97% (4.4K) • 1,226 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Mount Vernon
Shady Owl Ranch
1. Shady Owl Ranch
99%
(176)
2.8mi from Mount Vernon · 2 sites
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.
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Toilets
Showers
The Farm On Kenyon Road
2. The Farm On Kenyon Road
90%
(10)
4mi from Mount Vernon · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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Campfires
Liberty Highland Farm
3. Liberty Highland Farm
100%
(163)
6mi from Mount Vernon · 4 sites
Liberty Highland 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 picnic tables, 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 tours and educational talks , or if you fancy just some peace and quiet , it's easy to disappear here at Liberty Highland Farm. It's bring your own Camping gear, 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.
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Toilets
Malabar Farm State Park
4. Malabar Farm State Park
100%
(2)
State park 18mi from Mount Vernon · 15 sites
Pulitzer-Prize winning author Louis Bromfield found refuge at Malabar Farm State Park, and we have a feeling you will, too. Get in on that good ol' pastoral charm where beef cattle and house chickens roam the pastures. Besides the enjoyable hiking trails and fishing opportunities, we reckon you'll want to grub down at Malabar Farm Restaurant & Market. Tuck into some down-home specialities in the stagecoach-inspired inn built in the 1800's, or buy some fresh produce at the market anytime between Memorial Day and October. With a guided tour of the 32-room "Big House" and educational tours of their expansive gardens, you don't want to fall off the wagon when it comes to visiting this place.
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Mohican State Park
5. Mohican State Park
91%
(33)
State park 19mi from Mount Vernon · 25 sites
Pitch a tent or reserve a cozy cabin at this family-friendly state park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The McIntosh Pines
6. The McIntosh Pines
100%
(111)
12mi from Mount Vernon · 1 site · Tent, RV
Calm, relaxing, private site shaded by pine, maple, and walnut trees overlooking Lake Fork Licking River. Completely isolated spot - we host only one camper at a time. Hike trails through the woods and fields, venture down to the creek, and enjoy this 23-acre bubble of nature and wildlife in central Ohio.
McIntosh Pines was nominated for Ohio's Best Hipcamp to visit in 2022!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Hidden Hill Farm
7. Hidden Hill Farm
100%
(50)
12mi from Mount Vernon · 4 sites
4/ All-Wheel Drive Vehicle required to access sites. You also must either bring or rent a camp toilet (available as an add-on). Campsites situated on an 100+ acre estate. The farm is characterized by gently rolling fields and woodlands. Walking trails lead you beneath a multitude of well-developed tree species. Fall is a beautiful time of year to take pack a picnic and take a walk in the woods. Deer, turkey, rabbit, squirrel, song birds, raptors and waterfowl are common sights on the farm, along with an elusive bobcat and mink.
Current campsites are nestled along the tree line of a picturesque field, and will be next to the creek. Each site has its own fire ring and table.
There are many things to see and do within a 20-30 minute drive from your campsite, including Mohican State Forest, State Park and Adventure park, Malabar Farm, Tree Frog Canopy Tours and Ohio Amish country.
Learn more about this land:
This is an exclusive camping experience. We currently allow no more than four filled camp sites
at a time on the property. This way we can better ensure that your stay will be quiet, relaxing and completely enjoyable. All campers at sites 1-3 must be over the age of 18. Site 4 allows children and pets. This is to ensure a quiet and relaxing experience for all campers. 4-Wheel/ All-Wheel Drive vehicles only, please.
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The Lake at the Flying J Farm
8. The Lake at the Flying J Farm
98%
(1394)
13mi from Mount Vernon · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. 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.
Wild Life. There is an abundance of wildlife to be observed on the farm. Deer can be seen at dusk, raccoons can be seen going through your camp food at night (if you put it in your car), turkeys, hawks, vultures, rabbits, coyotes (heard screaming at night), frogs (especially heard at night), fish (jumping), and many song birds (my favorite, the bobolink, May and June only, nesting in the pastures).
