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% (9.7K) • 1,654 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

Fruitdale Farm

1. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(930)
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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The Turkey Hollow Campground

2. The Turkey Hollow Campground

92%
(735)
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) We have WiFi available in most of the camp now. It is Turkey Hollow Guest. Text Matt for the password
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Little Darby Outdoors

3. Little Darby Outdoors

99%
(203)
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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Maumee Bay State Park

4. 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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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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Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

6. Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

99%
(656)
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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Altenbrauch Farm

7. Altenbrauch Farm

98%
(555)
Mc Arthur, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Riverside Adventures

8. Riverside Adventures

97%
(255)
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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Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

9. Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

97%
(84)
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. Only catch and release fishing allowed. Late check-in OK. 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 Erin at five six seven-686-6nine62 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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Wayne National Forest

10. Wayne National Forest

89%
(9)
National forest in Ohio · 121 sites
Drive, hike, fish, and camp in The Wayne for a wilderness adventure.
Berlin Lake

11. Berlin Lake

100%
(4)
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

12. 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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Mary Jane Thurston State Park

13. Mary Jane Thurston State Park

100%
(1)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
Bring your finest pair of yellow rubber boots, because Mary Jane Thurston Park provides some of the best stream fishing in all of Ohio. If you want to angle from the comfort of a boat, rentals are at your disposal in the park office to paddle around the historic Maumee River. Outdoors explorers will enjoy the variety of natural formations, from prairies to dunes and swamps to bogs. Come back when the area transforms into a winter wonderland, where cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice skating make for the perfect excuse to indulge in a steamy cup of hot cocoa.
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Sawdust FarmCamp

14. Sawdust FarmCamp

95%
(216)
Geneva, OH · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Sawdust FarmCamp! Located in Geneva, Ohio. We have four different sites to choose from: one tent site, two glamping tent sites, and one cabin. Now available for all guests propane heated hot water showers located along the drive and a short hike from the sites. Included with your stay; offered by 3 Shanti, a Nature Mindfulness Hike, where we find a deeper connection to nature and yourself. Need some additional relaxation? Book an Energy Session, a stress reduction and relaxation technique, donations welcomed. Contact host to schedule. We also have the option to book all our sites for a 15-person retreat, with special extras only available for that booking, including a pavilion teepee tent. Hot Showers and portable toilets are available, pets are welcome, and campfires are permitted. Naturalist Isabelle H. Klein wrote a collection of letters from her home of Sawdust (named form the sawdust left by the loggers of the early 60’s) for the Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s Explorer Magazine from the winter of 1969 to the summer of 1976. They then were published as the book “Letters From Sawdust” by the Press of Case Western Reserve University for the Museum. It is a lyrical voyage through the seasons at the Sawdust Tract in Northeast Ohio. She details encounters with the wildlife of the area as well as the changing seasons and plant life. Reminiscent of Thoreau's writings about Walden. In 1978 an additional house was moved onto the property from Sidley's gravel pit and joined with the existing Klein farmhouse. We decided to preserve almost 400 acres of the property with the help of the Western Reserve Land Conservatory for the Cleveland Museum Of Natural History, Natural Areas. Forest is home to the red-sided dace, and 10 rare species of birds, including cerulean warblers. The original small family farm and surrounding woods we have retained are being restored and updated. We are proud to call Sawdust home and would love to share it with you.
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Pleasant Valley Farm Camp

15. Pleasant Valley Farm Camp

99%
(463)
Fresno, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Our family farm of 170 acre ! We are two sisters with our husbands and children want to share with you our peaceful farm. Surrounded by Hills, Creeks, Woods, and Beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets! We are settled in the Hills of White Eyes Township. There is lots of history of Native Americans, and the first settlers in this area ( there is a great outdoor play based on a true story called Trumpet in the Land about 30 min from our location) On our farm you may still be able to find arrow heads in the creek bottoms! There is lots of wildlife that may wander through your camp site. The air is full of fresh Country smells. Some tame animals that you will see are Lowline cows ( miniature cows), Chickens, Pigs, Miniature Donkeys, Dogs, Cats. North of us 20 minutes you will find Sugarcreek ( the little Switzerland ) as well as south east of us Coshocton with canoeing and biking trails as well as Roscoe Village.
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Riverside Camping

16. Riverside Camping

96%
(419)
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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Hocking Hills Adventures

17. Hocking Hills Adventures

Logan, OH · 50 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for an amazing camping experience in the Hocking Hills? Riverbend Campground is a quiet, riverfront escape along the Hocking River. Designed for guests who value space, scenery, and simplicity, it offers a relaxed setting that feels away from the crowds—yet close to everything the Hocking Hills has to offer. With direct river access, many campsites sit just steps from the water, making it easy to relax along the bank, fish, or set out for a day on the river. Wake to the sound of flowing water, explore nearby trails or float the river, then unwind in the evening by the campfire. Choose from 30-amp and 50-amp RV sites or large primitive campsites perfect for tents and small groups. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend or an outdoor adventure, Riverbend is the perfect basecamp for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and exploring the Hocking Hills.
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The Pleasant Valley Farm

