The best forest campgrounds near Fostoria, Ohio

Fostoria has over 140 forest camping options, with a thick canopy overhead and plenty of trails underfoot. Expect shaded campsites, a steady chorus of birds, and the chance to spot deer on early morning hikes. Most spots allow campfires—perfect for cooking or just thawing out after snow sports in colder months. Showers and toilets are common, so you won’t have to rough it. Prices start at $30 a night, with the average sitting around $42. Check out Rusty's Retreat with pond and river (188 reviews) for easy river access, Farley’s Farm Sanctuary (13 reviews) if you like animal encounters, or LRB Farm Hidden Escape (3 reviews) for a quieter, tucked-away spot. Hike, watch wildlife, and settle in under the trees—Fostoria’s forests make it easy to unplug.

97% (247)

Top-rated campgrounds

Fostoria has over 140 forest camping options, with a thick canopy overhead and plenty of trails underfoot. Expect shaded campsites, a steady chorus of birds, and the chance to spot deer on early morning hikes. Most spots allow campfires—perfect for cooking or just thawing out after snow sports in colder months. Showers and toilets are common, so you won’t have to rough it. Prices start at $30 a night, with the average sitting around $42. Check out Rusty's Retreat with pond and river (188 reviews) for easy river access, Farley’s Farm Sanctuary (13 reviews) if you like animal encounters, or LRB Farm Hidden Escape (3 reviews) for a quieter, tucked-away spot. Hike, watch wildlife, and settle in under the trees—Fostoria’s forests make it easy to unplug.

97% (247)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%

(333)

6.7mi from Fostoria · 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.

2. Engedi Acres

100%

(3)

11mi from Fostoria · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Findlay, OH

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.

3. Gotta Getaway RV Park

80%

(5)

34mi from Fostoria · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · Bellevue, OH

Explore Endless Adventures Near Gotta Getaway RV Park! Your escape to Gotta Getaway RV Park puts you at the center of excitement! Explore a variety of attractions just a short drive away, perfect for all ages and interests. Here's a glimpse of what awaits you, checkout the Places Nearby Beyond this list, discover even more hidden gems and local favorites! Gotta Getaway RV Park is your perfect campground near Cedar Point, Lake Erie, Put-In-Bay for exploring all that the region has to offer. Check out our amenities!

4. Van Buren State Park

100%

(8)

25 sites · Van Buren, Ohio

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

Toilets

5. South Bass Island State Park

100%

(7)

24 sites · Put In Bay, Ohio

White cliffs and sparkling blue waters make for a warm invite from South Bass Island State Park. Try to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or painted turtle from your boat, or just listen to the waves lap against the stony shore of Lake Erie. Bring that license to catch some fresh fish, where a cleaning station makes dinner prep just a little less messy. Once you're ready to get your adventure on, seek out the glacial grooves near the camping area or ice skate or fish the frozen waters when the frost takes over. Located on the north side of the island, Put-in-Bay is only a short distance away, along with all the restaurants and shopping you could hope for.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Farley’s Farm Sanctuary

100%

(17)

37mi from Fostoria · 1 site · Tent · Swanton, OH

Farley’s Farm Sanctuary is a grassroots 501c3 nonprofit animal sanctuary located on 5 acres in Swanton, OH. The campsite is located in the heart of the woods. This is a hike in primitive camp site (about 1/4 mile walk depending where you park) . We have a wagon and wheelbarrows available for use for hauling stuff back to the site. All money raised from this camp site goes back into building our sanctuary and provides ongoing care for our rescued animals! Oak Openings Metropark (including HEAVY Brewery) is located less than 5 miles away and offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Also located nearby is Johnston’s Fruit Farm (apple picking, pumpkin patch, fresh cut flowers, etc.) Tano’s Pizza (we recommend V-6 without cheese plus breadsticks no parm) and China Garden (vegetable tofu!) will deliver food here. The campsite includes a fire pit and composting toilet!

