Cave camping in Ohio

Ohio’s lake beaches, forested hills, and winding rivers set the stage for outdoor adventure.

97% (1173 reviews)

United States
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Ohio

97% (1173 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ohio

Community favorites in Ohio

Public campgrounds in Ohio

100%

(12)

Lake Hope Campground

25 sites In Lake Hope State Park

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(5)

Salt Fork Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Salt Fork State Park

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(8)

Van Buren Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Van Buren State Park

Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(4)

Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area and Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Wayne National Forest

99%

(48)

Old Man’s Cave Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Hocking Hills State Park

100%

(3)

Kelleys Island Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Kelleys Island State Park

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(2)

Burr Oak Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Burr Oak State Park

100%

(2)

Hocking State Forest Horse Camp

23 sites In Hocking State Forest

100%

(2)

Burr Oak Cove Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Wayne National Forest

100%

(1)

Lamping Homestead

6 sites In Wayne National Forest

96%

(13)

Alum Creek Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Alum Creek State Park

Middle Bass Island Campground

20 sites In Middle Bass Island State Park

Stories from the community

Olivia

5 days ago

Weekend Trip to Near/Far Cabin and Campground

This is my second time staying at this cabin with friends and easily my favorite :) It has everything you need from a grill, coffee machine, yoga mat, to an outdoor shower. I love all the personal touches in the cabin too and was pleasantly surprised with a little vase + plant on the table :) you can tell they put a lot into this cabin and love it very much! Will continue visiting in the near future.

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

PARADISE!! Everything you could want is available at Fruitdale Farm. All four cabins were in pristine condition and decorate with such cute art. The kitchen was supplied with all the essentials to make a quick cup of coffee or prep an entire meal. Our daughters (ages 5-11) were able to venture off on their own and explore because all the trails are so clearly marked. The pond offers a refreshing spot to cool down in the sun and a place to gather around a fire at night to a lovely cacophony of wildlife sounds. 10/10!!

Weekend Trip to Feather Ridge - Hocking Hills Camp

The camp sites were beautiful, you could still hear the road from time to time. Otherwise it was rather primitive.

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

We love camping at Fruitdale Farm! We go every year to enjoy the quiet and beauty. We especially love how secluded the campsites are.

Claire

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

The Sugar Shack was the perfect getaway!! We stayed warm by the wood burning stove, sat on the porch to bird watch, and explored the trails around Fruitdale Farm. With all the amenities offered, we didn’t miss being “on” grid at all. We hope to be back someday!

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

We loved our stay. The property was beautiful and peaceful!

Weekend Trip to Geneva Hills

Wonderful time staying at Geneva Hills! Everyone we encountered was very friendly and informative. Beautiful place as well.

3 nights at Private Forest Campsite

The most perfect camping experience. Felt secluded and in the middle of a forest, without being completely disconnected. I had cell service the whole time and felt very safe, especially camping alone. Beth was an amazing host and was just a text away. If you’re feeling like camping on your own to escape real life for a little bit, this is where you want to go.

1 night at Fruitdale Farm

Loved it! peaceful and relaxing! my dog loved it! highly recommend!

Weekend Trip to The land.

Awesome place! Owner is so nice! Right on the river is so peaceful. We will be back here many times! Can’t wait to kayak next time! We also got water from a spring about 1-2 miles down the road from the site.

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

One Tree Hill was great! The one aspect I look for is quiet and Autumn and Carols farm has it. I slept better than I have in a while.

Weekend Trip to Fruitdale Farm

this was our first time HipCamping and we enjoyed our time at Fruitdale Farm! it’s a very peaceful place and the land is well taken care of. the parking, sites, and everything were labeled clearly with cute hand-painted signs which made it easy to find our way for our first time being there. we didn’t use it, but the privy was clean and well-kept. we bought some firewood and appreciated that there’s some for sale. it’s nice to actually camp in the woods, it’s a different experience from a state/national park campground. I was looking for a place to go within an hour or two just to camp for a night when I’m not able to go on a longer trip. this is the HipCamp I found and I’d gladly go back in the future. my partner and I decided on this place because of the parks in the area, Paint Creek and Rocky Fork State Park. our main attraction was to see the wildflowers blooming at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary. it was beautiful and so worth it, highly recommend visiting there if you stay at Fruitdale Farm. thank you to the host for sharing your land with us!

