The best campgrounds near Columbus, Ohio with swimming

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience near Columbus, Ohio, with swimming as your preferred activity, you're in luck. We have over 700 options available in this area that cater to your swimming needs. From lakeside retreats to riverside oases, you'll find the perfect spot to take a dip and relax. With options as low as $15 per night and an average price of $35 per night, you'll definitely find something within your budget. Some of our top campsites with swimming options include Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews), and McKee Farm (188 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as toilets, cooking equipment, and campfires, as well as activities like fishing, surfing, and wildlife watching. So dive in and start planning your next camping adventure with Hipcamp!

90% (787)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for a camping experience near Columbus, Ohio, with swimming as your preferred activity, you're in luck. We have over 700 options available in this area that cater to your swimming needs. From lakeside retreats to riverside oases, you'll find the perfect spot to take a dip and relax. With options as low as $15 per night and an average price of $35 per night, you'll definitely find something within your budget. Some of our top campsites with swimming options include Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews), and McKee Farm (188 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as toilets, cooking equipment, and campfires, as well as activities like fishing, surfing, and wildlife watching. So dive in and start planning your next camping adventure with Hipcamp!

90% (787)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Raven's Retreat Hocking Hills

96%

(36)

38mi from Columbus · 5 sites · Lodging · Laurelville, OH

Experience Raven’s Retreat Hocking Hills, a one-of-a-kind, adults-only, nature sanctuary created by two eco-conscious artists, including a master sculptor. Our art-filled retreat invites planners, solo travelers, couples, and groups. Book our sustainable Art Lodge (sleeps 16) or intimate Art Bungalow (sleeps 2), offering upscale spaces for wellness getaways, yoga, workshops, corporate retreats, intimate gatherings, and events. Hidden on 58 private acres with hiking and a wellness trail, just 2 miles from town and near Hocking Hills State Parks. Enjoy stunning views, a forest platform for movement and mindfulness, and serene backdrops for micro-weddings and special occasions. Host your own gathering or let us curate a custom experience. Our art-filled nature retreat welcomes planners, solo travelers, couples, and groups. Host your own gathering or let us curate a custom experience in our 58-acre sanctuary. Bookings fund animal rescue. Raven's Retreat Hocking Hills is just 2 miles from where you can get groceries, gas, supplies, and visit 6 family-owned restaurants. The closest larger towns are Logan, Lancaster, Circleville, and Chillicothe. Upon booking, you'll receive our personal cell numbers. State Parks/Nature Preserves nearby are: Rockhouse ( 6.5 miles ) Conkles Hollow ( 10.5 miles ) Whispering Cave ( 14 miles ) Old Man's Cave ( 14 miles ) Ash Cave ( 13 miles ) and several more! There are over a mile of private Hiking trails on the property. We are working with local naturalists to ensure that we maintain a healthy forest. We are unable to accommodate domestic animal friends/pets due to our senior dog Peanut who you may see somewhere around the property during your stay. The Sculptdecor Studio, run by my partner and master sculptor Dustin Weatherby, is on the 58-acres closest to the Art Lodge located at the bottom of the driveway. Dustin specializes in animatronics, steel sculptures, wood carvings, mixed media sculptures, and starting in 2025, will offer live art performances and experience packages for guests. Feel free to stop by the studio and say hello, our home is on the same 58-acre property. Although you cannot see our home from the Art Lodge or Tiny Bungalows, we're often nearby for assistance. Your hosts, -Raven and Dustin-

2. Shady Owl Ranch

99%

(176)

41mi from Columbus · 4 sites · Lodging · Mount Vernon, OH

Shady Owl Ranch is a 18 acre non-profit animal sanctuary with dogs, cats, chickens, ducks and turkeys. The cats and poultry are free range so if you are fearful of chickens, ducks or turkeys, you probably shouldn't stay here. 😁 Owners Chuck and Amanda moved from Northern California and re-established their rescue here in Central Ohio. We have two finished studio cabins. They are very close (2 miles) to the town of Mount Vernon, OH with hiking trails on the property. Pets are allowed but there are free range animals on the property so their safety is priority. We have added a 2 acre fenced in area for dogs off leash. It's our version of a Dog Park. Plenty of bike trails around town and only 20 miles to Mohican State Park. Farm fresh eggs from our rescued chickens and local honey are available for purchase. Money from our vacation rental helps with feeding our rescue animals and expanding our non-profit animal sanctuary.

3. McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

99%

(597)

46mi from Columbus · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

4. Buckeye Lake Winery

89%

(57)

28mi from Columbus · 7 sites · RVs · Thornville, OH

Learn more about this land: There are four 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. Camp fires are permitted when there aren't local fire bans in effect. 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.

5. Geneva Hills

89%

(297)

31mi from Columbus · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

6. Luxe Carpeneter's Cabin : 32 acres

35mi from Columbus · 1 site · Lodging · Laurelville, OH

Featured on Discovery+ and Max! Contemporary Eco-conscious cabin with luxury amenities tucked in our 32 acre pine forest. Just 5 minutes to necessities (like pizza) and 10-20 minutes to all the outdoor adventures Hocking County Ohio offers. The modern, yet cozy, Carpenter's Cabin has a small footprint of 934sf but explodes with over 1700sf of interior living space over four floors and another 600sf is available on the three decks. The cabin boasts two owner's bedrooms, two bunk rooms, and one alcove bed in the library to sleep up to eight adults and twelve total guests. Three full baths round out the private spaces. There are two media rooms - The Conversation Pit on the main floor and in the lower level walkout. The cabin was built as the first eco-luxe cabin in the Hocking Hills and includes luxury amenities such as organic bamboo sheets, Turkish cotton /eucalyptus bath towels, and natural body products to name just a few. Explore our 32 acre pine forest in the Appalachian foothills, enjoy the hot tub, fire pit, and our three covered decks (including a third story screened deck off one of the two master suites). Check out The Perch four stories up, and the extremely popular conversation pit, known affectionately as The Pit. The addition of the Jaybird Fort (a mini version of the Carpenter's Cabin) keeps children active with imaginative play outdoors. The Carpenter's Cabin is just 5 minutes to downtown Laurelville for supplies, or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. No smoking, vaping, marijuana, etc inside the cabin or in our 32 acres of forest. No animals. No parties. No firearms use, sparklers, fireworks, etc. No ATVs, dirt bikes, etc. Camera on property, facing driveway

7. The Farm On Kenyon Road

89%

(9)

42mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mount Vernon, OH

In the heart of Knox County, our family of 6 has forged a life surrounded by friends, animals, locally grown food, and fellowship. Surrounded by hiking trails, the Kokosing river, and only minutes from Gambier, Mount Vernon, and Apple Valley lake, you can play by day and then watch a perfect farm sunset at night.

8. Hocking Hills Cabins & Resort

100%

(4)

43mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Lodging · Logan, OH

Nestled in the scenic hills of Ohio, Hocking Hills Cabins & Resort offers amazing rental cabins, each with its own character and charm. Included in your stay are a variety of fun and enjoyable amenities to make your time with us even more special. We offer on-site hiking, a fishing pond and sand volleyball court. All of our cabins feature hot tubs, firepits, wifi and more. Amazing location in the middle of Hocking Hills - convenient access to activities, restaurants, shopping and highways. Property is continuing to improve and guests may hear random daytime noise during their stay.

9. Buckeye Grove

100%

(3)

46mi from Columbus · 1 site · Lodging · Howard, OH

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable riverfront escape. Cozy camper with tranquil river view. Plenty of room for all camping activities! A very short drive from local restaurants and hiking. You’ll be less than 1 mile from the Kokosing Gap Trailhead in Howard, 10 minutes from Honey Run Waterfall or Wolf Run Regional Park and 30 mins from Mohican National Park. Rather you're looking for a family get away with the kiddos or a private trip for two, this is the place for you!

10. Kickapoo Kamping

88%

(56)

47mi from Columbus · 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.

11. Monday Creek

50%

(4)

48mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Lodging · New Straitsville, OH

Set up in an open field or take cover under some trees. Acess to a beautiful clear water stream. Close to plenty of hocking county activities such as old mans cave, zipe lining adventures, hiking trails, atv trails and more. Plenty of parking room and a pole barn with electric available to charge devices ect. Soon to be a glamping site with tree houses.

