The best waterside camping in Ohio

·

Camping waterside in Ohio means waking up to mist on the lake and the calls of herons. With over 2,900 waterside campsites scattered across the state, you’ll find spots where you can cast a fishing line before breakfast or take a swim just steps from your tent. The average site runs about $45 a night, but you can snag a pitch for as little as $10 if you’re quick. Top picks include The Lake at the Flying J Farm (581 reviews), Fruitdale Farm (571 reviews), and Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (410 reviews)—all favorites for their easy water access and laid-back vibe. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and plan on plenty of fishing, swimming, and hiking. Most sites offer toilets and welcome pets. If you want mornings on the water and evenings by the fire, Ohio’s waterside camping delivers.

97% (9.7K) 49 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ohio

Fruitdale Farm

1. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1191)
11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
The Pleasant Valley Farm

2. The Pleasant Valley Farm

99%
(850)
17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lucas, OH
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

3. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%
(333)
13 sites · Tents, RVs · Fostoria, OH
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. There are chickens and Brindle the barn kitty. We have the perfect place for dogs as well. We have four dogs that get along great with others and our fenced pond keeps them safe.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Maumee Bay State Park

4. Maumee Bay State Park

100%
(6)
25 sites · Harbor View, Ohio
With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Salt Fork State Park

5. Salt Fork State Park

100%
(5)
23 sites · Kimbolton, Ohio
Hike, golf, or get on the water at Ohio’s largest state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fish Farm Camp

6. Fish Farm Camp

99%
(351)
5 sites · Tents, RVs · Pleasant City, OH
We have a beautiful 20 acre lake. It's 60 ft deep with crystal clear water and is great for swimming and fishing. Kayaking welcome too. We also have a couple other ponds available for fishing as well. We raise fresh water prawn and bluegill in the summertime, so late september we have fresh shrimp available. Lots of waterfowl and deer here to see.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$30
 / night
Destination Lake Life

7. Destination Lake Life

100%
(3)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Chippewa Park, OH
Come explore Indian Lake and what it has to offer! Learn more about this land: Welcome to Chippewa, a waterfront community on Indian Lake in Ohio!  Electric, (well)water is on 4/15-11/01 bring water during off season, sewer, trash included!  Bring your street legal Golfcart, Kayaks, Canoes, Bikes, Jet Skis, and Boat. Chippewa offers: State Park, Boat Ramp/launch, Public Bathrooms, (Waterfront) Moose Lodge, FOE/Eagles, Gas Station/Grocery/Deli/Beer Cave/General Store, Bait &Tackle Shop, and Dollar General- just a Golf Cart ride away! In under a 5 minute car ride you can be at Indian Lake State Beach/(Oldfield Beach), (waterfront) Achesons Resort, (waterfront) Tilton Hilton, (pool & waterfront) Froggy's on the Lake, and even a few other places to grab a bite to eat. We are half an hour from Mad River Mountain, which offers winter activities such as snow tubing & skiing.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
Kickapoo Kamping

8. Kickapoo Kamping

88%
(56)
2 sites · Tents · Zanesville, OH
This location in Ohio is about a 10-minute walk to Dillon Dam, Reservoir and Lake! The road that was there was called Yelp Town Hollow Road. The road that this camp was on had to be raised when they put the dam in, they even had to move the one room school house! Black Hand Gorge preserve isn't far from the camp, lots of hiking and bicycle trails. Dillon State Park is 10-15 miles away with trails for horses, walking and biking. About 3,000 acres of State and Federal Land is right in our backyard! Learn more about this land:Set your tent up in a wooded area or near a stream. Great star gazing and forest bathing. The area is in the Yelptown Hollow Valley, the road and one room school house Yelptown School are reminiscent of a bygone era. The old road bed is near camping and old school house has relocated to a site nearby. Come enjoy the laid back ambience of the area! Peaceful, solitude, nearby stream.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$18
 / night
Wayne National Forest

9. Wayne National Forest

94%
(8)
121 sites · Murray City, Ohio
Drive, hike, fish, and camp in The Wayne for a wilderness adventure.
Berlin Lake

10. Berlin Lake

100%
(3)
338 sites · Lake Milton, Ohio
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!
Deer Creek State Park

