivers to cover our 6. So about the property, its 120+ acres with a 5 acre man made lake that features blue waters, a beach area and tikibar. We have atv trails, private camp sites and group sites. Enjoy the day floating in the clear blue water, fishing (separate pond) or hiking. Our lake also features a launch pillow for blasting your friends up to 20 ft in the air! We also have inflatable cabanas on the water for rent if you want some R&R. Thanks for looking, would love to host you and your party out at the lake.

Buckeye Lake Winery

7 sites · RVs16 acres · Thornville, OH

Learn more about this land:There are seven graveled drives located in the woods at Buckeye Lake Winery. Only self contained RV's are allowed, no tent camping. You will have access to Buckeye Lake. There is a kayak located near Buckeye Lake Winery that guests can use. Camp fires are permitted. Please take all trash with you. Restrooms are not provided at campsites, however there are facilities in the winery when open. Enjoy Buckeye Lake Winery and Restaurant during open hours of operation, see website for more specific information regarding hours of operation, menu and band schedules. Buckeye Lake has multiple bars and restaurants located around the lake, once considered the "Playground of Ohio". It's an undiscovered gem if you've never been here.

93%

(7)

Creek side Camping

4 sites · Tents2 acres · Washington Township, OH

Learn more about this land:This is a new site we just listed. Surrounded by woods. Some mowed areas view of rock ledges. Nice creeks on property. Lots of wildlife. Peaceful pick your own spot. Primitive camping set up where you want Easy drive to Hocking Hills Lake Alma Lake Katherine and Lake Hope Leo Petroglyphs nearby kayaking horse back riding Pick your own spot relax. Set up creek side or wherever you want. Private. Build a fire pitch a tent visit lots of local attractions. Nice view of rock ledges. Relax and enjoy nature.

Kickapoo Kamping

2 sites · TentsZanesville, OH

This location in Ohio is about a 10-minute walk to Dillon Dam, Reservoir and Lake! The road that was there was called Yelp Town Hollow Road. The road that this camp was on had to be raised when they put the dam in, they even had to move the one room school house! Black Hand Gorge preserve isn't far from the camp, lots of hiking and bicycle trails. Dillon State Park is 10-15 miles away with trails for horses, walking and biking. About 3,000 acres of State and Federal Land is right in our backyard! Learn more about this land:Set your tent up in a wooded area or near a stream. Great star gazing and forest bathing. The area is in the Yelptown Hollow Valley, the road and one room school house Yelptown School are reminiscent of a bygone era. The old road bed is near camping and old school house has relocated to a site nearby. Come enjoy the laid back ambience of the area! Peaceful, solitude, nearby stream.

Saved 2 times

Big R's Venue

5 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Rose Farm, OH

50 acres total located in the Appalachian foothills. Just a few miles down the road from Wildcat Hollow and the Helmick mill covered bridge. On site, there is a 3 acre spring fed pond with fish. Trails, fields and wooded camping. Atvs are welcome. Swimming at your own risk. Boats are allowed. You may also use the boats on site. Please be aware of stumps just below the waters surface throughout the entire pond. There are Indian mounds and markers nearby. Part of the site was also a coal mine in the 1950s.

100%

(31)

Addis Acres

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · New Concord, OH

Learn more about this land: Our camp spots are very easy to drive right up to. They are overlooking a small bit of woods. Wake up in the morning to birds chirping. The area has a large clearing for children to play. but the privacy you need to enjoy a nice evening around the campfire. There is a pond for fishing, and a nice deck that is avaliable to use. There is 25 acres here and you are welcome to use it for your enjoyment. We do have fencing to keep our horses in so please we ask to not climb over the fences as they will shock you as they are electric. You will see chickens goats, rabbits, horses, dogs, and cats on our hobby farm. The wildlife you may see include squirrels, deer and racoons fox etc. Located 2 miles from interstate 70 for easy access. NewConcord is just 3 1/2 miles down the road and is the home town of John Glenn you can visit his home place there, or pick up grocerys. Cambridge is the next town away at 8 miles and you can go shopping there, We are also near the Wilds, Blue Rock State Park, and Jesse Owens State park. Hope to see you soon!

100%

(3)

Scenic Hills - Amish Country

5 sites · RVs2 acres · Oak Hill, OH

Property is located about 2 miles from the small town of Oak Hill. The area has a Welsh heritage and offers a Welsh museum. Once a prominent brick manufacturing area. Today the area is home to a decent size Old Order Amish community. You will see horses and buggies daily and there are several Amish businesses open to the public including a huge greenhouse, a hardware and bait & tackle store and a bulk food store to name a few. Our area is also a popular stop for hunters of all types since we are close to Wayne National Forest and Cooper Hollow Wildlife area. We need to mention that pets are welcome but need to be on leash or contained at all times due to horses and other animals that are nearby. There is also 2 dogs who live on the property and are always on patrol :) They keep the monsters away but are welcoming to our guests! We look forward to seeing you soon!Learn more about this land:Small family owned camping area (4 spaces) located in southern Ohio in the heart of an Old Order Amish community. You will actually be located directly behind an amish home. Secluded area surrounded mostly by woods. Listen to the sounds of horse an buggy or take a short trip and enjoy the lake.