Tabea

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Fruitdale Farm

Aimee is a wonderful steward of her woods, land, gardens, pond, creatures, chicken and bees. She is approachable and very accommodating. Her property is beautiful, well cared for and well kept up. We absolutely loved our stay, our time was too short to explore the surrounding areas or to enjoy the sauna ~ we will be back! Thank you for sharing the beauty of your whimsical glamping houses and nature's beauty!

1 night at Fruitdale Farm

Aimee's sites were well maintained with easy access to firewood and restrooms. As an added bonus Aimee was very helpful with recommendations for local hikes.

Weekend Trip to Private Forest Campsite

Absolutely love this site! This site was super private with hiking around the property, great views, and even a compostable toilet! Beth set up a geocache shortly before our stay and it’s amazing. Bring goodies to trade out on your exploration! Could not hear the sheep dog per previous reviews, but Beth did leave earplugs just in case. Loved the private stream and seclusion of the site from the rest of the world. 10/10, will be coming back!

This cozy a-frame cabin has a full-sized bed with a comfy memory foam mattress. Clean bedding provided.

Sophie

April 2025

2 nights at Fruitdale Farm

Our stay at Fruitdale farm was idyllic! Such a great getaway from life. Aimee had super clear instructions that made check in and departure a breeze. Walking around her land and exploring her recommended local trails felt like a sanctuary. The A-frame offered a wonderful in-between for people like me who aren't ready to fully commit to camping in a tent. I still got the outdoorsy experience of a latrine, no electricity, and no running water, but after a day of hiking, nothing felt better than to lay on the super comfortable bed. PS would highly recommend the Cedar Run Trailhead with the Highlands Nature Sanctuary. It was a relaxing hike, with so much beautiful moss, greenery, and a breath-taking waterfall.

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

We absolutely LOVED the tree house!! It was beautifully crafted and decorated, comfy beds, clean bedding and an adorable place. The middle deck was perfect for the rainy weather. The lofts were easy to get in and stand up in. There's a creek in the back that our pups adored. We will definitely be coming back with our kiddos next time!!

2 nights at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

I really enjoyed the peace and quiet during the two nights I camped here. The host was very helpful in getting me booked since it was a last minute decision to camp there. This is the third time for me at this site and look forward to coming back.

1 night at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

This spring break was my first with my two kids (ages 8 and 12) since they moved away, and the Treehouse in Tullihas was exactly what we needed. It gave us a peaceful, off-grid space to reconnect, unwind, and enjoy each other’s company without distractions. The location is beautiful, with scenic views, rolling hills, and nature all around. We loved hiking, sitting around the campfire at night, and taking in the stillness. It felt like time slowed down in all the best ways. The hosts were incredibly kind and thoughtful, checking in to make sure we had everything we needed while still giving us space to enjoy our stay. If you're looking for a quiet, meaningful, off-grid experience to reconnect with loved ones or recharge on your own, this place is a gem. Our video captures just how special it was: Watch here: https://www.magisto.com/int/video/P00aNFYURGw3UxJhCzE?l=vsm&o=a&c=c Highly recommend — and we’ll definitely be back.