7. LRB Farm Hidden Escape

100%

(3)

44mi from Fostoria · 3 sites · Tents · Harrod, OH

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.  

8. The Eco Camp | Oak Openings

100%

(26)

35mi from Fostoria · 11 sites · Swanton, OH

Whether you are hiking the mile-long trails of Oak Openings, come kayaking on the Maumee river, go biking on the Wabash Cannonball, or you are arriving by car - The Eco Camp is your home in nature. Featuring luxurious and spacious tents for up to four persons, we provide almost everything you need for a worry-free stay. Each of our tents includes a comfortable queen size mattress, solar chargers for your phones and gadgets, and a charcoal grill - as well as lots of other goodies. Our 16-foot Lotus Belle tents even include a private toilet tent so you don't have to walk to the restrooms.All guests at The Eco Camp can enjoy the facilities of Bluegrass Campground, our host for the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Bluegrass Campground offers a camp store, swimming pond, catch-and-release fishing, arcades, and weekend entertainment.

9. Shade Acres

40mi from Fostoria · 88 sites · Port Clinton, OH

Nestled beneath a canopy of large, mature shade trees, Shade Acres Campground and Cottages stands out as a serene retreat on Catawba Island, Ohio. This family-owned campground offers a clean and peaceful environment, making it an ideal getaway for families, including your furry friends (with the exception of certain breeds). Just remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them! For fishing enthusiasts, our campground is conveniently located near the stunning shores of Lake Erie, renowned as the Walleye fishing capital of the world. You'll find an array of marinas, bait shops, boat ramps, and docks in the vicinity, ensuring you have everything you need for a successful fishing trip. We even provide fish cleaning and freezer services right on-site for your convenience. Additionally, Shade Acres is just minutes away from The Miller Ferry and Jet Express, offering easy access to the nearby islands. If you don’t own an RV, don’t worry! You can choose to stay in one of our comfortable, air-conditioned cottages. For larger groups, we also offer a spacious four-bedroom rental house and a bunkhouse that accommodates up to 26 guests. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Shade Acres Campground and Cottages!

10. Middle Bass Island State Park

20 sites · Put In Bay, Ohio

Boaters, rejoice! One of the newest state parks in Ohio, Middle Bass Island State Park is rockin' a 190-slip marina just waiting for you to join in on the fun. Park your beauty of a watercraft in one of the seasonal or transient slips, then enjoy the chirp of migrating songbirds and the smell of fresh lakeside air. A mini-golf area and bicycle rental just ups the fun. Once you've boated around to your heart's content, consider checking out the historic Marblehead Lighthouse off S.R. 163, or cast a line on the fishing pier at the nearby Catawba Island State Park. Go on, we think it'll really float your boat.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

11. Kelleys Island State Park

100%

(3)

25 sites · Kelleys Island, Ohio

Get decked out...In a yurt...On an Island...In the middle of Lake Erie. Now where else can you say that?! At Kelley’s Island State Park, on what is known as Lake Erie’s Emerald Isle, you can have the adventure of your dreams. Take a ferry to arrive on this pristine island before setting in for your stay. Choose daytime activities such as hiking or mountain biking on dryland. If you prefer a bit of H2O, don’t hesitate to rent a kayak and hit the water! Boat rentals are found on the sandy beach, where you can also sit back with your book and chill out. Kelley’s Island State Park is where weekends are made.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

12. Back 40 Campground

49mi from Fostoria · 12 sites · Rushsylvania, OH

Back 40 Campground stands out as a hidden gem in northern Logan County, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that have delighted visitors for over 40 years. Nestled just a short 9-mile drive north of Bellefontaine off State Route 68, and conveniently located 10 miles south of Kenton and 12 miles east of Indian Lake, this campground spans over 34 acres of rolling hills and features two serene ponds. Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, nature walks, volleyball, basketball, biking, swimming, picnicking, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets and stargazing. The spacious campsites provide ample room for campers to relax and unwind without encroaching on their neighbors. Onsite amenities enhance the camping experience, featuring RV hookup sites, a dump station, a shelter house, a dog swimming area, a playground, volleyball and basketball courts, as well as clean showers and restrooms. For added entertainment, the lodge includes a pool table, foosball table, air hockey table, event tables and chairs, and a cozy fireplace. Additionally, families can enjoy the GaGa Pit and a generous 100' x 50' dog run.

