The best river, stream, or creek camping in Ohio

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States. If you're looking to camp near a river in Ohio, you're in luck! With over 986 options available, you'll find the perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy the tranquility of the flowing water. Whether you prefer a cozy tent site or a rustic cabin, there's something for everyone. Check out top-rated campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Viking Longhall (257 reviews), and Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (258 reviews) for a truly exceptional experience. And don't forget to take advantage of popular amenities like trash disposal, showers, and potable water. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at whitewater paddling, horseback riding, or swimming. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $5, camping in Ohio has never been more affordable. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping trip along the river in Ohio. Happy camping!

97% (8.7K) 1,561 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

The Turkey Hollow Campground

1. The Turkey Hollow Campground

93%
(666)
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)
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Electrical hookup
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The Pleasant Valley Farm

2. The Pleasant Valley Farm

99%
(860)
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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Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

3. Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

99%
(624)
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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Maumee Bay State Park

4. Maumee Bay State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family
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Salt Fork State Park

5. 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.
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Sandy Springs Campground

6. Sandy Springs Campground

100%
(29)
Stout, OH · 1 site
Nestled between the Ohio River, Shawnee National Forest and river bluffs.  This campground is one of Adams county's best kept secrets.  We just purchased this property ourselves in November of 2018 and fell in love from the moment we placed our feet here.  Enjoy the views and simply watch the river go by.  
Pets
Full hookups
Geneva Hills

7. Geneva Hills

89%
(300)
Lancaster, OH · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Electrical hookup
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One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

8. One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

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

9. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1239)
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.
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Wayne National Forest

10. Wayne National Forest

94%
(8)
National forest in Ohio · 121 sites
Drive, hike, fish, and camp in The Wayne for a wilderness adventure.
Fernwood State Forest

11. Fernwood State Forest

100%
(3)
State forest in Ohio · 22 sites
Discover Fernwood State Forest's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
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Berlin Lake

12. Berlin Lake

100%
(3)
Park in Ohio · 338 sites
Don’t worry hunters, fishers, and gatherers, there’s enough of Berlin Lake to go around! The more lake the merrier, right? This 8.518-acre wildlife area is most known for it’s fishin’ and huntin’. Other reasons for which--shall we say--the areas has become popular for includes dog training, and hunting dog field trials. Walleye, bass, and crappie dominate the fishing in Berlin Lake. And there is also a class D shooting range nearby. So what if you don’t want to hunt? You better believe that there is boating, picnicking, camping, and whatever other adventures you can imagine your two feet taking you to in the area. Fish on!
Sycamore State Park

13. Sycamore State Park

100%
(1)
State park in Ohio · 17 sites
Situated around a tranquil lake and verdant tree outcroppings and grasslands, we have a feeling you'll feel right at home at Sycamore State Park. This 3,000-acre park runs the gamut of recreation, from multiple hiking trails to expansive fishing and hunting activities. Stock up on largemouth bass and bluegills for a communal feast with the entire campground, or bring your Ohio hunting license to catch some squirrel or white-tailed deer. If you're ready to get your boat on, kayaks, canoes, and rowboats are all welcome on the lake's peaceful waters. Come winter, activities like snowmobiling, ice skating, and ice fishing keep this area wildly alive.
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McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

14. McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

100%
(615)
Frazeysburg, OH · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Little Darby Outdoors

15. Little Darby Outdoors

99%
(164)
Galloway, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This is 13 acres in the Little Darby river valley. Lots of space to choose from tents to RVs and campers. Self contained campers only. Flush toilets and shower are available in the agricultural building. Clean and comfortable with country charm. Clean water is available. Free phone and bicycle charging station. Three miles to McDonalds and local businesses. Surrounded by the Columbus Metro Park and 2 miles to the Ohio to Erie bicycle trail. Bring your own kayak and enjoy the beauty of the Little Darby creek.
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Showers
Riverside Adventures

16. Riverside Adventures

97%
(207)
Morrow, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Join us at Riverside Adventures for your next getaway. We are located on a 67 acre farm located on the Little Miami River in the heart of Warren County Ohio, also known as "Ohio's playground". We have 4 camp sites total, all with with river front access. Each site has its own stone patio, fire ring, and picnic table, with other amenities also available. We welcome both small and large groups and can help you plan events here such as family reunions, bachelor(ette) parties, and corporate retreats. With one canoe livery within two miles of us (Little Miami Canoe), you can drop your canoe or kayak in upstream and make your campsite a pit stop before getting picked up downstream by their shuttles. You can also rent a tube from us and go up and down our property or hang out on your tube anchored by the beach. We can also shuttle you upstream on Saturdays and Sundays. You can hike on our property to get scenic views of the Little Miami River Valley or spend time exploring Halls Creek (just down the street), the Fort Ancient Mounds, and others. We know other special local spots we can let you in on, too. We are just a 1/2 mile from the Little Miami Bike Trail and close to Caesar's Creek, Cowan Lake, YMCA's Camp Kearn, and Camp Joy. Plain Folk Music Cafe, Fresh to Morrow, Valley Vineyards, and Little River Cafe, are also short drives if you want to grab a bite to eat and vibe on some cool, local hangouts. We're just a 15-minute drive from King's Island and an hour or less drive from Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus. It's great out here, ya'll--join us! We look forward to helping you with your next outdoor adventure!
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Barrel Run Creek

17. Barrel Run Creek

98%
(254)
Rootstown, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
🌲 Barrel Run Creek Campsites Private wooded sites for tent and vehicle campers—firewood included! Looking for a quiet, secluded spot to unwind? Barrel Run Creek Campsites offer deeply wooded, ultra-private sites perfect for tent camping or vehicle camping (car, truck, or SUV). Each site comes stocked with firewood, a picnic table, and a trash can—so you can settle in and enjoy the outdoors with ease. The property is bordered by Barrel Run Creek and the NSF railroad, giving the area a peaceful, natural vibe with a touch of character. You won’t find crowds or close neighbors here—just the sounds of the woods and the occasional train in the distance. Located just a few miles from Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir and Walborn Reservoir if you want additional hiking or other state park activities. What you’ll love: 🌳 Super private, wooded campsites 🚗 Tent and car/truck camping welcome 🔥 Firewood included with every booking 🧺 Picnic table and trash can at each site 🚶‍♂️ Quick drive to two state park reservoirs 🚂 Peaceful settings, some with creek and rail backdrop Whether you're here to unplug, explore, or just enjoy a quiet night under the stars, Barrel Run Creek Campsites offer a simple, peaceful base for your next outdoor adventure. Thank you!
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Riverside Camping

18. Riverside Camping

95%
(495)
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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Quiet Creek Valley

19. Quiet Creek Valley

98%
(177)
Camden, OH · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our serene oasis in Preble County! Our property features wide-open farmland leading back to a tranquil forested creek, nestled in a valley teeming with wildlife. Enjoy playing in the creek, exploring the woods, and immersing yourself in nature's beauty. This property is in a flood plain and you could be moved to higher ground. Feel free to message us if you have questions. We offer several primitive campsites, allowing you to choose whether to camp solo or with a group. If you're interested in exploring the farm and trails on the upper half of the property, we would love to show you around.
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Potable water
Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

20. Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

100%
(206)
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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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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