2 nights at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Tullihas in the Trees. Our group of seven (two adults and five kids, ages 10-15) visited in March, and even though it was chilly at night (30 degrees! 🥶), the propane heater kept the chill off. The treehouse was a little snug for all of us to sleep inside, but we made it work. 😁 The kids kept mentioning how thankful they were for a break from internet access and a chance to connect. The location is beautiful, with a creek nearby, plenty of hiking opportunities. There is parking next to the treehouse to easily unload our stuff. One of the highlights was meeting Carol, the owner, who made it possible for us to visit and feed the horse and goats! We made so many great memories and are already looking forward to our next visit! 🌿🌲🏕️

6 top cave campgrounds in Ohio

99%

(1042)

Fruitdale Farm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Bainbridge, OH

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. Farm fresh eggs and fresh produce are available for purchase during the growing season and firewood is available all year round. There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved. 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. A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN ONLY. POINTS OF INTEREST in the area: The HIGHLANDS NATURE SANCTUARY (7 miles away), previously called "7 Caves" is highly recommended for some beautiful hiking. There is a small museum (The Appalachian Forest Museum) at the main trailhead by the parking area... the folks there can direct you to a couple of other great trails nearby if you're interested in further hiking. NOTE: Most of the trails within the sanctuary are not open to dogs, however, there are a couple of dog-friendly trails (inquire at the museum). Museum is closed for the winter (Nov-March). **Recommended trails: Valley of the Ancients (1/2mile, start at museum) and the Barrett's Rim Trail (2.5 mile loop) and the Kamelands Trail, which are both accessible during the pandemic. AMISH BAKERY (Country Crust Bakery) & MARKET (JRs General Store)* on 41 South in Bainbridge (15-20min away): The bakery is a great lunch stop for a fresh, soft Pretzel Bun sandwich (delicious) and to load up on fresh baked goods (the apple fritter is my fave!). The market, which is almost right across from the bakery, is also worth checking out... delicious deli sandwiches and great deals on spices, cheeses, pickles, jams, bulk foods, produce, etc. Watch out for horse & buggy traffic... and bicycles! *The Amish accept cash or check only and are closed on Sunday. In the teeny town of BAINBRIDGE (10-15min away): There are some nice antique/primitive shops around; in particular, Ancient Valley Mercantile has a nice selection of antiques as well as local art, gifts, gourmet coffees, local honey, etc. There's a wonderful little cafe (634 Coffee + Cafe, inside the historic Paxton Theater) that offers coffee drinks, pastries, soups and sandwiches. Stop into Pap's Hilltop Honey and Distillery, where you can purchase and sample a variety of moonshine flavors and cocktails. The Paxton Restaurant has good home cooked meals and a variety of pies and cheesecakes for dessert. Or grab an ice cream at the Dairy Queen before strolling the primitive shops. PAINT CREEK LAKE STATE PARK: (2 miles away) There are dog-friendly hiking trails (the harmony trail and little pond trail are personal favorites), mountain bike trails, a 21-hole disc golf course, boat ramp (if you have kayaks, you can paddle around on the lake... this spot is excellent at sunset), and a camp store that has ice and hand-dipped ice cream. There is also a BEACH, which is good for picnicking and swimming, located at the southern entrance, off of SR 50. GREENFIELD: This town is closer (5 miles) and larger than Bainbridge and good for getting supplies. There are some restaurants, bars and supermarkets (Community Markets, at the further end of town, is recommended over the Save-a-Lot), El Canon (Mexican) would be my restaurant of choice if you decide to eat out. Catch 22 Sports Bar has good burgers and there are plenty of pizza options for dine in or take-out. COVERED BRIDGE: There is a sweet little covered bridge that you can still drive across in the tiny town of South Salem, just a 5 minute drive away. To get there from here, take 41 North and then take a right onto Lower Twin Rd and drive a few miles and you will come to the bridge. SERPENT MOUND (about 30 miles away, Peebles, OH) is an internationally known National Historic Landmark built by the ancient American Indian cultures of Ohio. It is an effigy mound representing a snake with a curled tail. Nearby are three burial mounds—two created by the Adena culture (800 B.C.–A.D. 100), and one by the Fort Ancient culture (A.D. 1000–1650). A must see! CHILLICOTHE (Ohio's first capital): (30 minutes away) The historic downtown boasts charming architecture and is perfect for exploring on foot. Several local shops, restaurants, coffee shops, breweries and bars. A lovely city park with a small lake is host to a year-round population of ducks, geese and swans. There is also a disc golf course and skate park in the city park. There is frequent live music, gourmet cocktails and a wide variety of craft beer at Steiner's Speakeasy (an Americana-style bourbon bar of America). GREAT SEAL STATE PARK (about 35 miles away in Chillicothe): If you are into mountain biking, you will find some of the best trails in the state here (start at the Lick Run parking area). There is also a great disc golf course here along with a picnic shelter and a playground for the kids. FORT HILL EARTHWORKS & NATURE PRESERVE: (30 minutes away) This preserve encompasses 1300 acres of mature woodlands and 11 miles of some of the best hiking trails in the state. Part of the Old Growth Forest Network, there are remnants of the temperate deciduous forests that once covered all of the eastern United States. For archaeology enthusiasts, there is a stone and earthen wall hilltop enclosure, as well as a smaller circular earthwork (both of which can be difficult to discern).

