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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% (9.4K) 1,575 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

Fruitdale Farm

1. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1278)
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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Altenbrauch Farm

2. Altenbrauch Farm

98%
(541)
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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The Turkey Hollow Campground

3. The Turkey Hollow Campground

92%
(717)
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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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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Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

6. Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

100%
(250)
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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River’s Edge at Lewis Farms

7. River’s Edge at Lewis Farms

100%
(12)
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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Riverside Adventures

8. Riverside Adventures

97%
(244)
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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Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

9. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%
(372)
Fostoria, OH · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
We bought this 125+ year old farm in 2010 with the hope of bringing it back to life. Overgrown and neglected, we have worked hard to make it a nice place for hiking, kayaking, fishing or any number of other activities. Peaceful and remote, the property has a beautiful brook that leads you to the South branch of the Portage river. Deer, turkey, geese, herons, mink and fox are just a few of our natural animal friends. Rusty the steer and his pony friends Lexi and Little Bits can be visited while they graze in the pasture or as they rest at the barn. There are chickens and Brindle the barn kitty. We have the perfect place for dogs as well. We have five dogs of our own that get along great with others and our fenced pond keeps them safe. We allow kayaking on the pond when our dogs are inside. But fishing has been restricted due to unfortunate incidents. Hiking trails, crisscross the properties on both sides of the road. We’ve added 8 acres across the creek to the south of the barn bringing our total to 16 acres for you to wander freely. The trails are being developed and some are dead ends. Be cautious to stay on the trails as there are many nasty plants off of the trails. No open toed shoes should be worn, as poison ivy as present pretty much everywhere. A guided tour is available when available. We also provide Firewood and kayaks and animal interactions for fees. ESV is help us pay for our animal upkeep, including food, Vet bills, and Ferrier fees. We appreciate all donations made to that cause. Our future development will include Rusty‘s Barn. Which will be a music/wedding venue. That would be located in the upstairs of the barn.
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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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Riverside Camping

14. Riverside Camping

96%
(537)
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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Todd’s Fork Adventures

15. Todd’s Fork Adventures

100%
(367)
Morrow, OH · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
This property was the original location of Todd’s Fork Bluegrass Festivals back in the 70’s and is directly on Todd’s Fork with 1/2 mile of River frontage. We reside within the Village of Morrow, walking distance to restaurants and stores. The little Miami Bike Trail is approximately 1/4 mile from our entrance. This property is tucked away and you wouldn’t even know you’re close to town once you’re on site. Valley Vineyards is right down the road to enjoy a bottle of wine and cook your own steak dinner nights. Take a trip to visit Fort Ancient with a day hike. A Native American earthworks complex, the largest hilltop enclosure in the world and soon to be a World Heritage site! Enjoy some canoeing on the Little Miami River a State and National scenic river which is within walking distance. We have kayaks on location for the kids to play in the creek and creeks to hike with numerous fossils deposits. Southwestern Ohio is famous for its Ordovician fossil deposits. Kings Island is approximately 20 minute drive and the Ohio renaissance Festival is near. Caesars creek state park in Cowan lake state park is within a short drive. Smallmouth Bass fishing is awesome on Todd’s Fork and we have plenty of area to Wade fish.
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Towpath Trail Peace Park

16. Towpath Trail Peace Park

93%
(225)
Bolivar, OH · 4 sites
Primitive tent camping on the Greenville Peace Treaty Line, Buckeye Trail, Ohio-Erie Canal Towpath Trail, Scenic Byway, Tuscarawas River Water Trail, Great American Rail Trail, and American Discovery Trail! Located on the historic Ohio-Erie Canal between the village of Bolivar Ballparks and the McDonnell trailheads on the towpath trail ten miles south of Canton, Ohio, and 1.5 miles west of I-77 exit 93 on Scenic Byway Rt 212 in beautiful Tuscarawas County, Ohio. The Peace Park is designed for bikers, hikers, dog walkers, and anyone traveling through to book a campsite, even if no one is available to meet and greet. Campers, once booked, may go to an available campsite and set up camp. Dog-friendly, handicapped-accessible Porta-Jon with hand sanitizer, shared electricity for charging phones, pristine aquifer water, picnic tables, fire pits, fire-side benches, birds, butterflies, lightning bugs, wild turkeys, deer, and other wildlife are often seen. Please note: We're located on a section of the Ohio-Erie Canal Scenic Byway, the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad, and at a 90-degree corner with a slight slope that causes trucks to downshift and brake. If you're a light sleeper, we recommend bringing earplugs! We now offer disposable, individually packaged earplugs in our Porta-Jon.
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Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

17. Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

98%
(75)
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. 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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Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

18. Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

99%
(648)
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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McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

19. McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

100%
(644)
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

20. Little Darby Outdoors

99%
(194)
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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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field