Discover the best campgrounds near Athens, Ohio with wildlife watching

United States
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Ohio
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Athens

97% (1861 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Athens

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(405)

Altenbrauch Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents62 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

Located only 8 miles from Hocking Hills State Park, Altenbrauch Farm features 62 acres of open fields, small streams and wooded hills intersected by a lonely country road. Aside from our house, there are no neighbors in sight. Easily pitch your tent in an open field or trek through the hills and hollows to find your perfect campsite.As part of Ohio's famous Hocking Hills Region, Vinton County is home to the second largest state forest, in addition to multiple state parks and wildlife areas. You’ll encounter abandoned historical sites and relics dating back to the early 1800s, hidden away among the wooded hills of Ohio’s least populated county. If you're a lover of outdoor recreation, this is the place to be. Within about a half-hour drive, there are many opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, hunting and fishing, and birding. Nearby parks and forests include Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking Hills State Forest, Lake Hope State Park, Zaleski State Forest, the Moonville Rail Trail, Lake Alma State Park, Tar Hollow State Forest, and more!Set up camp wherever you like! There are 12 acres of open field space, surrounded by 50 acres of wooded hills and hollows with hiking trails and level spots to pitch tents. Vehicles can be driven to the field sites; we are still working on a road to access the hill sites by vehicle. The fields have about a dozen "permanent" sites with stone or metal fire rings and log seating. Portable fire rings are also available that can be moved anywhere. Dead wood for campfires is free to gather, or split firewood is available to purchase for $5/bundle. A toilet and solar shower are located at the center of the property. An outdoor water spigot is also available. Guests are expected to follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. Any trash packed onto the property must be bagged and taken with you.

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.

93%

(88)

RusticAppalachian Cabin on BeefFarm

1 site · Lodging136 acres · Stockport, OH

We have been raising our family & Grassfed Angus Beef here since 1984.

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.

Hocking Vacations Campsites

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Logan, OH

Nestled in the heart of the Hocking Hills Region, Hocking Vacations Campsites offer a rustic retreat for those seeking to reconnect with the great outdoors. Guests can enjoy the central location and the close proximity to Hocking Hills State Park, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Whispering Pines, Conkles Hollow, Rock House, and many more! Our campsites offer many amenities to make your back-to-basics experience a comfortable and convenient one. Each campsite is clearly marked and has a 10 x10 wooden PLATFORM with rings to tie down your tent, fire ring, picnic table, and EMERGENCY USE fire blanket. HIKE TO SITE - you will be hiking between 120 and 240 yards to the campsites from the parking area, uphill, and on uneven terrain of mulched paths. There is a shared pull cart available. Recommend you arrive before dark. The parking area is well lit and there is a solar light above the site name sign. PARKING-There is easy access from the road to assigned parking spots, where you will find a well-maintained area with potable water, solar lighting, port-a-potty, fire extinguisher, shared metal cart and informational sign. You will hike to your reserved and private campsite. If needed and available, there is a metal cart to aid you in transporting your supplies to your site. FIREWOOD – Firewood bundles are for sale at a nearby property. Hocking Vacations Campsites are large, cleared areas located amidst towering trees and surrounded by lush foliage. You will be walking to your site on paths cleared of trees and dense foliage. Wear appropriate shoes as the paths are grassy, uneven in places and may have small roots. Visitors are invited to embrace the simplicity and serenity of wilderness camping and create memories that will last a lifetime.

12 top campgrounds near Athens with wildlife watching

99%

(279)

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.

