The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Columbus Grove, Ohio

Columbus Grove makes river camping simple—over 50 spots, all set along the water. Expect average nightly rates around $30, with some riverside stays dipping as low as $30. You’ll find campfires allowed at most sites, and dogs welcome, so bring your furry sidekick. Showers are standard, making cleanup after a day of hiking or a swim in the river easy. In winter, locals head out for snow-sports. For a spot that’s tested and loved, check out Rusty's Retreat with pond and river (188 reviews), Uncle Chuck's Cabin (71 reviews), or Camp Peace (34 reviews). The campsites here suit anyone who wants an easy escape to the river—without sacrificing a hot shower or a crackling fire.

100% (339) • 26 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbus Grove

Uncle Chuck's Cabin

1. Uncle Chuck's Cabin

100%

(108)

39mi from Columbus Grove · 1 site · Lodging

This property is a great place to enjoy nature. The Metropark has an easement through the canal. Bendview park is nearby. Undeveloped park acreage is near the access road to the east. Fly kites or drones in the grassy field. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are fun winter sports to indulge in. Birds find sanctuary here. Baltimore orioles, Cedar Waxwings,eagles, bluebirds and pileated woodpeckers pass through. Arrowheads have been found everywhere. There's peace and quiet in the surrounding area. Learn more about this land: See nature up close at this secluded getaway a 10 minute walk from South River Road. Enjoy fishing, bird watching, water sports, hiking, campfires and star gazing. Situated on the grassy bank of the Maumee with a natural boat launch. Adjacent to Metropark towpath between Waterville and Grand Rapids. Your fee includes propane and propane lantern, firewood and gas for the generator, plus use of boat, life vests and oars. Property has a fire ring, picnic table, grill and charcoal, sanitary outhouse and ample parking. Cabin has a microwave, Keurig, wood stove, futon, loft with full size bed, 5-gallon thermos of water, and electricity from a generator. No running water or kitchen. We provide twin sheets and pillow for the futon. We also make the full size bed in the loft.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$99

/ night

Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

2. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%

(333)

35mi from Columbus Grove · 13 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. 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

Engedi Acres

3. Engedi Acres

100%

(3)

29mi from Columbus Grove · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

Off-grid Tiny Home and tent clearing on Private 10 acres. Come stay in our little slice of nature, situated on a private 10 acre retired golf course. Enjoy your coffee on the front porch soothed by the bird sounds, watching the squirrels forage for nuts, and the occasional deer stopping for a drink at the seasonal pond or enjoy a s’more around the fire ring. Explore the 10 acres of manicured trails, grasslands, and clearings with your furry best friend, or play on our tree swings, slack lines, and zip line with your littles. One mile down the road, you’ll find Riverbend Recreation area with additional playgrounds, reservoir for fishing/boating, dog park, hiking trails, and cross country skiing available seasonally. The City of Findlay with ample grocery and dining outlets is a short 10 minute drive. The tiny home has a loft equipped with a queen mattress (no linens provided), desk, reading chair, kitchenette, and bistro table. Additional single camp cot available for sleeping on first level. One hammock provided, with additional places to hang hammocks you provide. Yard space is also available for pitching tents. Outhouse adjacent to the cabin. Limited electric available for device charging. Cabin is wired to plug into generator if desired. No running water is available, so water should be brought with you. Additional site available for tent camping. Farm fresh eggs, garden produce, and homemade dog treats available for purchase seasonally as available.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$43

/ night

Mary Jane Thurston State Park

4. Mary Jane Thurston State Park

25 sites · Grand Rapids, Ohio

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

5. Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

100%

(34)

29mi from Columbus Grove · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

This 80 acre farmland has been in the family for 6 generations. Some of the land is still used for farming to this day. The old barn, built in the late 1800's still stands. Now there is also a motocross track on the property. The track is only open occasionally. Enjoy easy trails in the woods, feed fish in the pond, and if you would like to see our goats and chicken we can arrange a time to introduce you!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$30

/ night

Destination Lake Life

6. Destination Lake Life

100%

(3)

29mi from Columbus Grove · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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

LRB Farm Hidden Escape

7. LRB Farm Hidden Escape

100%

(3)

16mi from Columbus Grove · 3 sites · Tents

Little Riverbend farm was established in 1996 by Dave and Traci Bitler. The original property was settled sometime in the mid 1800s with the main house built sometime between 1872-1875. Through several generations the property was passed between the original owners family members, then split up and sold into lots. When the Bitlers purchased the property in 1996, the main house was sold with 3 acres and the 2 stall barn. Then in 2015 they were able to purchase an additional 9 acres of adjoining property giving them the additional pasture and woods running along the Auglaize River.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent in a secluded site nestled between a babbling creek and pasture. Located behind 8 acres of lush horse pasture, a mini working dairy goat farm and few chickens and ducks for fresh breakfast eggs. You'll have access to a fire ring, firewood, and a wrought iron picnic table with chairs and scenic views along the Auglaize river.  