Star Hosts in Athens

100%

(251)

Fish Farm Camp

5 sites · RVs, Tents128 acres · Pleasant City, OH

We have a beautiful 20 acre lake. It's 60 ft deep with crystal clear water and is great for swimming and fishing. Kayaking welcome too. We also have a couple other ponds available for fishing as well. We raise fresh water prawn and bluegill in the summertime, so late september we have fresh shrimp available. Lots of waterfowl and deer here to see.

My Spot Private Campsite

1 site · Tent80 acres · Dexter , OH

Nestled under the shade bequeathed by a tall canopy of deciduous trees and alongside a gentle flowing brook, lies a forest opening perfect for immersing in nature’s solitude. Our private campsite is a short walk (3-4 minutes) from parking where you’ll find a footpath that empties out onto a level forest understory, surrounded by trees ideal for pitching tents and hammocks. Our campsite is equipped with the necessities: a firepit with a removable grill, a large table, and your own private outhouse with a composting toilet. Trails leading from the campsite will usher you short distances to our best stargazing hilltop, for playing in the shallow creek running alongside our campsite, as well as shaded forest and ridgetop views. Our pond, equipped with a dock, ladder and seating is a favorite short 7 minute hike for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing. For longer hikes, any trail will connect you to our larger network of maintained trails over hill and dale, through shaded forests and open (mowed) pasture trails and farm-life views across our 80 acre farm. To make your packing lighter and your stay more comfortable, we offer the following "extra items" at an additional cost: - Firewood bundles (unlimited) - 5 gallons of water (or less) in jugs with handy pour spout - Charged battery pack with plug and USB receptables - Stringed twinkle lights - prehung (we do the hanging before you arrive) * must be ordered with our charged battery pack or bring own power source. All purchased "extras" will be waiting at your campsite when you arrive. Please see the "extras" for more detailed information and pricing.

Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

2 sites · Lodging50 acres · Thornville, OH

Our farm has been in the family for over 50 years. My Cherokee grandmother purchased the farm with the intention of giving each of her children property. We have been raising bison here since 2008. We chose the name Cherokee Valley to honor my heritage and the gift of this farm by my grandmother and mother. We created this tipi experience to share that gift with you! Enjoy a night in our spacious 22 foot tipi. We provide a comfortable queen platform bed for your convenience. You must provide sleeping bags, linens , blankets etc. The tipi can sleep up to 6 people, 2 on the queen bed we provide, with ample room for additional cots or air mattresses that you provide. We have cots available to rent as an add on. . You may also pitch additional tents or hang hammocks in the trees with room for up to 10 people in all. Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a working bison farm with bison, honeybees, chickens and peafowl. We are a certified Wildlife Habitat and Monarch Way Station. Enjoy our beautiful hiking trails through the rolling hills of our ranch. We have a plethora of bird species, butterflies and wildflowers to delight nature lovers. After hiking the trails you can splash around in the pristine creek that borders our property (we recommend water shoes). Take in a gorgeous sunset over our farm, enjoy a wood fired dinner cooked over the provided fire pit with grill. The sounds of hoot owls will lull you to sleep and when you wake, enjoy the stained glass glow through the beautiful tipi. We are close to several wineries, breweries and recreational areas (kayaking, canoeing, golfing, biking) as well as Legend Valley concert venue. We are a short drive to Buckeye Lake, Dillion Dam, and Hocking Hills. We have a selection of grass fed bison available in our on-site farm store.

Addis Acres

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · New Concord, OH

Learn more about this land: Our camp spots are very easy to drive right up to. They are overlooking a small bit of woods. Wake up in the morning to birds chirping. The area has a large clearing for children to play. but the privacy you need to enjoy a nice evening around the campfire. There is a pond for fishing, and a nice deck that is avaliable to use. There is 25 acres here and you are welcome to use it for your enjoyment. We do have fencing to keep our horses in so please we ask to not climb over the fences as they will shock you as they are electric. You will see chickens goats, rabbits, horses, dogs, and cats on our hobby farm. The wildlife you may see include squirrels, deer and racoons fox etc. Located 2 miles from interstate 70 for easy access. NewConcord is just 3 1/2 miles down the road and is the home town of John Glenn you can visit his home place there, or pick up grocerys. Cambridge is the next town away at 8 miles and you can go shopping there, We are also near the Wilds, Blue Rock State Park, and Jesse Owens State park. Hope to see you soon!