Altenbrauch Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents62 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

Located only 8 miles from Hocking Hills State Park, Altenbrauch Farm features 62 acres of open fields, small streams and wooded hills intersected by a lonely country road. Aside from our house, there are no neighbors in sight. Easily pitch your tent in an open field or trek through the hills and hollows to find your perfect campsite.As part of Ohio's famous Hocking Hills Region, Vinton County is home to the second largest state forest, in addition to multiple state parks and wildlife areas. You’ll encounter abandoned historical sites and relics dating back to the early 1800s, hidden away among the wooded hills of Ohio’s least populated county. If you're a lover of outdoor recreation, this is the place to be. Within about a half-hour drive, there are many opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, hunting and fishing, and birding. Nearby parks and forests include Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking Hills State Forest, Lake Hope State Park, Zaleski State Forest, the Moonville Rail Trail, Lake Alma State Park, Tar Hollow State Forest, and more!Set up camp wherever you like! There are 12 acres of open field space, surrounded by 50 acres of wooded hills and hollows with hiking trails and level spots to pitch tents. Vehicles can be driven to the field sites; we are still working on a road to access the hill sites by vehicle. The fields have about a dozen "permanent" sites with stone or metal fire rings and log seating. Portable fire rings are also available that can be moved anywhere. Dead wood for campfires is free to gather, or split firewood is available to purchase for $5/bundle. A toilet and solar shower are located at the center of the property. An outdoor water spigot is also available. Guests are expected to follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. Any trash packed onto the property must be bagged and taken with you.

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%

(117)

Private Forest 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 oneself in nature. From our parking area, our private campsite is a short walk (3-4 minutes) by way of a well maintained footpath which leads you alongside a farm pasture, to a wooded trail that empties on to a level forest understory ideal for your hammock or tent. Our campsite is equipped with the necessities: a firepit with a removable grill, a table, your own private outhouse, and unlimited sights and sounds of nature. Trails leading from the campsite will usher you short distances to one of our best stargazing hilltops, to the shallow creek which runs alongside the campsite, through shaded forests and ridgetop views. Our pond, a short 7 minute hike, offers fishing, swimming or simply relaxing on the dock. For longer hikes, all trails connect to our larger network of maintained trails winding over hill and dale, through shaded forests and open (mowed) pasture trails offering the hiker farm-life views across our 80 acres. To make your packing lighter and your stay more comfortable, we offer the following "extra items" at an additional cost. Please order your "extra items" at the time of booking. *Additional fees may apply for items not ordered in advance of stay.* - Firewood bundles (unlimited) - Garbage disposal (limit 2 bags per booking) - Charged battery pack with plug and USB receptables - *Stringed twinkle lights - 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.

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.

Hocking Vacations Campsites

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Logan, OH

Nestled in the heart of the Hocking Hills Region, Hocking Vacations Campsites offer a rustic retreat for those seeking to reconnect with the great outdoors. Guests can enjoy the central location and the close proximity to Hocking Hills State Park, Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Whispering Pines, Conkles Hollow, Rock House, and many more! Our campsites offer many amenities to make your back-to-basics experience a comfortable and convenient one. Each campsite is clearly marked and has a 10 x10 wooden PLATFORM with rings to tie down your tent, fire ring, picnic table, and EMERGENCY USE fire blanket. HIKE TO SITE - you will be hiking between 120 and 240 yards to the campsites from the parking area, uphill, and on uneven terrain of mulched paths. There is a shared pull cart available. Recommend you arrive before dark. The parking area is well lit and there is a solar light above the site name sign. PARKING-There is easy access from the road to assigned parking spots, where you will find a well-maintained area with potable water, solar lighting, port-a-potty, fire extinguisher, shared metal cart and informational sign. You will hike to your reserved and private campsite. If needed and available, there is a metal cart to aid you in transporting your supplies to your site. FIREWOOD – Firewood bundles are for sale at a nearby property. Hocking Vacations Campsites are large, cleared areas located amidst towering trees and surrounded by lush foliage. You will be walking to your site on paths cleared of trees and dense foliage. Wear appropriate shoes as the paths are grassy, uneven in places and may have small roots. Visitors are invited to embrace the simplicity and serenity of wilderness camping and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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.