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$100

/ night

Columbus Grove makes river camping simple—over 50 spots, all set along the water. Expect average nightly rates around $30, with some riverside stays dipping as low as $30. You’ll find campfires allowed at most sites, and dogs welcome, so bring your furry sidekick. Showers are standard, making cleanup after a day of hiking or a swim in the river easy. In winter, locals head out for snow-sports. For a spot that’s tested and loved, check out Rusty's Retreat with pond and river (188 reviews), Uncle Chuck's Cabin (71 reviews), or Camp Peace (34 reviews). The campsites here suit anyone who wants an easy escape to the river—without sacrificing a hot shower or a crackling fire.

100% (339) • 26 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Columbus Grove

Uncle Chuck's Cabin

1. Uncle Chuck's Cabin

100%

(108)

39mi from Columbus Grove · 1 site · Lodging

This property is a great place to enjoy nature. The Metropark has an easement through the canal. Bendview park is nearby. Undeveloped park acreage is near the access road to the east. Fly kites or drones in the grassy field. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are fun winter sports to indulge in. Birds find sanctuary here. Baltimore orioles, Cedar Waxwings,eagles, bluebirds and pileated woodpeckers pass through. Arrowheads have been found everywhere. There's peace and quiet in the surrounding area. Learn more about this land: See nature up close at this secluded getaway a 10 minute walk from South River Road. Enjoy fishing, bird watching, water sports, hiking, campfires and star gazing. Situated on the grassy bank of the Maumee with a natural boat launch. Adjacent to Metropark towpath between Waterville and Grand Rapids. Your fee includes propane and propane lantern, firewood and gas for the generator, plus use of boat, life vests and oars. Property has a fire ring, picnic table, grill and charcoal, sanitary outhouse and ample parking. Cabin has a microwave, Keurig, wood stove, futon, loft with full size bed, 5-gallon thermos of water, and electricity from a generator. No running water or kitchen. We provide twin sheets and pillow for the futon. We also make the full size bed in the loft.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$99

/ night

Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

2. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%

(333)

35mi from Columbus Grove · 13 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. 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

Engedi Acres

3. Engedi Acres

100%

(3)

29mi from Columbus Grove · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

Off-grid Tiny Home and tent clearing on Private 10 acres. Come stay in our little slice of nature, situated on a private 10 acre retired golf course. Enjoy your coffee on the front porch soothed by the bird sounds, watching the squirrels forage for nuts, and the occasional deer stopping for a drink at the seasonal pond or enjoy a s’more around the fire ring. Explore the 10 acres of manicured trails, grasslands, and clearings with your furry best friend, or play on our tree swings, slack lines, and zip line with your littles. One mile down the road, you’ll find Riverbend Recreation area with additional playgrounds, reservoir for fishing/boating, dog park, hiking trails, and cross country skiing available seasonally. The City of Findlay with ample grocery and dining outlets is a short 10 minute drive. The tiny home has a loft equipped with a queen mattress (no linens provided), desk, reading chair, kitchenette, and bistro table. Additional single camp cot available for sleeping on first level. One hammock provided, with additional places to hang hammocks you provide. Yard space is also available for pitching tents. Outhouse adjacent to the cabin. Limited electric available for device charging. Cabin is wired to plug into generator if desired. No running water is available, so water should be brought with you. Additional site available for tent camping. Farm fresh eggs, garden produce, and homemade dog treats available for purchase seasonally as available.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$43

/ night

Mary Jane Thurston State Park

4. Mary Jane Thurston State Park

25 sites · Grand Rapids, Ohio

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

5. Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

100%

(34)

29mi from Columbus Grove · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

This 80 acre farmland has been in the family for 6 generations. Some of the land is still used for farming to this day. The old barn, built in the late 1800's still stands. Now there is also a motocross track on the property. The track is only open occasionally. Enjoy easy trails in the woods, feed fish in the pond, and if you would like to see our goats and chicken we can arrange a time to introduce you!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$30

/ night

Destination Lake Life

6. Destination Lake Life

100%

(3)

29mi from Columbus Grove · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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

LRB Farm Hidden Escape

7. LRB Farm Hidden Escape

100%

(3)

16mi from Columbus Grove · 3 sites · Tents

Little Riverbend farm was established in 1996 by Dave and Traci Bitler. The original property was settled sometime in the mid 1800s with the main house built sometime between 1872-1875. Through several generations the property was passed between the original owners family members, then split up and sold into lots. When the Bitlers purchased the property in 1996, the main house was sold with 3 acres and the 2 stall barn. Then in 2015 they were able to purchase an additional 9 acres of adjoining property giving them the additional pasture and woods running along the Auglaize River.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent in a secluded site nestled between a babbling creek and pasture. Located behind 8 acres of lush horse pasture, a mini working dairy goat farm and few chickens and ducks for fresh breakfast eggs. You'll have access to a fire ring, firewood, and a wrought iron picnic table with chairs and scenic views along the Auglaize river.  