Camper favorites near Columbus

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Farm On Kenyon Road

89%

(9)

42mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mount Vernon, OH

In the heart of Knox County, our family of 6 has forged a life surrounded by friends, animals, locally grown food, and fellowship. Surrounded by hiking trails, the Kokosing river, and only minutes from Gambier, Mount Vernon, and Apple Valley lake, you can play by day and then watch a perfect farm sunset at night.

Hocking Hills Cabins & Resort

100%

(4)

43mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Lodging · Logan, OH

Nestled in the scenic hills of Ohio, Hocking Hills Cabins & Resort offers amazing rental cabins, each with its own character and charm. Included in your stay are a variety of fun and enjoyable amenities to make your time with us even more special. We offer on-site hiking, a fishing pond and sand volleyball court. All of our cabins feature hot tubs, firepits, wifi and more. Amazing location in the middle of Hocking Hills - convenient access to activities, restaurants, shopping and highways. Property is continuing to improve and guests may hear random daytime noise during their stay.

Buckeye Grove

100%

(3)

46mi from Columbus · 1 site · Lodging · Howard, OH

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable riverfront escape. Cozy camper with tranquil river view. Plenty of room for all camping activities! A very short drive from local restaurants and hiking. You’ll be less than 1 mile from the Kokosing Gap Trailhead in Howard, 10 minutes from Honey Run Waterfall or Wolf Run Regional Park and 30 mins from Mohican National Park. Rather you're looking for a family get away with the kiddos or a private trip for two, this is the place for you!

Kickapoo Kamping

88%

(56)

47mi from Columbus · 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.

Monday Creek

50%

(4)

48mi from Columbus · 3 sites · Lodging · New Straitsville, OH

Set up in an open field or take cover under some trees. Acess to a beautiful clear water stream. Close to plenty of hocking county activities such as old mans cave, zipe lining adventures, hiking trails, atv trails and more. Plenty of parking room and a pole barn with electric available to charge devices ect. Soon to be a glamping site with tree houses.

Public campgrounds near Columbus

96%

(14)

Alum Creek Campground

18mi from Columbus · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Alum Creek State Park

86%

(13)

Delaware Campground

27mi from Columbus · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Delaware State Park

95%

(10)

Deer Creek Campground

27mi from Columbus · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Deer Creek State Park

90%

(5)

Buck Creek Campground

39mi from Columbus · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Buck Creek State Park

100%

(2)

Hocking State Forest Horse Camp

40mi from Columbus · 23 sites · in Hocking State Forest

100%

(3)

Tar Hollow Campground

43mi from Columbus · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tar Hollow State Park

98%

(49)

Old Man’s Cave Campground

45mi from Columbus · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hocking Hills State Park

90%

(10)

Dillon Campground

46mi from Columbus · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dillon State Park

Tar Hollow State Forest Horse Camp

47mi from Columbus · 46 sites · in Tar Hollow State Forest

Stories from the community

E

Eshan

3 weeks ago

1 night at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

Very clean, cozy, and unique glamping experience in a scenic farm area!

E

Elizabeth

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

Had a great stay at this little treehouse! Hosts were very responsive and helpful. Dogs loved running around the nearby areas, creek and fields!

I

Isaac

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

My kids and I had an absolute blast camping at Tullihas in the Trees! It's just as amazing as it looks in the pictures and so much more! The beds were unquestionably comfy, the cabin very well appointed, and despite the freezing night temperatures, the little heater in the corner kept us toasty warm without a struggle. My kidds loved the swings, I enjoyed the hammock quite a bit, and that was easily the nicest latrine I've seen in my 30+ years of camping. A perfectly sized cabin for a family of three!

S

Sierra

October 2025

1 night at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

I loved camping at Carol’s Tullihas in the Trees. The space was cozy and the outdoors scenery was beautiful. The perfect place for a night away to reset. Thank you, Carol!

M

Matthew

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

We absolutely loved our time spent at this site! It was a beautiful location and so much fun to stay up with the trees. We are already planning our return trip.