Camper favorites near Fostoria

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Farley’s Farm Sanctuary

100%

(17)

37mi from Fostoria · 1 site · Tent · Swanton, OH

Farley’s Farm Sanctuary is a grassroots 501c3 nonprofit animal sanctuary located on 5 acres in Swanton, OH. The campsite is located in the heart of the woods. This is a hike in primitive camp site (about 1/4 mile walk depending where you park) . We have a wagon and wheelbarrows available for use for hauling stuff back to the site. All money raised from this camp site goes back into building our sanctuary and provides ongoing care for our rescued animals! Oak Openings Metropark (including HEAVY Brewery) is located less than 5 miles away and offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Also located nearby is Johnston’s Fruit Farm (apple picking, pumpkin patch, fresh cut flowers, etc.) Tano’s Pizza (we recommend V-6 without cheese plus breadsticks no parm) and China Garden (vegetable tofu!) will deliver food here. The campsite includes a fire pit and composting toilet!

LRB Farm Hidden Escape

100%

(3)

44mi from Fostoria · 3 sites · Tents · Harrod, OH

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.  

The Eco Camp | Oak Openings

100%

(26)

35mi from Fostoria · 11 sites · Swanton, OH

Whether you are hiking the mile-long trails of Oak Openings, come kayaking on the Maumee river, go biking on the Wabash Cannonball, or you are arriving by car - The Eco Camp is your home in nature. Featuring luxurious and spacious tents for up to four persons, we provide almost everything you need for a worry-free stay. Each of our tents includes a comfortable queen size mattress, solar chargers for your phones and gadgets, and a charcoal grill - as well as lots of other goodies. Our 16-foot Lotus Belle tents even include a private toilet tent so you don't have to walk to the restrooms.All guests at The Eco Camp can enjoy the facilities of Bluegrass Campground, our host for the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Bluegrass Campground offers a camp store, swimming pond, catch-and-release fishing, arcades, and weekend entertainment.

Shade Acres

40mi from Fostoria · 88 sites · Port Clinton, OH

Nestled beneath a canopy of large, mature shade trees, Shade Acres Campground and Cottages stands out as a serene retreat on Catawba Island, Ohio. This family-owned campground offers a clean and peaceful environment, making it an ideal getaway for families, including your furry friends (with the exception of certain breeds). Just remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them! For fishing enthusiasts, our campground is conveniently located near the stunning shores of Lake Erie, renowned as the Walleye fishing capital of the world. You'll find an array of marinas, bait shops, boat ramps, and docks in the vicinity, ensuring you have everything you need for a successful fishing trip. We even provide fish cleaning and freezer services right on-site for your convenience. Additionally, Shade Acres is just minutes away from The Miller Ferry and Jet Express, offering easy access to the nearby islands. If you don’t own an RV, don’t worry! You can choose to stay in one of our comfortable, air-conditioned cottages. For larger groups, we also offer a spacious four-bedroom rental house and a bunkhouse that accommodates up to 26 guests. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Shade Acres Campground and Cottages!