11. Deer Creek State Park

95%
(10)
25 sites · Pancoastburg, Ohio
More like a resort than anything, Deer Creek State Park will transport you outdoors while remaining in the lap of luxury. Whether you choose to stay in the lodge, cottages, or campgrounds, swimming pools and a 350-acre golf course are what make this area so deluxe. Work your game at one of the courts or relax on the sands of a 1,700-ft beach, the choice is yours. Waterfowl hunting is a boon in this area, though you will have to win your hunting permit on a lottery basis. Whether you're looking to hook some spring saugeye or rev your boat with unlimited horsepower along the reservoir, we have a sneaking suspicion you won't get bored in this plush locale.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Caesar Creek State Park

12. Caesar Creek State Park

93%
(7)
25 sites · Harveysburg, Ohio
Boasting clear blue waters and steep ravines, put on that toga friend, because you'll feel like Roman royalty at Caesar Creek State Park. Practice old-school hunting techniques at the archery range, or snag your dinner like the ancients did with those fishing tricks up your sleeves. With swimming opportunities galore, a 1,300-ft public beach provides the perfect milieu to bronze that sculpted body. Hike, bike, or horseback ride one of several trails, where you can study the region's limestone and shales leftover from a dried up sea millions of years ago. Modern amenities sneak their way in as well, where you can motorboat the 2,830 acre lake with gusto. Hail Caesar Creek State Park!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mohican State Park

13. Mohican State Park

91%
(33)
25 sites · Loudonville, Ohio
Pitch a tent or reserve a cozy cabin at this family-friendly state park.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Geneva State Park

14. Geneva State Park

90%
(5)
23 sites · Geneva On The Lake, Ohio
Camp feet away from the crashing waves of Lake Erie.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Zaleski State Forest

15. Zaleski State Forest

17 sites · Zaleski, Ohio
Discover Zaleski State Forest's lush trails and historic sites.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Forked Run State Park

16. Forked Run State Park

23 sites · Tuppers Plains, Ohio
Forked Run State park features hickory and maple trees lining lake shores, making this a classic Appalachian beauty. Walk along one of the hiking trails where you can keep an eye out for white-tailed deer and gray foxes tucked away behind the blue phox and bloodroot wildflowers. Catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, and crappie are plentiful for the taking if you plan on bringing your fishing pole, and a ten horsepower limit on boating guarantees to keep the waters calm. If you're interested in catching some deer or turkey for a pre-emptive Thanksgiving feast, be sure to bring your hunting license with you. A small sandy beach and athletic courts provide that perfect balance of recreation and relaxation.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Camping waterside in Ohio means waking up to mist on the lake and the calls of herons. With over 2,900 waterside campsites scattered across the state, you’ll find spots where you can cast a fishing line before breakfast or take a swim just steps from your tent. The average site runs about $45 a night, but you can snag a pitch for as little as $10 if you’re quick. Top picks include The Lake at the Flying J Farm (581 reviews), Fruitdale Farm (571 reviews), and Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (410 reviews)—all favorites for their easy water access and laid-back vibe. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and plan on plenty of fishing, swimming, and hiking. Most sites offer toilets and welcome pets. If you want mornings on the water and evenings by the fire, Ohio’s waterside camping delivers.

97% (9.7K) 49 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ohio

Fruitdale Farm

1. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1191)
11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
The Pleasant Valley Farm

2. The Pleasant Valley Farm

99%
(850)
17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lucas, OH
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

3. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%
(333)
13 sites · Tents, RVs · Fostoria, OH
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. There are chickens and Brindle the barn kitty. We have the perfect place for dogs as well. We have four dogs that get along great with others and our fenced pond keeps them safe.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Maumee Bay State Park

4. Maumee Bay State Park

100%
(6)
25 sites · Harbor View, Ohio
With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Salt Fork State Park

5. Salt Fork State Park

100%
(5)
23 sites · Kimbolton, Ohio
Hike, golf, or get on the water at Ohio’s largest state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fish Farm Camp

6. Fish Farm Camp

99%
(351)
5 sites · Tents, RVs · Pleasant City, OH
We have a beautiful 20 acre lake. It's 60 ft deep with crystal clear water and is great for swimming and fishing. Kayaking welcome too. We also have a couple other ponds available for fishing as well. We raise fresh water prawn and bluegill in the summertime, so late september we have fresh shrimp available. Lots of waterfowl and deer here to see.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$30
 / night
Destination Lake Life