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The land.

13 sites · RVs, Tents61 acres · Danville, OH

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.

90%

(250)

Geneva Hills

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

99%

(513)

McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents230 acres · Frazeysburg, OH

McKee Farm is rich in memories and rich in history. It has been in the family for over 150 years and we were told that it was one of stopping points for the underground railroad. The 240 acre farm boasts a hidden cave, wide open fields, breathtaking forest land, and historic and rustic barns. Nestled at the edge of a wooded creek, Tullihas in the Trees treehouse boasts a beautiful sunset view with rolling hills. Tullihas combines comfort with the thrill of being immersed in nature. Built using recycled electric poles, Tullihas in the Trees has a deck perfect for hammocking, an interior dressed with windows so that guests can feel as if they are living amongst the trees, and two small lofts ideal for a restful night's sleep. Oxley in the Woods is our newest treehouse cabin. Nestled in the woods with a view of the sunset, the lovely A Frame is filled with lovely woodwork, vintage parquet flooring, and private wooded views. The deck is huge! We've had guests set up a tent on the deck beside the treehouse for fun! Swings, and a slide make the Oxley a fun adventure. The double bed in the loft and the two stacked single beds are comfortable and cozy. The McKee Farmhouse was built in the 1800s and is rich in memories. It's a rustic old house, with wood trim, hardwood floors, and plenty of imperfections that make it unique. You can sit on the porch and drink your coffee with a view of the barn and pastures, or cozy up in one of the house's four bedrooms and sleep in. The house is fully air conditioned and heated, has all the amenities of home, but takes you back to a simpler time. Our campsites are all set apart from one another in various locations on the 240 acre farm. Secluded and unique, each campsite has its own charm. We provide guests with a fire ring and a shovel, and some sites have a picnic table. Hiking trails are marked throughout the land. Guests can hike with views of horses, cows, wildlife, corn fields, large boulders, and rustic barns. The dirt roads provide great places to drive ATVs and four-wheelers. An Amish farm borders McKee Farm. Guests should know there is minimal cell service, however, this can offer a great opportunity to unplug. Tullihas in the Trees provides a perfect remote and rustic getaway for anyone. In October and November, access to hiking is limited.

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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.