Back 40 Campground

49mi from Fostoria · 12 sites · Rushsylvania, OH

Back 40 Campground stands out as a hidden gem in northern Logan County, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that have delighted visitors for over 40 years. Nestled just a short 9-mile drive north of Bellefontaine off State Route 68, and conveniently located 10 miles south of Kenton and 12 miles east of Indian Lake, this campground spans over 34 acres of rolling hills and features two serene ponds. Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, nature walks, volleyball, basketball, biking, swimming, picnicking, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets and stargazing. The spacious campsites provide ample room for campers to relax and unwind without encroaching on their neighbors. Onsite amenities enhance the camping experience, featuring RV hookup sites, a dump station, a shelter house, a dog swimming area, a playground, volleyball and basketball courts, as well as clean showers and restrooms. For added entertainment, the lodge includes a pool table, foosball table, air hockey table, event tables and chairs, and a cozy fireplace. Additionally, families can enjoy the GaGa Pit and a generous 100' x 50' dog run.

Public campgrounds near Fostoria

100%

(8)

Van Buren Campground

12mi from Fostoria · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Van Buren State Park

100%

(7)

South Bass Island Campground

45mi from Fostoria · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in South Bass Island State Park

Middle Bass Island Campground

47mi from Fostoria · 20 sites · in Middle Bass Island State Park

100%

(3)

Kelleys Island Campground

48mi from Fostoria · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kelleys Island State Park

Stories from the community

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

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!

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.

T

September 2025

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Gotta Getaway RV Park

Really pretty, well taken care of place. Level site worth a wood deck. Host was helpful and friendly. Lots of permanent residents had really fun Halloween decorations. We thought we were getting away from the Interstate to a quieter spot but didn't realize that it was right of of a busy highway and there was a lot of truck noise. I used earplugs and it didn't bother me.

S

Saif

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Farley’s Farm Sanctuary

Highly recommended!! The whole experience of meeting rescued animals and camping in woods was truly amazing. Melanie was super friendly and saved me after giving me some cardboard and paper to help me start the fire :)

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.

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.

S

Stephanie

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Gotta Getaway RV Park

The tent site was super clean and easy to get to. Check in was easy. The site was by other people in campers/RV’s. Shower house and bathrooms were super clean and super nice, also a short walk from camp site.

G

Georgi

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Farley’s Farm Sanctuary

Melanie was a great host and so accommodating to our late evening arrival. She also went above and beyond to help me out when i encountered some poison ivy. The animals are wonderful as is the mission of the sanctuary! Great place to spend the night, very peaceful yet still close to I-90 for travelers.

A

Aubriana

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

site number 1 was beautiful. it was a good spot to relax and the girls loved hanging out in the creek.

C

Christy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

The property is BEAUTIFUL! And our host was very kind!

H

Hunter

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Engedi Acres

Cabin has all the necessary amenities and the property is so beautiful! Tons of butterflies to enjoy.

Natalie

August 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

We had a wonderful time at Rusty’s! 🐾 Our group of four adults, 2 silly (and sometimes loud) little girls, plus a couple of pups felt so welcomed from the moment we arrived. We loved meeting Rusty and the rest of the animals, the golf cart tours of the property, kayaking, and hearing the story behind this special place. The accommodations were comfortable, the hospitality was above and beyond, and we really enjoyed our stay... even in the 95° weather. Thankful for the electric hookup for our camper's A/C! We’re so grateful to Jay & Heather for opening their property to us and making our stay so memorable. Highly recommend!

K

Kendra

August 2025

1 night at Engedi Acres

Magical little spot, fields and meadows, lovely hosts, secluded yet a wide-open sky for star gazing. Inside the cabin is the coziest, vintage vibe appointed with thoughtful extras everywhere I turned. I can’t rightfully call it camping: I felt absolutely spoiled!

b

brian

August 2025

33 ft Class A

1 night at Gotta Getaway RV Park

The camp was well maintained, the pool was pristine The grass campsite could have been a problem in rain you should make sure you have blocks. The shower area was absolutely fantastic. We will definitely stay there again. The cost was moderately priced

D

Damon

August 2025

23 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Jay and Heather were super friendly and helpful. Their 2 miniature horses were very cute and Rusty, the bull was huge. Great walking trails through the woods.