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The best camping in Ohio with wildlife watching

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Looking for a camping experience that combines wildlife watching with the great outdoors? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 1500 options in Ohio alone, you'll have plenty of choices to satisfy your craving for wildlife adventures. Whether you prefer camping at Heritage Farms (976 reviews), Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), or The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), you can count on top-notch accommodations and unforgettable experiences. With prices starting as low as $5 per night and an average price of $35 per night, you'll find a camping spot that fits your budget. Plus, popular amenities like pets, toilets, and trash facilities ensure a comfortable stay. And if you're up for some adrenaline-pumping activities, you can also enjoy off-roading (OHV), hiking, and snow sports. So pack your gear and get ready to make memories in the wilderness of Ohio with Hipcamp.

97% (12.5K) 2,588 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

Camping at Heritage Farms

1. Camping at Heritage Farms

97%
(2731)
Peninsula, OH · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
Heritage Farms, located in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, is a 5th-generation, family-owned Christmas tree farm founded in 1848. Camping began ten years ago. We offer six shelters and nine primitive tent sites. We are incredibly close to the various trails located across the Cuyahoga Valley. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK! 1.WE DO NOT ALLOW FIREWOOD to be brought onto Heritage Farms property due to the potential risk to our crops and according to State and Federal Regulations. Firewood bundles may be purchased when making your reservations or upon arrival at the farm. 2. No vehicles may be driven into the camping area at any time. 3. All vehicles must remain in the designated parking lots 4. Campers are responsible for carrying their gear to their campsites—we provide wheeled carts for your use. 5. Ohio Primitive Camping licensing does not allow wheeled camping on Heritage Farms property. 6. Due to Summit County Health regulations, we cannot provide water. Please bring your own drinking and washing water. Or you may purchase 1-gallon jugs of water when you reserve your site or upon arrival. Our restrooms are porta Johns. 7. Tent sites (labeled A-J) have space for up to 3 tents. Shelter sites (numbered 1-6) have room for up to 2 additional tents. All sites are limited to a maximum of 6 campers 8. Heritage Farms is a working Farm. Please be aware that tractors and other machinery are in use during daylight hours 9. Check-in time is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you’re arriving after 7:00 p.m., please let us know. Checkout time is 10:00 a.m. Please use the dumpster for all trash. Gray water stations are available for the disposal of used water. 10. Only campers registered to HipCamp are permitted to overnight on Heritage Farms property. We do not allow parties and underage or excessive use of alcohol at any time. 11. DOG POLICY: We welcome dogs who have received prior permission from the farm owners. A dog registration form including proof of rabies vaccination must be filled out upon arrival. Unvaccinated dogs are not permitted on the property. All dogs MUST always be on a leash and in the physical control of their owner(s). No pets may be left unattended at any time.
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The Turkey Hollow Campground

2. The Turkey Hollow Campground

93%
(690)
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)
Pets
Electrical hookup
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The Lake at the Flying J Farm

3. The Lake at the Flying J Farm

98%
(1427)
Johnstown, OH · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
The Flying J Farm is 250 beautiful rolling acres including 100 acres of forest, 6-acre lake small pond, three streams, and numerous fields for crops and pastures with cows. The owner bought the farm in 1998 for his retirement from a faculty position at the Ohio State university. Two buildings, the farm house and old barn, are original dating back to 1831. These have been restored for current use. The mission of the farm is to restore health both in people though the products produced and in the land by farming in a sustainable way with no conventional chemicals, antibiotics, and use of GMO. We host many visitors including tours and events. An on farm market is available to visitors for purchase of our products including grass-fed beef, maple syrup, and fruits and vegetables. The cabin was built using wood from the farm. It has off-grid electricity meaning it is powered by batteries charged by solar panels. There is not sufficient power for devices with a heating element such as coffee makers and hair dryers. You may charge cell phones. For any other use, please check with the owner. Wild Life. There is an abundance of wildlife to be observed on the farm. Deer can be seen at dusk, raccoons can be seen going through your camp food at night (if you put it in your car), turkeys, hawks, vultures, rabbits, coyotes (heard screaming at night), frogs (especially heard at night), fish (jumping), and many song birds (my favorite, the bobolink, May and June only, nesting in the pastures). Trash. This sustainable farm has no garbage hauling, please carry away your trash.
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Lake Hope State Park

4. Lake Hope State Park

100%
(13)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
Leftovers of an abandoned mine give Lake Hope State Park its rustic charm, where a nearly 3,000-acre lake provides ample opportunity for outdoor fun in the sun. Seven hiking paths and eight biking trails mean you'll have multiple chances to discover the steep gorges that characterize this densely forested area. Hunt in the adjacent Zaleski State Forest or catch some crappie or bluegill in the expansive lake for some fresher than fresh dinner. If you're not in the mood for cooking your catch or devouring another can of baked beans, consider moseying over to Lake Hope Lodge, which will treat your palate to hickory smoked barbecue and smoked meats and sides by the pound. Cushy beaches, interpretive center exhibits, and a variety of ball courts will burn those calories off in no time.
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Maumee Bay State Park

5. 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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Electrical hookup
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Marra Lake in Ellsworth, Ohio