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Geneva Hills

Fantastic. Close to Columbus, and the place was so quiet and empty, it was great.

Jeff

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

The treehouse was fantastic and a fun place to stay. The hosts have thought of the details, such as stove, coffee maker (even some ground coffee), lights, chairs and hammocks, to name a few. Some challenges we had, but may not be an issue for others. The treehouse is steps from a road that gets some traffic, not too bad except for really loud side x sides. There was a nearby event so side x side traffic was extra. Also it’s wasps season (late summer )and they like the house. Hosts spray but there’s only so much you can do. Even with the challenges we’d stay here again.

M

Molly

September 2025

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

We loved staying at the treehouse. It was an amazing opportunity to unplug and enjoy nature. The treehouse had everything we needed, the outhouse was clean, and the views were beautiful! Hosts were amazing & attentive as well. We will be back!

H

Hannah

September 2025

3 nights at Shady Owl Ranch

Me and my Dad stayed at The Shady Owl Ranch for a few days and it was amazing!! It was super cute, I loved every small detail, with the pictures on the walls and the whole esthetic was cozy- we loved everything so much!! It was so peaceful and full of animals!! We will definitely be back!! Also the folks here are super nice 🫶🏻 (caught a lot of fish too) 🎣😁

E

Elizabeth

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

Absolutely beutiful! The host family was so kind. An amazing off the grid experience!

R

Rishav

September 2025

Group trip

2 nights at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

Amazing hosts and tons of beautiful hiking trails! They were always ready to help and responded super quickly. They even gave us a trail map that made exploring easy and fun. I’d highly recommend this place to everyone

A

Amber

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Shady Owl Ranch

This was a wonderful location and my children (and dogs) and I had a great time. Pond was beautiful, fire pit made a peaceful evening, and the cabin was clean and welcoming. We can’t wait to go back!

C

Cory

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Geneva Hills

A very beautiful campsite we stayed at I wish the lake was a little bit bigger and more accessible but they were plenty to do on the campgrounds very helpful woman working the front office The pool was closed even though it was Labor Day weekend we could have really used a good swim only stayed one night but it was great

J

Jules

August 2025

Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

Our time at the treehouse was perfect! It was the perfect outdoor getaway, with the comforts of an indoor space to sleep. Went with my sister who had never been camping before and wasn’t sure if she’d like it, and now she can’t wait to go again!

B

Brett

August 2025

With kids

1 night at McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping

Great place! Great hosts. Would definitely come back.

R

Rebecca

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Geneva Hills

I enjoyed my stay. It was very peaceful. I would recommend and I will camp there again.

F

Faye

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Shady Owl Ranch

Oh my goodness!!!! I knew right when we pulled thru the gate this place would be perfect!! Loved the vibe!! Amanda’s property is so cozy & welcoming! Everything she does has a purpose. Our kiddos loved the pond & all the animals roaming. The kittens & of course Tom & Jerry the turkeys! The cabin was super cute & decorated to perfection! We loved everything about this place! Thank you!!

M

Michelle

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Shady Owl Ranch

Host were quick to respond to requests and questions. Cabin was Soo cute and perfect amount of space for us (2 adults and 1 older kid). Having the option for AC and a real bed is what I needed to relax and get away from "life" but also cook on the fire and sit by the water. Turkeys do get close and that was awesome. Would love to go back in every season! Thanks for a cool unique stay!

M

Maggie

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Geneva Hills

I wrote a review for this site for my 1st night. Hipcamp app wouldn’t let me book two nights ina row so I had to do 2 separate bookings. Resulted in 2 booking fees too. So- Hipcamp, take this as notice of a glitch? Campsite was great!

M

Maggie

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Geneva Hills

Really nice campgrounds. Tent sites are in forested area- we could just barely see our neighbors in the next site. Very quiet- no background traffic. There are a lot of activity ‘zones’, I imagine that it would get busy. There are restrooms at the pool- heavily used and maybe not appealing but they are not dirty nor are they secure. But there is a real nice, finished full bath that locks on the back side of the welcome center. I would stay here again. Note: if you are in a regular car- as opposed to a truck- avoid Blue Gill site, you have to come in/out at an extreme angle to about bottoming out!