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Forest camping near Columbus

Discover and reserve the best campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and more.

98% (1866 reviews)
98% (1866 reviews)

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Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds near Columbus

99%
(444)

Grins & Pickin's CampFarm

47 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres ¡ Marengo, OH
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 with others. Our family oriented outdoor recreation facility is open on weekends only and 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 fireflys. 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!
from 
$5
 / night
98%
(23)

Little Darby Outdoors

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents13 acres ¡ Galloway, OH
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 firewood! 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.
from 
$30
 / night
97%
(43)

Pleasant Acres Ohio

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents7 acres ¡ Plain City, OH
This property was first established in 1976, and the original owner named the property “Pleasant Acres”. He and his wife lived here for over 30 years and still have grandchildren living a few houses down from us. Upon meeting his granddaughter and hearing the story, we decided to honor him and his family by keeping the name. My wife and I have lived here since March 2020, and we are excited to share this little slice of heaven with our friends, family, and future guests. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Pleasant Acres where you will have access to over 7 acres located on the national scenic river, Big Darby Creek. We are centrally located and Less than 10 minutes from Plain City, Dublin, and Hilliard, and only 30 mins from downtown Columbus! A short drive or bike ride to any of these lovely Ohio towns will find you a plethora of bars, restaurants, and shopping. We are on a very quiet and serene piece of land 1 mile upstream from Prairie Oaks metro park. Prairie Oaks is home to miles of hiking trails and Darby Bend lakes which has four lakes, bathrooms, shelter houses, and one the best dog parks in central Ohio. Available activities include kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, axe throwing, volleyball, wildlife watching(there is a bald eagle nest just down stream), and more! Boat and axe rental, shuttle service (availability based on our availability to do so. please ask when booking.), and firewood bundles are available.
from 
$40
 / night
98%
(1067)

The Lake at the Flying J Farm

8 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents250 acres ¡ Johnstown, OH
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, horses and chickens. 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.
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(421)

McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

15 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents230 acres ¡ Frazeysburg, OH
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.
from 
$35
 / night
97%
(30)

Riverside Drive Retreat.

1 site ¡ Tent11 acres ¡ Powell, OH
This is a beautiful 11 acre completely wooded lot with amazing topography and geologic diversity. It has been sought after by housing developers for years, but remains untouched due to legal battles related to driveway access. It currently provides an authentic secluded retreat in Powell, Ohio; a northwest suburb of Columbus, Oh. We are hoping to keep this land in it’s natural state (all of the site prep has been done by hand (and chain saw))- so come on out, enjoy a primitive retreat and contribute to furthering this land’s interesting story. 😀Learn more about this land:This is a neat “primitive” campsite that is tucked into a natural wooded lot on 11 acres. It is located in Powell, Ohio- a northwest suburb of Columbus, Ohio.  It would be ideal for campers seeking a close get away from Columbus or the suburbs, who would like to disconnect a bit and immerse themselves in nature. We've also had some people traveling through Columbus enjoy a quick stay here.  This is the only site on the 11 acres, so you won't have any other campers to contend with.  The site is quite secluded from about June through early October.  In the fall, it should be noted that the trees will lose their leaves.  The result is that you can hear some traffic on occasion.  Also, you may notice the neighbor's houses when you first arrive.  Most people are able to get past this quite easily- as once you settle in you tend to forget about those things and enjoy the surrounding 11 acres of nature.  The site is mostly Ohio woodlands. Part of it is elevated and part of it is in floodplain adjacent to the Scioto River- providing some interesting topography. There is a small waterfall and two small creeks; which are most often active in the spring and fall.  The O'Shaughnessy Reservoir/Scioto River is in walking distance.  There you can boat, canoe, kayak and fish, but just plain swimming is not allowed.  Note that the reservoir also has a formal boat “dock” just 2 miles down the road.  For those who may wish to “base camp”- there are numerous amenities offered in Powell and nearby Dublin and Delaware and there are several interesting parks and hiking trails which would be just a short drive away.  We understand the pricing on this site may be a bit higher than most- but this is primarily related to the fact that we offer free fire wood; so you do not have to worry about bringing your own or paying for bundles as you go.    
from 
$50
 / night
77%
(11)

Erik A.’s Land

149 sites ¡ RVs, Tents57 acres ¡ Lockbourne, OH
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(93)