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Feather Ridge - Hocking Hills Camp

6 sites · Lodging, Tents8 acres · Mc Arthur, OH

Welcome to Feather Ridge! We are located on 8 acres in the Zaleski State Forest in the Allegheny Plateau, nestled in the heart of Ohio's many beloved state parks and national forests including Lake Hope and Hocking Hills. Ideally situated for all your outdoor adventures. Bring your hiking boots and fishing gear! Just outside your tent, Feather Ridge features Wheelabout Creek running the entire width of the property for onsite wade fishing and kayaking, and borders the state forest where you will find 28k acres of rolling hills, gorgeous rock formations and furnaces that the area is so well-known for that act as trailheads and landmarks, abundant wildlife and even a cave or two! All there for great hiking and hunting - directly accessible from the property! Feel free to wander straight up the hill from the parking area and once you’ve passed the yellow marked trees, you’re in the state forest! If you’re looking to enjoy the beauties of the region and not be too far from everything it has to offer, Feather Ridge is your spot! You don’t have to drive miles into the woods to find it - S.R. 278 is the direct access point to our property providing convenient and quick access to parks and any amenities you may need. Our aim is for EVERY camper to enjoy this property as much as we have. Whether it’s casting a line, challenging yourself to hike that extra mile, or throwing a blanket down and taking in nature - we hope your stay here is enjoyable and creates great memories! We currently offer three primitive campsites with two chairs, a side table, and fire ring. Campers are welcome to pitch tents within the radius of their designated area while also maintaining comfortable distance from other campers. All of our sites are well shaded and located off a recreational trail not far from our parking area. VENTURING OUT FROM FEATHER RIDGE- Nearby Parks: Lake Hope State Park - 4.6 miles Wellston Reservoir State Park - 14 miles Lake Alma State Park - 15 miles Hocking Hills State Park - 19 miles Tar Hollow State Park - 34 miles Local lakes: Lake Hope - 4.6 miles Lake Rupert - 11 miles Lake Snowden - 15 miles Lake Alma - 15 miles Fox Lake - 20 miles Local Eateries: The Lodge at Lake Hope - 4.6 miles Mama Renie’s Pizza - 8.1 miles Subway - 8.2 miles Percellis’s Pizza - 8.4 miles McDonald’s - 9 miles Club Vinton - 15 miles Gas Stations/Markets: Valero Gas Station - 8.1 miles Campbell’s Market - 8.7 miles Marathon Gas Station - 15 miles Gulf Gas Station - 15 miles

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Wayne National Forest

Murray City, Ohio

99%

(48)

Hocking Hills State Park

Logan, Ohio

100%

(3)

Kelleys Island State Park

Alum Creek State Park

Galena, Ohio

Middle Bass Island State Park

Put In Bay, Ohio

Other options in Ohio

Back 40 Campground

12 sites1 acre · Rushsylvania, OH

Back 40 Campground stands out as a hidden gem in northern Logan County, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that have delighted visitors for over 40 years. Nestled just a short 9-mile drive north of Bellefontaine off State Route 68, and conveniently located 10 miles south of Kenton and 12 miles east of Indian Lake, this campground spans over 34 acres of rolling hills and features two serene ponds. Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, nature walks, volleyball, basketball, biking, swimming, picnicking, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets and stargazing. The spacious campsites provide ample room for campers to relax and unwind without encroaching on their neighbors. Onsite amenities enhance the camping experience, featuring RV hookup sites, a dump station, a shelter house, a dog swimming area, a playground, volleyball and basketball courts, as well as clean showers and restrooms. For added entertainment, the lodge includes a pool table, foosball table, air hockey table, event tables and chairs, and a cozy fireplace. Additionally, families can enjoy the GaGa Pit and a generous 100' x 50' dog run. Beyond the campground, visitors can explore a wealth of

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Cave camping in Ohio guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping adventures in the United States. If you're looking to explore the beautiful caves of Ohio, we've got you covered with over 270 options specifically tailored to your activity/terrain preference. From the stunning Fruitdale Farm with 352 reviews to the charming McKee Farm with 188 reviews, you'll find a variety of top-rated campsites to choose from. Our average price per night is $25, with options as low as $20. And don't worry about amenities - popular features like cooking equipment, pet-friendly spaces, and proper waste disposal are all part of the package. So grab your gear and get ready for some fall fun, biking, and boating at your favorite cave campsite in Ohio.