Trash. This sustainable farm has no garbage hauling, please carry away your trash.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Poplar Place 7 springs
9. Poplar Place 7 springs
99%
(46)
14mi from Mount Vernon · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful rustic 4 acres 2 small ponds in a valley hills surrounding. Trees for shade. Site equipped with fire pit and picnic table. Pond allows for swimming, kayaks provided, catch and release fishing if experienced. Spring water on premises. Portapot provided. Generally quiet exception fireworks can be heard on holidays
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mt. Gilead State Park
10. Mt. Gilead State Park
State park 20mi from Mount Vernon · 22 sites
Listen for the chirp of native songbirds at Mt. Gilead State Park, where leafy canopies and forest floors covered with wildflowers may trick you into thinking you're Snow White. This charming 181-acre park is small, but all the more welcoming for it. Lap your rowboat around the 32-acre lake, then cast a line for some delicious bass or bluegill. Seven bridle trails cater to you and your horse's needs in mind, and a surprising number of sport courts will definitely keep you in shape. With a smile and a song, we have a feeling these park grounds will feel simply magical.
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Campfires
Alum Creek State Park
11. Alum Creek State Park
96%
(14)
State park 28mi from Mount Vernon · 25 sites
Hikers, horses, and dogs are all welcome at Ohio’s largest inland beach.
Pets
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Campfires
Delaware State Park
12. Delaware State Park
86%
(13)
State park 30mi from Mount Vernon · 24 sites
Frolic in the 1,300-acre reservoir in Delaware State Park, where waterfront activities galore will keep you smiling from ear to ear. Enjoy the beech-maple forest and colorful meadows, where white-tailed deer and woodchucks will make an appearance if you're lucky to witness it. Hunters can catch game with traps or bow and arrow in designated parts of the park, where waterfowl is the animal of choice. Lay out a towel on the sandy 800-ft beach, or opt to enjoy the waters from your unlimited horsepower boat.A fully-equipped marina means running out of fuel or fishing supplies is simply not an option. Five trails set the backdrop for ample bird watching, where you can hike or bike to your destination of choice. If your crew is looking for a more extensive hunting and fishing experience, consider visiting the nearby Delaware Wildlife Area, which offers nearly 5,000 acres of game.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Dillon State Park
13. Dillon State Park
90%
(10)
State park 33mi from Mount Vernon · 25 sites
It won't be hard to lose yourself in Mother Nature's charm at Dillon State Park, where 2,285 acres of woodland beauty will keep you busy. Keep an eye out for wild turkey and ruffled grouse as you scale the rolling farmlands or explore one of four hiking trails. Horse-lovers will enjoy 15 miles of bridle trails for their use, and biking enthusiasts will find refuge in the 12 miles of trails situated around the park. Reunite that frolfing team from college brah, because 18 holes mean you'll have time to amp up your game. Whether you're interested in practicing your accuracy at the archery range, catching the biggest bluegill, or exploring the 1,500-acre lake on your oversized boat, a shortage of activities is the least of your challenges at this park.
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Campfires
The Brink L & L's Outdoor Haven
14. The Brink L & L's Outdoor Haven
93%
(15)
15mi from Mount Vernon · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enhance your well-being with a peaceful walk in the woods, followed by a visit to the enchanting Bridge of Dreams, mere minutes away. Experience serenity with a riverside fire along the Mohican River's banks. Discover a secluded camping haven, featuring picnic table, gravel parking, fire ring, firewood, river access, natural spring, and panoramic views. All sites have 50 & 30amp hook ups & with water hook ups.
There is a Porta-Jon on site
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Grins & Pickin's CampFarm
15. Grins & Pickin's CampFarm
99%
(615)
16mi from Mount Vernon · 44 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. Our family oriented outdoor recreation facility 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 fireflies. 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!
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The land.
16. The land.
97%
(97)
18mi from Mount Vernon · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
We've got plenty of paths going around the property if you'd like to walk around in a somewhat dense forest. Sometimes a blacksmith is working you may catch a show but there's metal, stone, and wood art to buy all the time. The spots you'll most likely be camping are well-maintained riverside spots or if you're up for a hike there are caves where you can camp in somewhat untouched wilderness besides some logging trails and old campsites from others.