Away From The World

103 sites ¡ Tents103 acres ¡ Mount Vernon, OH
Away From The World farm is a true getaway nestled in the highlands of Amish country. Experience 103 acres of lush woodland , green pastures and meadows in one of our four private Campsites equipped with Hammocks , Fire pits and Solar lights. Enjoy visiting our numerous farm animals , see our diverse wildlife and experience the silence of the forest with not a highway or stoplight in sight. We as well offer Farm to Table speciality dinners , tours and educational talks , or if you fancy just some peace and quiet , its easy to disappear here at Away From the World. It's bring your own Camping gear ( Tent , Cooler , Beers , Guitar , Drum , Air mattress , Scary book Etc) but if there is anything that you would need when you arrive just let us know. We hope you come here and experience paradise , there's really nothing quite like it. Learn more about this land: Away From The World farm is a true getaway nestled in the highlands of Amish country. Experience 103 acres of lush woodland , green pastures and meadows in one of our four  private Campsites equipped with Hammocks , Fire pits and Solar lights. Enjoy visiting our numerous farm animals , see our diverse wildlife and experience the silence of the forest with not a highway or stoplight in sight. We as well offer Farm to Table speciality dinners , tours and educational talks , or if you fancy just some peace and quiet , its easy to disappear here at Away From the World. It's bring your own Camping gear ( Tent , Cooler , Beers , Guitar , Drum , Air mattress , Scary book Etc) but if there is anything that you would need when you arrive just let us know. We hope you come here and experience paradise , there's really nothing quite like it. Follow us on Facebook at Away from the world farm
from 
$45
 / night
100%
(15)

Orchard View Farm & Show Cattle

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents130 acres ¡ Stoutsville, OH
Our hobby farm located in Stoutsville, Ohio is conveniently located just 30 minutes South of Columbus, Ohio. Just 30 minutes North of the Hocking Hills Region and its many attractions. We are within minutes drive from many hiking trails, Kayaking, Canoeing, breweries, wineries, restaurants and more. The surrounding small towns of Circleville, Canal Winchester and Lancaster serve up quaint shops and local color. Plan your stay to coincide with some local events like the Lancaster festival or the World Famous Circleville pumpkin show! Our farm boasts three stocked ponds, walking paths and trails as well as cattle, goats, horses and other hobby farm animals. Bring your own kayaks or canoes and check out the ponds yourself. Or throw in a line and see what the catch of the day is! Enjoy unobstructed views of our beautiful midwestern sunrise and sunsets. Prior to our family purchasing the property back in 2007, the farm served as a third generation apple orchard. Many of those trees are still around in our three orchards, plus some new additions over the past few years. Not only do my husband and I call the farm home, my parents and sister do as well. We would be happy to host you here on our 130 acres of rolling hills and hay fields.
from 
$50
 / night
95%
(29)

Geode Nature Domes

4 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents11 acres ¡ Chillicothe, OH
Come for the thrill, stay for the chill. Geode Nature Dome is a one-of-a-kind outdoor event space nestled at the foothills of the Appalachians in Chillicothe, Ohio. Designed to create epic outdoor experiences immersed in nature’s elements, our space is perfect for groups, teams, wellness getaways, and adventure-seekers of all kinds. Our unique geodesic domes and glamping sites offer you and your community a rare experience in the heart of nature surrounded by its rich elements. Thrill + Chill Escape the daily grind and tap into your divine adventurous spirit. We offer a series of exhilarating outdoor experiences that allow you to connect with the earth. Be inspired by the open fresh air, trees, mountains and seek the adventure that awaits you. However you wish to connect to nature, we provide you a range of experiences that match your energy level. Embrace your bold spirit and take on adventures like ziplining, mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking. Or take a deep breath and find something a little more tranquil like yoga, massage, meditation, foraging, or a nature walk. We want to share the magical space that Geode Nature Dome is while showing gratitude for our natural habitat. It is our mission to leave our space better than we found it. Adventure therapy is calling. Geode Nature Dome: Thrilling Events Brought to Life 36' Dome Ideal for 10 people 16' Dome Ideal for 2 people The Specs: Private, half-mile hiking trail on property Picnic area with fire pit Sunlit with ventilation in summer Majestic views Learn more about this land:
from 
$74
 / night
89%
(228)

Geneva Hills

11 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres ¡ Lancaster, OH
Located in the beautiful Hocking Hills in southern Fairfield County, Ohio, it is a quick and convenient drive that feels a million miles away - providing the serenity and connection with God's creation that only being emerged in nature can provide.
from 
$35
 / night
92%
(42)

Buckeye Lake Winery

7 sites ¡ RVs16 acres ¡ Thornville, OH
Learn more about this land:There are seven graveled drives located in the woods at Buckeye Lake Winery. Only self contained RV's are allowed, no tent camping. You will have access to Buckeye Lake. There is a kayak located near Buckeye Lake Winery that guests can use. Camp fires are permitted. Please take all trash with you. Restrooms are not provided at campsites, however there are facilities in the winery when open. Enjoy Buckeye Lake Winery and Restaurant during open hours of operation, see website for more specific information regarding hours of operation, menu and band schedules. Buckeye Lake has multiple bars and restaurants located around the lake, once considered the "Playground of Ohio". It's an undiscovered gem if you've never been here.
from 
$50
 / night

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Forest camping near Columbus guide

Overview

Looking for a camping adventure in the forest near Columbus, Ohio? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1100 options available near Columbus, Ohio with forest terrain, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and The Viking Longhall (257 reviews) for tried-and-true options. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like trash, potable water, and pet-friendly spaces. Get ready to explore historic sites, go boating, and try out wind sports. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

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