94%

(36)

Geode Nature Domes

4 sites · Lodging, Tents11 acres · Chillicothe, OH

Come for the thrill, stay for the chill. Geode Nature Dome is a one-of-a-kind outdoor event space nestled at the foothills of the Appalachians in Chillicothe, Ohio. Designed to create epic outdoor experiences immersed in nature’s elements, our space is perfect for groups, teams, wellness getaways, and adventure-seekers of all kinds. Our unique geodesic domes and glamping sites offer you and your community a rare experience in the heart of nature surrounded by its rich elements. Thrill + Chill Escape the daily grind and tap into your divine adventurous spirit. We offer a series of exhilarating outdoor experiences that allow you to connect with the earth. Be inspired by the open fresh air, trees, mountains and seek the adventure that awaits you. However you wish to connect to nature, we provide you a range of experiences that match your energy level. Embrace your bold spirit and take on adventures like ziplining, mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking. Or take a deep breath and find something a little more tranquil like yoga, massage, meditation, foraging, or a nature walk. We want to share the magical space that Geode Nature Dome is while showing gratitude for our natural habitat. It is our mission to leave our space better than we found it. Adventure therapy is calling. Geode Nature Dome: Thrilling Events Brought to Life 36' Dome Ideal for 10 people 16' Dome Ideal for 2 people The Specs: Private, half-mile hiking trail on property Picnic area with fire pit Sunlit with ventilation in summer Majestic views Learn more about this land:

RusticAppalachian Cabin on BeefFarm

1 site · Lodging136 acres · Stockport, OH

We have been raising our family & Grassfed Angus Beef here since 1984.

100%

(114)

Triple D Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

My wife and I purchased this property as a family get a way. Great place to relax and unwind.

98%

(97)

Pop's Place Camping

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Corning, OH

A small primitive camping area in SE Ohio. We have 2 acres with four sites available. A short distance to Burr Oak State Park, Tecumseh Trails Off-road, Merckles offroad, Wayne National Forest, Bailey's Trail System and The Triple Nickel. A side x side, ATV or hunters paradise. We are also motorcycle friendly.

100%

(2)

Salt Creek Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents60 acres · Laurelville, OH

Welcome to The Thurston Family’s SaltCreek Retreats! We provide complete “Glamping” sites equipped with well stocked off grid Yurt , PawPaw Grove, which are Mini Convertible A Frame Cabins, Hawks Nest Cabin, a she shed cabin and 2 Basic rustic campsites to pitch your tent or camp in your van or car. We also offer the Wildcat Cabin w/3 Tom cats living there. Located outside of Laurelville in the Hocking Hills in Southeastern Ohio. Stay with us on private secluded campsites to escape the crowds!!! We even provide cut and stack firewood for your convenience! We ask for donations ($10 a large arm load) to help pay for the Old Man’s labor and fuel. We have a Bath House with Joolca's Nomad Hot Tap Kit. Nothing like taking an outdoor shower inside the newly constructed Bath House. We added a Solar shower backup also. We have walking trails, a small catch and release pond, Salt Creek is a creek running along the property with access near the Bridge. We are located within 20 minutes from 5 State Parks in the Hocking Hills. 2-1/2 miles from the Village of Laurelville which boasts 6 restaurants, a full service grocery store, butcher shop, gas station, bank, ATM and Old fashioned Hardware. It is a Dry Township so buy your liquor before you get here!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Hocking Hills State Park

Logan, Ohio

94%

(8)

Wayne National Forest

Jackson Lake State Park

A.W. Marion State Park

Stoutsville, Ohio

Forked Run State Park

Tuppers Plains, Ohio

Muskingum River State Park

North Zanesville, Ohio

Camping near Athens with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Athens, Ohio and are particularly interested in wildlife watching, we've got you covered. With over 1,300 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your preferences. Looking for reviews? Check out popular campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and The Viking Longhall (257 reviews). And don't worry about amenities and activities - potable water, pets, campfires, boating, historic sites, and climbing are all popular options. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!