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Bluebird Hollow
17. Bluebird Hollow
100%
(23)
20mi from Mount Vernon · 1 site
A picturesque riverside camping location with an 8ft deep swimming area and downstream pebble beach for sunning in the afternoon. Enchanting seasonal wetland filled with black willow trees to explore and a stone ridge that overlooks the a meadow and tree lined river.
Long gravel drive with a turnaround for parking and a small cabin that is undergoing renovations. A 400ft trail winds from the cabin to the river where visitors will find a roofed shelter with a picnic table, a 36" fire ring, a second steel solo stove, cooking tripod on the primary fire ring with a grill, and some basic utensils.
I stay at the cabin when I am doing work on the property but am a long distance from the campsite. If I will be there at any point during your stay, I will be sure to let you know!
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Toilets
The Pleasant Valley Farm
18. The Pleasant Valley Farm
99%
(854)
20mi from Mount Vernon · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pleasant Valley Farm was originally a working farm with a two-story farmhouse and traditional bank barn, built in the late 1800s. The massive timbers and joinery are constant reminders of the meticulous craftsmanship of the era. Jim and Kathy Grogg purchased Pleasant Valley Farm in 1994 and not only updated the house and barn, but also expanded the lake to its current 13 acres. The large 144-year-old, 2736-square-foot barn is now available for special occasions such as weddings, receptions, birthdays, and reunions.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ashcraft Hills
19. Ashcraft Hills
98%
(216)
21mi from Mount Vernon · 1 site
Private A-frame cabin on a quiet family farm with a full glass wall, reclaimed hardwood floors, and brand new drive-up access. Built for a true reset or a comfortable weekend away.
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Showers
McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping
20. McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping
100%
(608)
23mi from Mount Vernon · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
David
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Turkey Hollow Campground
What I was liked about staying at Turkey Hollow was the location. The campground entrance was off the beaten path which the gravel road leads you down a long and winding path to the camp sites. I stayed in one of the cabins which is quite rustic. Once you arrived it is quite nice and spacious with a loft above for additional sleeping space. But what I enjoyed seeing was a herd of cows across the way which kept me entertained. I would sit on the back balcony and sit and listen to nature. It is so peaceful and relaxing. I enjoyed it so much that I can say I will definitely return again.
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Kaitlyn
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Had a great time! The weather didn’t cooperate but we still had a good weekend. Early spring wasn’t ideal for swimming but the fishing was fun 🙂 spring wild flowers were starting to bloom and looked lovely.
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Azwan
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
Third visit, a different site.
Well kept campground.
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M
Mark
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Really cool spot by the river. Will visit again for sure.
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M
Myka
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping
Super sweet and helpful hosts, beautiful comfortable stay and clean, too!
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Will
3 weeks ago
Tent
Me and my girlfriend loved camping here! It was more scenic than most camp sites I’ve ever been to with a great sunset and eve sunrise view. The hosts were nice enough to bring fire wood out when it had started getting a bit darker out. Would very much recommend camping here and would definitely camp here again!
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marcus
3 weeks ago
Tent
place was everything we expected, probably better!! wagon was super helpful. already had wood at the campsite. loved how secluded we were. definitely will be back on a more dry and warmer weekend!!
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Elizabeth
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
My husband and I loved minivan camping at Benji's farm. His wife came out to greet us upon arrival and answered a few questions we had about where to set up. The property was very near to Kenyon College which we were visiting. The outhouse with flush toilet was certainly a plus!
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C
Carol
3 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
With pets
This is just a beautiful spot. Jim was friendly and helpful, and how lovely that he and his wife have opened their farm to share with others. You hear birds, little field critters (cicadas? peepers?), and it's a great dark sky spot even though pretty close to a major highway. I totally recommend!
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Brenda
3 weeks ago
16 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We loved the solitude, wildlife and lake. Wish we could have stayed longer ❤️
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Dawn
April 2026
Tent
With kids
We loved camping at Flying J Farm. We spent all day fishing on the lake and caught some beautiful Catfish! The kids loved the boat and the space to run and play! Being so close to the bathroom was a plus. The area was clean and so nice and quiet. The owner is friendly, and came to check on us each day. We loved seeing the cows on the way in and the fact that you drive so far back to get to the campsite, it didn't feel like you were even on a farm. We love this place and will be back soon!
