The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Grand Rapids, Ohio

Looking to go camping near Grand Rapids, Ohio and craving a riverside retreat? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 265 options in the area that cater to river lovers, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to set up camp. Whether you're seeking a serene escape or an adventurous getaway, there's something for everyone. Check out top-rated campsites like Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (258 reviews), The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews), and Sweet Grass Dairy a Regenerative Family Farm (115 reviews) for tried and true options. And with popular amenities like cooking equipment, toilets, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, you can enjoy activities like swimming, biking, and hiking in the picturesque surroundings. So pack your gear and get ready to experience the beauty of camping by the river!

99% (708)

Top-rated campgrounds near Grand Rapids

Looking to go camping near Grand Rapids, Ohio and craving a riverside retreat? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 265 options in the area that cater to river lovers, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to set up camp. Whether you're seeking a serene escape or an adventurous getaway, there's something for everyone. Check out top-rated campsites like Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (258 reviews), The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews), and Sweet Grass Dairy a Regenerative Family Farm (115 reviews) for tried and true options. And with popular amenities like cooking equipment, toilets, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, you can enjoy activities like swimming, biking, and hiking in the picturesque surroundings. So pack your gear and get ready to experience the beauty of camping by the river!

99% (708)

Top-rated campgrounds near Grand Rapids

1. Uncle Chuck's Cabin

100%

(107)

4.3mi from Grand Rapids · 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.

2. Engedi Acres

100%

(3)

31mi from Grand Rapids · 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.

3. Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

98%

(54)

17mi from Grand Rapids · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our working bison ranch, where a unique experience awaits you. We are 10 minutes from Interstate 80/90. Explore our ranch through walking the paths that meander along the creek and around each bison pasture. As you stroll, discover the serenity of a large pond teeming with fish, dragonflies, butterflies, and amphibians. Visit our onsite store, where you can purchase our high-quality bison meat and unique bison artifacts. Additionally, from May to October, we offer tractor-drawn wagon tours into the pastures, providing an up-close encounter with these majestic animals. Please call Carmen at +14193201283 to schedule your tour. Nestled within a few miles of charming small towns boasting independent restaurants and stores, our location offers a perfect blend of rural tranquility and local amenities. For those seeking more extensive shopping options, we are conveniently situated within 15 miles of larger Toledo suburbs, featuring a variety of big-box stores. Our bison enjoy over 55 acres of pasture, benefitting from our commitment to rotational grazing for both pasture and bison health. At our ranch, we prioritize working harmoniously with the land, fostering the return of native flora and fauna to our property. Situated a few miles north of Swanton, our land, once used for standard crops, has undergone a transformation. After five years, we proudly boast an array of accomplishments, including the identification of over 25 different bird species in a single morning, an increase in local native pollinator populations (including the monarch butterfly), and a reduction in soil erosion. Join us on this journey as we invite you to experience the beauty of nature, the magnificence of bison, and the positive impact of sustainable practices on our land.

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

5. Maumee Bay State Park

100%

(6)

25 sites · Harbor View, Ohio

With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Riverside Camping

95%

(488)

46mi from Grand Rapids · 5 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!

7. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%

(333)

22mi from Grand Rapids · 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.

8. Lost Nations Cowboy Town And Cabins

100%

(3)

45mi from Grand Rapids · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Secluded wooded 17 acres with hill like mountains with a river and nature pond for fishing trails horse pastures all surrounded by 1,100 acres of Lost Nations state ground

9. Tails and Trails Horse Farm

98%

(80)