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$100

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Paul

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

Chuck's cabin is awesome! It's rustic, cozy, and was made with love. Would 100% recommend. I filmed my visit there, you can find it at @AYearInOhio on YouTube, upload was 12/21/2025. I'll be back, Chuck!

J

Jonski

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Engedi Acres

We loved this beautiful and secluded location. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us

L

Luis

November 2025

1 night at Uncle Chuck's Cabin

I stay with them often and they're super accommodating

D

Dustin

November 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Scott and Amy's Rural Respite

Amazing hosts! A surprise blizzard rolled through, so I informed them I was going to hit a hotel, but didn't expect a refund, because these things happen. Refunded anyway! Super nice of them! Much respect.

T

Tomohisa

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

Cabin was well maintained, clean, and had all the amenities. Would recommend.

S

Sara

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Uncle Chuck's Cabin

The dogs and I had a very peaceful stay at Uncle Chuck's cabin! The highlights were the sunrises over the river, all the birds and birdcalls, the wood stove that kept the cabin very cozy at night and just all of the conveniences they provide! Anya gave me a mug before we drove down to the cabin that was such a nice gift. Chuck gave me instructions on how to use everything when I got there which was very much appreciated. Overall just a very peaceful stay with lots of beautiful scenery, wildlife and conveniences.

J

James

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

We just loved the cabin. It was very peaceful, and very nice! Uncle Chuck was a great host too. Showed us everything we needed to know, and was just an all around nice man. I would definitely recommend this place.

C

Carolyn

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Uncle Chuck's Cabin

We needed a nice warm place to stay in late October & Chuck’s cabin was perfect! Chuck met us on arrival & showed us around the site. There is a generator for electricity to the microwave. The cabin was right by the river. Beautiful view! The wood burning stove was nice & toasty & Chuck has a nice dry supply of firewood behind cabin. The cabin is nicely decorated with fun fun & interesting signs. We left our fridge charger there & Anya was so kind as to mail it back to us! Highly recommend this place!!

C

Casey

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

What a wonderful place to get away. My wife and I needed ao badly time away from our demanding lufes. At Chucks llace we escaped to peace and quite with the most beautiful and romantic backdrop. What an amazing host that provides way above and beyond in cabin amenities. Such a lovely experience.

site #3 between the creek and the river. A short walk across the bridge.

N

Nina

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

We tent camped for four nights at Site 3 which was perfect for our needs. The river was bone dry but fishing in the pond was good! We also enjoyed exploring the trails Jay has cut out. Thanks for a nice stay : )

J

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Jay is a very good host and was very flexible with us. The drive into the sites is interesting since you have to drive through his grass. If it is rainy I would recommend 4/all wheel drive. The area was great! Sites were secluded in a tree dense area and around 25 minuets away is the large town of Findlay. Plenty of hikes and parks around as well! Ultimately it was a great stay, and I would definitely come back!

m

mfre7725

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

It was quiet and the cabin had everything we needed to have a fun weekend. We liked the wood burning stove inside and it had a coffee pot! Great experience. We will be back again

Natalie

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Lovely quiet and serene camping place. Rustic for sure but pleasurable and friendly, helpful owner and helpers.

L

Linzie

September 2025

Group trip

1 night at Uncle Chuck's Cabin

Uncle Chuck's is a secluded oasis. Their level of hospitality cannot be matched at a campsite. They have thought of everything. I can't wait to return!

Mark

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Is a great place to go, and Jay is a very friendly person. Great paths to walk and very peaceful at night.

D

Daniel

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Another great adventure at Rusty’s! This is our second time camping there this year and it certainly won’t be our last.

E

Eden

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Jay was incredibly friendly and took the time to show us the land and introduce us to his lovely animals.

B

Bry

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

We loved our stay at Uncle Chuck’s. The cabin had so many more amenities than expected, the bed was comfortable, and the property is beautiful. We caught lots of fish from the bank and enjoyed taking our kayaks out and building a fire. We went into the little town of Grand Rapids and found the cutest places! We are definitely going to share this property with our friends and can’t wait to make our way back!

J

Jack

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Wonderful property, beautiful sunrise. Very peaceful and quiet. Jay was a remarkably gracious host.

L

Lizz

September 2025

17 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

We loved staying at Rusty's Retreat. There were a lot of camp site options that all felt private. The hosts were very friendly and helpful. We loved learning a bit about the farm and Jay's plans for it.