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The best camping in Ohio with campfires

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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% (15.8K) 4,817 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

Camping at Heritage Farms

1. Camping at Heritage Farms

97%
(2731)
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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Wifi
The Turkey Hollow Campground

2. The Turkey Hollow Campground

93%
(690)
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
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Inland Acres

3. Inland Acres

96%
(13)
Port Clinton, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Inland Acres – Quiet Country Camping Near Lake Erie Escape the crowds and settle into your own slice of peaceful countryside at Inland Acres. Tucked away on 1.7 acres just minutes from Lake Erie’s Western Basin, our small, private campground is perfect for anglers, families, and travelers looking to relax after a long day on the water or exploring the islands. We offer spacious campsites with easy access for boats and trailers, plus 50/30/20 amp electric hookups to keep you powered up. With only a couple sites available, you’ll enjoy a quiet, uncrowded stay. no packed campgrounds here. Located close to public boat launches, beaches, island ferries, and attractions like Cedar Point, Inland Acres is the perfect home base for fishing trips, family vacations, or a peaceful weekend getaway. Sit back by the fire, enjoy the open space, and experience the slower pace of country life just minutes from everything.
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Electrical hookup
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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.
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Maumee Bay State Park

5. 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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Leafy Oaks Campground Inc

6. Leafy Oaks Campground Inc

Green Springs, 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.
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Full hookups
Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

7. Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

100%
(228)
OH · 4 sites
With over 230 acres, a lake, trails, the Grand River, plenty of wildlife, and FREE firewood. Bass and Buck Adventures is the perfect place to get away. Once known as Parkman Gorge the valley was a hub for water powered industry in the early 1800's. The river and valley is home to a wide array of wildlife. Deer, turkey, eagles, hawks, owls, mink, river otters to name a few. The area also attracts many song birds including a wide variety of warblers. There is also an abundance of wild flowers. The valley is rich in Native American history. Many artifacts have been found on the property. My great grandfather talked about the last Native American to live in Parkman. He had a cabin on one of the bluffs along the river. In the 1820's there was a water powered sawmill, flaxseed mill, and forge on the river. The boy scouts used the valley for a camp in the 1920,s. My grandpa purchased the property in the 50's from Ohio Edison. Ohio Edison's plan to dam up the river for hydro power never materialized. The valley has been a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. Camping, hiking, fishing, hunting. Many of the items used for the camp sites have been reclaimed. The fire rings are old tractor rims and scrap steel. The tent platform is from reclaimed deck lumber. The firewood is excess cutoffs purchased from a local sawmill. For more information log onto our website. bassandbuckadventures.com
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The Lake at the Flying J Farm

8. The Lake at the Flying J Farm

98%
(1427)
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 Pleasant Valley Farm

9. The Pleasant Valley Farm

99%
(882)
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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Electrical hookup
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Riverside Camping

14. Riverside Camping

95%
(521)
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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Picnic table
Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

15. Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

99%
(641)
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!
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Potable water
Nature's Way

16. Nature's Way

98%
(222)
Rockbridge, OH · 9 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 rxrwinery.com 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
Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

17. Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

99%
(230)
Cuyahoga Falls, OH · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are a small goat farm located within minutes of Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Sarah’s Vineyard. There are many activities nearby such as hiking trails, bike paths, metro parks, fishing, kayaking, river floating, swimming and even train rides. Our farm allows for hands-on contact with our animals, along with many other activities for younger kids to enjoy during their stay. We welcome tent campers, tree hammocks, small RVs and small/mid-size campers. We also welcome friendly, leashed pups. ***Please note that we are a working farm, and that we may have scheduled farm visits during the hours of 10-4 daily.
Pets
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Fruitdale Farm

18. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1256)
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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Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

19. Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

98%
(66)
Swanton, OH · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our working bison ranch, where a unique experience awaits you. We are 10 minutes from Interstate 80/90. Explore our ranch through walking the paths that meander along the creek and around each bison pasture. As you stroll, discover the serenity of a large pond teeming with fish, dragonflies, butterflies, and amphibians. Visit our onsite store, where you can purchase our high-quality bison meat and unique bison artifacts. Additionally, from May to October, we offer tractor-drawn wagon tours into the pastures, providing an up-close encounter with these majestic animals. Please call Carmen at +14193201283 to schedule your tour. Nestled within a few miles of charming small towns boasting independent restaurants and stores, our location offers a perfect blend of rural tranquility and local amenities. For those seeking more extensive shopping options, we are conveniently situated within 15 miles of larger Toledo suburbs, featuring a variety of big-box stores. Our bison enjoy over 55 acres of pasture, benefitting from our commitment to rotational grazing for both pasture and bison health. At our ranch, we prioritize working harmoniously with the land, fostering the return of native flora and fauna to our property. Situated a few miles north of Swanton, our land, once used for standard crops, has undergone a transformation. After five years, we proudly boast an array of accomplishments, including the identification of over 25 different bird species in a single morning, an increase in local native pollinator populations (including the monarch butterfly), and a reduction in soil erosion. Join us on this journey as we invite you to experience the beauty of nature, the magnificence of bison, and the positive impact of sustainable practices on our land.
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Picnic table
The land.

20. The land.

98%
(110)
Glenmont, OH · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
We have a total of 61 acres to explore, the camping area available is roughly 5 acres. - 8 lots, 6 are riverfront. - Firewood for sale ($10 per load cash only) - Canoe and kayak launch - Stone riverside beach for kids to play - Port-a-pots that are cleaned weekly and solar shower available. - 3 riverfront sites must park 20 to 30 yards from the site - 3 riverfront sites can park 1-2 cars or bring a small camper - Only camper vans and small popup campers please message if you have any questions. 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 is untouched wilderness besides some logging trails and old campsites from others.
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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.

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