38mi from Grand Rapids · 3 sites · Tents

Tails and Trails Farm is a gorgeous property that sits on 80 acres at the edge of the Irish Hills. We offer a place of healing and support for humans and animals through nature, music, and interaction. Many of our animals are rescues and we use them in a variety of therapies in an effort of healing for human an animal alike. We offer horseback riding lessons, pony rides. You can also tour the farm, meet the animals, and hear their stories. We look forward to meeting you! Learn more about this land: Come and enjoy our farm! Tails and Trails is a small family-owned horse farm in the Irish Hills of southeastern Michigan. Our campsite sits in the middle of 30 acres of private woods. There is a fire ring with room for seating and a separate area to place your tent directly adjacent. There is also another sitting area and plenty of options to hang hammocks. The site is about a 10 minute or .5 mile walk through a beautiful wooded trail from the parking area.  We also offer scheduled horseback trail rides across our 82 acres, for people of all ages. (If you have small children please specify so we can discuss options.) Please send us a message if you are interested to inquire about availability or if there are any questions we can answer.  In addition to the many full-size horses, we also have several miniature horses, miniature donkeys, chickens, 5 dogs, barn cats, and a pot-belly pig. All of which love attention from humans of all ages.  We are a 420 friendly property as cannabis is legal in Michigan. There are 5 dispensaries in Adrian offering both Recreational and Medical cannabis products for sale. If you would like help or advice about the local market please just ask.  This is a pack it in, pack it out campsite. The closest source of potable water is in the barn or about a ten-minute walk from the site.  This is a perfect social distancing campsite however you are still only a 10-minute drive to the nearest grocery store and 20 minutes from some great swimming lakes, kayaking, and small-town allure in the Irish Hills area.  Ann Arbor is also only a 45-minute drive and has a bounty to offer anyone. We are very familiar with the city and can offer advice or suggestions if you'd like. There is a kayak rental in Tecumseh which is about 15 minutes away where you can do an entire river loop and return to the same place thus requiring only one vehicle.  There are also several close lakes where you can drop your own kayak in and explore. If you’d like some more amenities then Walter Hayes State Park or Lake Hudson State Park are both about a 20-minute drive. We have trails throughout the woods and along with our fields for exploring. We welcome guests to wander and enjoy the property while respecting nature and all the things that live here. The area is alive with animals and creatures of all types. Families of deer and turkey call the farm home and don’t be surprised to hear a coyote howl at night. With natural water sources and different types of topography, we are blessed to have a variety of wildlife at our farm. We keep to ourselves however are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests and appreciate others getting to enjoy the beauty and serenity the country can offer. We welcome all humans of good character that show love to each other and the Earth.

10. LRB Farm Hidden Escape

100%

(3)

49mi from Grand Rapids · 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.  

11. Camp Lord Willing RV Park

47mi from Grand Rapids · 31 sites

Discover the charm of our family-owned RV Park, a unique destination that has been welcoming guests since 1958. Our commitment to providing an exceptional camping experience sets us apart, making us a favorite for both long-term and short-term RV stays. Open 24 hours a day, year-round, our park features full hookups on all lots, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. We take pride in continuously enhancing our facilities, creating a welcoming environment for our guests to enjoy for years to come. In addition to our excellent amenities, our RV Park is conveniently located near stunning natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities. Explore nearby restaurants and shops to complete your adventure. Join us and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation at our beloved RV Park!

Camper favorites near Grand Rapids

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Riverside Camping

95%

(488)

46mi from Grand Rapids · 5 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!

Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%

(333)

22mi from Grand Rapids · 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.

Lost Nations Cowboy Town And Cabins

100%

(3)

45mi from Grand Rapids · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Secluded wooded 17 acres with hill like mountains with a river and nature pond for fishing trails horse pastures all surrounded by 1,100 acres of Lost Nations state ground

Tails and Trails Horse Farm

98%

(80)