18. The Pleasant Valley Farm

98%
(625)
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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Arcola Acres

19. Arcola Acres

100%
(39)
North Madison, OH · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hello, this is 22 acres of no-frills undeveloped land with beautiful Arcola Creek that runs into Lake Erie. There's room for an RV or can pitch a tent. Enjoy Arcola Creek Estuary a mile away, bird watching, multiple wineries, covered bridges, Geneva on the Lake or enjoy all day by the creek. There is a perfect spot with a fire pit. (Firewood available for purchase) There are rough trails in the back where the land was logged. There is not a bridge currently but can be accessed easily when the water level is low. Please limit guests to 6 or less people. The land isn’t perfectly level but there are some flat spots for tents. Although neighbors are some distance away, I ask that noise levels are low after 10. ^Please note that there is a camera on the property (not on camp site) for security of my equipment/property when the land is vacant. Camera is rotated out of view after arrival for full privacy of the guests. There is an outhouse with a bucket on the property if needed and flushable toilets a mile north on Dock Rd at Arcola Creek Park (Overlooking Lake Erie). Theres also electric outlets there and under the pavilion. Facts/History: Arcola creek runs into an estuary. It’s one of the last remaining natural estuaries in Ohio. Steelhead trout spawn and migratory birds find shelter here. The creek was used by Native Americans, and the area was instrumental for its role in the Underground Railroad for escaped slaves that boarded ships (at the end of the Dock Rd) on their way to Canada. The town of Ellensburg was built at the junction of Arcola Creek and Lake Erie. It was a thriving community of ship builders, fishermen and commerce. Arcole Iron Works was located south of the mouth of the creek (then called Cunningham Creek after Captain John Cunningham who purchased property there in the early 1800s). Arcole Iron Works was, at one time, the largest industry in Ohio. Bog iron, discovered in Madison Township near North Ridge Road in 1812, and the abundance of timber provided raw materials for iron furnaces. Iron stoves, kettles, hollowware and other heavy castings were made at the foundry. Everyone is welcome here, let me know ahead of time if there's anything to make your stay more comfortable. Please be respectful of the site and neighbors.
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River’s Edge at Lewis Farms

20. River’s Edge at Lewis Farms

97%
(31)
Bolivar, OH · 4 sites
Sites 1 & 2 (The Social Spots): Positioned directly beside each other, these sites are absolutely perfect for families or groups of friends who want to camp together and share the ultimate outdoor experience. Both sites feature heavy, mature shade to keep you cool all day long. Site 3 (The Quiet Transition): Offering a bit more privacy while still draped in deep, refreshing shade, Site 3 is ideal for campers who want a peaceful retreat just a short walk away from the action. Site 4 (The Ultimate Hideaway): As our most secluded site, Site 4 is a private haven for those looking to truly unplug. Unlike the heavy canopy of the other sites, Site 4 opens up to beautiful, sunny areas—perfect for basking in the morning sun or stargazing at night. Adventure Right at Your Tent Flap No matter which site you choose, you are steps away from the best outdoor recreation the region has to offer: Hit the Water: Bring your kayak, canoe, or inner tube! Dip your toes in right from our on-site small launch, or take a quick 0.3-mile stroll down the bank to the larger public launch for an effortless day on the river. Hit the Trail: Prefer solid ground? You are just 0.5 miles from the historic Towpath Trail trailhead. Lace up your hiking boots or hop on your bike to explore miles of scenic, winding pathways. Ready to pitch your tent? Book your slice of riverside paradise today, pack the sunscreen (or the shade canopy!), and get ready to fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the Tuscarawas River. Island is a short walk from ramp across river. Both adults and kids love exploring around it! *Sites are located in Flood Plain. Excessive weather could cause cancellation or relocating *Porta-Potty located approx 0.2 miles from sites. Requires a short walk *River Access on site (at own risk) or Launch 0.2 miles from sites. *Towpath Trail access located 0.5 miles from sites. *Parking on Road by Small path leading to campsites. Hipcamp Parking sign located at entrance *Alternate route into campsites 0.1 miles away may be used during heavy rains. *Campsite access from parking requires 75 feet walk or 600 feet walk from alternate entrance. *All sites contain Picnic Table, Firepit and Grill Grate hung on campsite post (please return to post before leaving) *This is camping, mosquitos can be bad. We try to maintain them but bug spray is recommended *Firewood located on site for $5.00 a bundle, payable at paybox or Venmo (scan tag on box)
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field