6. Marra Lake in Ellsworth, Ohio

100%
(1)
Ellsworth, OH · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private 19 acres includes wooded area and 3 1/2 acre lake. Lake front view nestled close to the woods. Enjoy sitting by a camp fire at night. During summer days enjoy swimming and kayaks (bring your own). Fishing with your own equipment. Cooking on the camp fire! It’s a place to come to be with nature and just relax in the quiet. Surrounded by beautiful colors in the fall on your nature hikes. Or a winter wonderland if you choose to camp in your RV. Our private bathroom with shower is open from May-Oct located behind the main house between the garages. Outside of those months there is a porta potty on site. Firewood is for sale on site. There is no water or electric at sites. You are welcome to use our pavilion to charge phones or use microwave. Each site includes a fire pit, table, garbage can. Access to power including a charging station for phones etc. are located inside the pavilion. Other garages and equipment are restricted from use. No water non potable or potable water is provided. We have bottles of water for $1.00 Base price for each site allows for two (2) guests. Additional charges apply for more persons. Limit of one (1) tent per site and maximum of four (4) persons or one (1) family per site. No smoking near pavilion or main house and no recreational drugs allowed. Pets will require prior permission from property owner. Parent must accompany children at all times while swimming or at playground area. Please clean up after yourselves at all times and respect the property and owners.
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The Pleasant Valley Farm

7. The Pleasant Valley Farm

99%
(882)
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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Riverside Camping

8. Riverside Camping

95%
(521)
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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Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

9. Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

99%
(641)
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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Salt Fork State Park

10. 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Van Buren State Park

11. Van Buren State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
Frolfing, anyone? Van Buren State Park is the ideal spot to flick that wrist and beat your friends at yet another disc golfing tournament. Nestled among crops of soy, wheat, and corn, consider this a little farmland oasis for you and all your best buds. Channel that inner Legolas and go bow-hunting, or catch a wide variety of fish from carp to bluegill at Van Buren Lake. Motor boat it up or row around old-school on the waters of the lake, the choice is yours. With multiple horseback and hiking trails available as well, we're confident you'll love the generous serving of activities available for the campers here. Did we mention there's a butterfly gazebo and volleyball courts as well? Save yourself the trouble of contemplating, and just book it now. There's no way your frolfing team will resent you for it.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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West Branch State Park

12. West Branch State Park

100%
(11)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
From jet skis to snowmobiles, this thrill-seeker’s paradise has unlimited horsepower.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wayne National Forest

13. Wayne National Forest

94%
(8)
National forest in Ohio · 121 sites
Drive, hike, fish, and camp in The Wayne for a wilderness adventure.
Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

14. Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

99%
(230)
Cuyahoga Falls, OH · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are a small goat farm located within minutes of Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Sarah’s Vineyard. There are many activities nearby such as hiking trails, bike paths, metro parks, fishing, kayaking, river floating, swimming and even train rides. Our farm allows for hands-on contact with our animals, along with many other activities for younger kids to enjoy during their stay. We welcome tent campers, tree hammocks, small RVs and small/mid-size campers. We also welcome friendly, leashed pups. ***Please note that we are a working farm, and that we may have scheduled farm visits during the hours of 10-4 daily.
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Fruitdale Farm

15. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1256)
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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Barrel Run Creek

16. Barrel Run Creek

98%
(272)
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 Adventures

17. Riverside Adventures

97%
(228)
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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One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

18. One Earth Collaborative Sanctuary

96%
(224)
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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Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

19. Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Creekside Retreat

100%
(267)
Thornville, OH · 2 sites
Welcome to Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch Tipi Stay Our farm has been in our family for more than 50 years. It was lovingly purchased by my Cherokee grandmother with the intention of gifting each of her children a piece of land. In 2008, we began raising bison here, and we chose the name Cherokee Valley to honor my heritage and the extraordinary gift passed down from my grandmother and mother. We created this tipi experience to share that gift with you. Your Tipi Stay Spend the night in our spacious 22-foot tipi, thoughtfully placed to immerse you in the sights and sounds of the ranch. Inside, you’ll find a comfortable queen platform bed provided for your convenience. Guests should bring their own sleeping bags, linens, pillows, and blankets. The tipi comfortably sleeps up to 6 guests—two on the provided queen bed, with ample room for additional cots or air mattresses you bring. Cots are available to rent as an add-on. You’re also welcome to pitch additional tents or hang hammocks in the surrounding trees, allowing space for up to 10 guests total. The Ranch Experience Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a working ranch, home to plains bison, honeybees, chickens, and peafowl. We are proud to be a Certified Wildlife Habitat, Certified Firefly Habitat and Monarch Waystation. Explore our scenic hiking trails that wind through rolling hills, wildflowers, and native grasses. Nature lovers will delight in the abundance of birds, butterflies, and wildlife throughout the property. After your hike, cool off in the clear, pristine creek bordering the ranch (water shoes recommended). As evening settles in, enjoy a wood-fired meal prepared over your private fire pit/grill, then watch the sunset paint the valley in golden light. Fall asleep to the call of hoot owls, and wake to the soft morning glow filtering through the tipi’s beautifully painted translucent cover. Location & Nearby Adventures We’re conveniently located near several wineries, breweries, and outdoor recreation areas, including kayaking, canoeing, golfingnd biking. We’re also close to Legend Valley concert venue, and just a short drive from Buckeye Lake, Dillon Dam, and Hocking Hills. Don’t forget to visit our on-site farm store, where we offer a selection of grass-fed bison raised on the ranch!
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Todd’s Fork Adventures

20. Todd’s Fork Adventures

100%
(358)
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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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