38mi from Grand Rapids · 3 sites · Tents

Tails and Trails Farm is a gorgeous property that sits on 80 acres at the edge of the Irish Hills. We offer a place of healing and support for humans and animals through nature, music, and interaction. Many of our animals are rescues and we use them in a variety of therapies in an effort of healing for human an animal alike. We offer horseback riding lessons, pony rides. You can also tour the farm, meet the animals, and hear their stories. We look forward to meeting you! Learn more about this land: Come and enjoy our farm! Tails and Trails is a small family-owned horse farm in the Irish Hills of southeastern Michigan. Our campsite sits in the middle of 30 acres of private woods. There is a fire ring with room for seating and a separate area to place your tent directly adjacent. There is also another sitting area and plenty of options to hang hammocks. The site is about a 10 minute or .5 mile walk through a beautiful wooded trail from the parking area.  We also offer scheduled horseback trail rides across our 82 acres, for people of all ages. (If you have small children please specify so we can discuss options.) Please send us a message if you are interested to inquire about availability or if there are any questions we can answer.  In addition to the many full-size horses, we also have several miniature horses, miniature donkeys, chickens, 5 dogs, barn cats, and a pot-belly pig. All of which love attention from humans of all ages.  We are a 420 friendly property as cannabis is legal in Michigan. There are 5 dispensaries in Adrian offering both Recreational and Medical cannabis products for sale. If you would like help or advice about the local market please just ask.  This is a pack it in, pack it out campsite. The closest source of potable water is in the barn or about a ten-minute walk from the site.  This is a perfect social distancing campsite however you are still only a 10-minute drive to the nearest grocery store and 20 minutes from some great swimming lakes, kayaking, and small-town allure in the Irish Hills area.  Ann Arbor is also only a 45-minute drive and has a bounty to offer anyone. We are very familiar with the city and can offer advice or suggestions if you'd like. There is a kayak rental in Tecumseh which is about 15 minutes away where you can do an entire river loop and return to the same place thus requiring only one vehicle.  There are also several close lakes where you can drop your own kayak in and explore. If you’d like some more amenities then Walter Hayes State Park or Lake Hudson State Park are both about a 20-minute drive. We have trails throughout the woods and along with our fields for exploring. We welcome guests to wander and enjoy the property while respecting nature and all the things that live here. The area is alive with animals and creatures of all types. Families of deer and turkey call the farm home and don’t be surprised to hear a coyote howl at night. With natural water sources and different types of topography, we are blessed to have a variety of wildlife at our farm. We keep to ourselves however are more than happy to accommodate reasonable requests and appreciate others getting to enjoy the beauty and serenity the country can offer. We welcome all humans of good character that show love to each other and the Earth.

LRB Farm Hidden Escape

100%

(3)

49mi from Grand Rapids · 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.  

Camp Lord Willing RV Park

47mi from Grand Rapids · 31 sites

Discover the charm of our family-owned RV Park, a unique destination that has been welcoming guests since 1958. Our commitment to providing an exceptional camping experience sets us apart, making us a favorite for both long-term and short-term RV stays. Open 24 hours a day, year-round, our park features full hookups on all lots, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. We take pride in continuously enhancing our facilities, creating a welcoming environment for our guests to enjoy for years to come. In addition to our excellent amenities, our RV Park is conveniently located near stunning natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities. Explore nearby restaurants and shops to complete your adventure. Join us and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation at our beloved RV Park!

Public campgrounds near Grand Rapids

Mary Jane Thurston Campground

1.4mi from Grand Rapids · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mary Jane Thurston State Park

100%

(6)

Maumee Bay Campground

31mi from Grand Rapids · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Maumee Bay State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Beth

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

We love this site and the host, Stacy does a great job responding back with our questions.

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

I

Ian

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

We had a great time in early November car camping at our site. Woke up in the morning to see a herd of bison graising basically right outside our car. Was easy to find and get too, even had a solar light marking the spot. The grass road could be a bit hard to get over if too muddy or snowy but we made it fine even with slightly bald tires. Not a ton of commotion out there either so it was nice and peaceful. Would recommend!

W

William

November 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

Lovely pasture, easy to get settled, great communication with Stacy!

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.

Marianne

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

4 nights at Riverside Camping

I was on site 1… site 2 is in the same area. Right near the water… nice grassy spot. Bryan brought wood to my site within 15 minutes.

Joe

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

A nice big, quiet campsite. It was cool to see the bison roaming.

April

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Riverside Camping

Nice area right by the water. I booked very last minute and Bryan was great about it. Beautiful area. Very close to the small downtown area. I will definitely be back next summer!!

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 : )

C

Carl

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Riverside Camping

Trains , but they dont bother me . There does seem to be more trains during the week than on our weekend stay . I was raised in the inner city so again they dont bother me. Great views , good people run it and I love the sound of the water. Nomadic Camping with Endless Weekends

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

G

George

October 2025

1 night at Lost Nations Cowboy Town And Cabins

The place is awesome. Holly went out of her way to make you feel welcome. Would recommend it. Would love to come back.

C

Cody

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Camping

Amazing hosts, very friendly, kind, and accommodating! Beautiful place they have and the site was gorgeous. Loved having a pond to myself! Secluded from other campers and very private. Will definitely be back and recommend to anyone considering!