7. Destination Lake Life

100%
(3)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Chippewa Park, OH
Come explore Indian Lake and what it has to offer! Learn more about this land: Welcome to Chippewa, a waterfront community on Indian Lake in Ohio!  Electric, (well)water is on 4/15-11/01 bring water during off season, sewer, trash included!  Bring your street legal Golfcart, Kayaks, Canoes, Bikes, Jet Skis, and Boat. Chippewa offers: State Park, Boat Ramp/launch, Public Bathrooms, (Waterfront) Moose Lodge, FOE/Eagles, Gas Station/Grocery/Deli/Beer Cave/General Store, Bait &Tackle Shop, and Dollar General- just a Golf Cart ride away! In under a 5 minute car ride you can be at Indian Lake State Beach/(Oldfield Beach), (waterfront) Achesons Resort, (waterfront) Tilton Hilton, (pool & waterfront) Froggy's on the Lake, and even a few other places to grab a bite to eat. We are half an hour from Mad River Mountain, which offers winter activities such as snow tubing & skiing.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
Kickapoo Kamping

8. Kickapoo Kamping

88%
(56)
2 sites · Tents · Zanesville, OH
This location in Ohio is about a 10-minute walk to Dillon Dam, Reservoir and Lake! The road that was there was called Yelp Town Hollow Road. The road that this camp was on had to be raised when they put the dam in, they even had to move the one room school house! Black Hand Gorge preserve isn't far from the camp, lots of hiking and bicycle trails. Dillon State Park is 10-15 miles away with trails for horses, walking and biking. About 3,000 acres of State and Federal Land is right in our backyard! Learn more about this land:Set your tent up in a wooded area or near a stream. Great star gazing and forest bathing. The area is in the Yelptown Hollow Valley, the road and one room school house Yelptown School are reminiscent of a bygone era. The old road bed is near camping and old school house has relocated to a site nearby. Come enjoy the laid back ambience of the area! Peaceful, solitude, nearby stream.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$18
 / night
Wayne National Forest

9. Wayne National Forest

94%
(8)
121 sites · Murray City, Ohio
Drive, hike, fish, and camp in The Wayne for a wilderness adventure.
Berlin Lake

10. Berlin Lake

100%
(3)
338 sites · Lake Milton, Ohio
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!
Deer Creek State Park

11. Deer Creek State Park

95%
(10)
25 sites · Pancoastburg, Ohio
More like a resort than anything, Deer Creek State Park will transport you outdoors while remaining in the lap of luxury. Whether you choose to stay in the lodge, cottages, or campgrounds, swimming pools and a 350-acre golf course are what make this area so deluxe. Work your game at one of the courts or relax on the sands of a 1,700-ft beach, the choice is yours. Waterfowl hunting is a boon in this area, though you will have to win your hunting permit on a lottery basis. Whether you're looking to hook some spring saugeye or rev your boat with unlimited horsepower along the reservoir, we have a sneaking suspicion you won't get bored in this plush locale.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Caesar Creek State Park

12. Caesar Creek State Park

93%
(7)
25 sites · Harveysburg, Ohio
Boasting clear blue waters and steep ravines, put on that toga friend, because you'll feel like Roman royalty at Caesar Creek State Park. Practice old-school hunting techniques at the archery range, or snag your dinner like the ancients did with those fishing tricks up your sleeves. With swimming opportunities galore, a 1,300-ft public beach provides the perfect milieu to bronze that sculpted body. Hike, bike, or horseback ride one of several trails, where you can study the region's limestone and shales leftover from a dried up sea millions of years ago. Modern amenities sneak their way in as well, where you can motorboat the 2,830 acre lake with gusto. Hail Caesar Creek State Park!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mohican State Park

13. Mohican State Park

91%
(33)
25 sites · Loudonville, Ohio
Pitch a tent or reserve a cozy cabin at this family-friendly state park.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Geneva State Park

14. Geneva State Park

90%
(5)
23 sites · Geneva On The Lake, Ohio
Camp feet away from the crashing waves of Lake Erie.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Zaleski State Forest

15. Zaleski State Forest

17 sites · Zaleski, Ohio
Discover Zaleski State Forest's lush trails and historic sites.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Forked Run State Park

16. Forked Run State Park

23 sites · Tuppers Plains, Ohio
Forked Run State park features hickory and maple trees lining lake shores, making this a classic Appalachian beauty. Walk along one of the hiking trails where you can keep an eye out for white-tailed deer and gray foxes tucked away behind the blue phox and bloodroot wildflowers. Catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, and crappie are plentiful for the taking if you plan on bringing your fishing pole, and a ten horsepower limit on boating guarantees to keep the waters calm. If you're interested in catching some deer or turkey for a pre-emptive Thanksgiving feast, be sure to bring your hunting license with you. A small sandy beach and athletic courts provide that perfect balance of recreation and relaxation.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field