Dog-friendly getaways

92%

(43)

Buckeye Lake Winery

7 sites · RVs16 acres · Thornville, OH

Learn more about this land:There are seven graveled drives located in the woods at Buckeye Lake Winery. Only self contained RV's are allowed, no tent camping. You will have access to Buckeye Lake. There is a kayak located near Buckeye Lake Winery that guests can use. Camp fires are permitted. Please take all trash with you. Restrooms are not provided at campsites, however there are facilities in the winery when open. Enjoy Buckeye Lake Winery and Restaurant during open hours of operation, see website for more specific information regarding hours of operation, menu and band schedules. Buckeye Lake has multiple bars and restaurants located around the lake, once considered the "Playground of Ohio". It's an undiscovered gem if you've never been here.

Kickapoo Kamping

2 sites · TentsZanesville, OH

This location in Ohio is about a 10-minute walk to Dillon Dam, Reservoir and Lake! The road that was there was called Yelp Town Hollow Road. The road that this camp was on had to be raised when they put the dam in, they even had to move the one room school house! Black Hand Gorge preserve isn't far from the camp, lots of hiking and bicycle trails. Dillon State Park is 10-15 miles away with trails for horses, walking and biking. About 3,000 acres of State and Federal Land is right in our backyard! Learn more about this land:Set your tent up in a wooded area or near a stream. Great star gazing and forest bathing. The area is in the Yelptown Hollow Valley, the road and one room school house Yelptown School are reminiscent of a bygone era. The old road bed is near camping and old school house has relocated to a site nearby. Come enjoy the laid back ambience of the area! Peaceful, solitude, nearby stream.

Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

2 sites · Lodging50 acres · Thornville, OH

Our farm has been in the family for over 50 years. My Cherokee grandmother purchased the farm with the intention of giving each of her children property. We have been raising bison here since 2008. We chose the name Cherokee Valley to honor my heritage and the gift of this farm by my grandmother and mother. We created this tipi experience to share that gift with you! Enjoy a night in our spacious 22 foot tipi. We provide a comfortable queen platform bed for your convenience. You must provide sleeping bags, linens , blankets etc. The tipi can sleep up to 6 people, 2 on the queen bed we provide, with ample room for additional cots or air mattresses that you provide. We have cots available to rent as an add on. . You may also pitch additional tents or hang hammocks in the trees with room for up to 10 people in all. Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a working bison farm with bison, honeybees, chickens and peafowl. We are a certified Wildlife Habitat and Monarch Way Station. Enjoy our beautiful hiking trails through the rolling hills of our ranch. We have a plethora of bird species, butterflies and wildflowers to delight nature lovers. After hiking the trails you can splash around in the pristine creek that borders our property (we recommend water shoes). Take in a gorgeous sunset over our farm, enjoy a wood fired dinner cooked over the provided fire pit with grill. The sounds of hoot owls will lull you to sleep and when you wake, enjoy the stained glass glow through the beautiful tipi. We are close to several wineries, breweries and recreational areas (kayaking, canoeing, golfing, biking) as well as Legend Valley concert venue. We are a short drive to Buckeye Lake, Dillion Dam, and Hocking Hills. We have a selection of grass fed bison available in our on-site farm store.

Creek side Camping

4 sites · Tents2 acres · Washington Township, OH

Learn more about this land:This is a new site we just listed. Surrounded by woods. Some mowed areas view of rock ledges. Nice creeks on property. Lots of wildlife. Peaceful pick your own spot. Primitive camping set up where you want Easy drive to Hocking Hills Lake Alma Lake Katherine and Lake Hope Leo Petroglyphs nearby kayaking horse back riding Pick your own spot relax. Set up creek side or wherever you want. Private. Build a fire pitch a tent visit lots of local attractions. Nice view of rock ledges. Relax and enjoy nature.

WALKAbOUT Creek Campground

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents132 acres · Chandlersville, OH

-Located in Blue Rock State Forest. Campers are welcome to hike to their hearts content! - Located 10 minutes from Blue Rock's swimming beach at Cutler Lake. - Located 20 minutes from Columbus Zoo's "The Wilds" Safari. - Access to the Blue Rock State Forest equine trails. Over 25 miles of trails. Walking them also allowed! - 3 stocked ponds for fishing - Our own little "Y" Bridge like the notable bridge located in the nearby city of Zanesville. - Communal area for socializing/events. Free to use for campers, provided it is not privately booked for an event.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Hocking Hills State Park

Logan, Ohio

94%

(8)

Wayne National Forest

Tar Hollow State Park

Adelphi, Ohio

100%

(2)

Jackson Lake State Park

Scioto Trail State Park

Waverly, Ohio

100%

(3)

A.W. Marion State Park

Stoutsville, Ohio

Zaleski State Forest

Zaleski, Ohio

Lakeside camping near Athens guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. If you're looking for a lakeside getaway near Athens, Ohio, we've got you covered. With over 370 options in the area, you're sure to find the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Check out top campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews) for tried and true experiences. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like campfires, showers, and trash disposal. And if you're into wind sports, swimming, or biking, you're in luck—these activities are just a few of the many options available. So grab your gear and get ready for a memorable camping adventure by the lake!