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A
Amy
April 2026
Tent
We absolutely loved #6 lake side. We were right next to the huge pond and had the creek on the other side of us which was so soothing to hear at night time. There were no near by camping spots near us which was also great. We got to do some fishing and caught a lot of fish. We did some walking through the trails they had on their property which was beautiful. The sunrise and sunset there was breathtaking. We loved that they had kayaks for us to use. They had wood bundles for us to buy for our 1st night and the rest we just walked along a trail right behind our campsite and collected wood. The owners were very friendly. We definitely enjoyed our time and was very relaxing. We'd 100% recommend this campsite to anyone.
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S
Stefani
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Our stay at Sunset View was our first Hipcamp experience. The only downfall is that our next trips will have a lot to live up to! The views were great, it was quiet and we had tons of space to hang out and explore.
The compost outhouse and water spigot (best well-water I’ve ever had!) are a short walk away down a small hill.
Carol was an absolute pleasure and made the entire experience great. We’d love to come back for another stay on the farm!
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Paul
April 2026
Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping
Amazing place & wonderful host. They really do just leave you alone to do your thing and decompress. It's just a bonus that it's so close to Columbus.
The cabin was perfect, and the surrounding land is pristine. I would've loved a month here instead of a day.
I recorded my visit, you can find it at @AYearInOhio on YouTube, dated for April 12th 2026.
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Rebecca
April 2026
Tent
With kids
We've enjoyed Flying J several times and have tried various sites. This time, Site 9. With trees not fully leafed out yet (early April), some other sites were technically visible from our spot, but if trees were in full leaf I think the only one still noticeable would be "the Chapel"/Site 8, which was not occupied during our visit. We didn't have any disturbance from campers at other sites; I'd say the feeling at Site 9 is of privacy, but not isolation. Spring peepers were noisy, but we like them! We tent camped and put up a hammock. By the way Site 9 is not very close to the bathroom, so we brought our own "luggable loo" for convenient nighttime use (currently $22 at REI, plus pack of 6 waste bags, $18). Rain was forecast at times, so the farmer advised 4 wheel drive would be best. We brought our own lifejackets and made use of both one-seater kayaks as well as the rowboat; this is one of our favorite things about Flying J. At this visit, I was not able to really hike due to injury, so I loved that I could still catch a glimpse of the bent tree with the splintered arm (at the far side of the lake, when heading in direction of the cove?), just by riding past in the rowboat. I knew what to look for, and as mentioned the trees weren't in full leaf, so I don't know how easy this would be to spot for someone else. My family also hiked to the tree later that day. One of us did end up with a dog tick, so be attentive, but that's just normal outdoor life in Ohio.
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Kaydon
April 2026
Tent
With pets
It was an absolutely breathtaking property with tons of privacy on site #five. We enjoyed walking down some of the trails and having our dogs play fetch in the open area. Next time we would love to come back in the summer and enjoy the lake and see more of the property.
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A
Aaron
April 2026
Weekend Trip to McKee Farm - Treehouses and Camping
Had fun on the swings and time to chill by the creek. This would be great for a 4 person hangout or 5 with a sleeping pad and bag. We loved all the sustainably sourced details and the treats especially since we forgot to pack lunch. It's very easy to get to and Carol and Autumn were very accommodating and responsive
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J
Josie
April 2026
Tent
I loved Carol’s campsite. It was wonderful! They were kind and accommodating and very communicative. So grateful to have stayed at McKee Farm!
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Christina
April 2026
20 ft campervan
With pets
Beautiful pond but the rain never stopped when we stayed. The weather was not in our favor. Unfortunately our Ford Transit got stuck, that was scary with all the rain water and flood warnings but James helped us get out in the morning. Originally it was going to be a trip with just myself and husband but we had to add kids. The price went up. That was a huge bummer. We couldn't bring all of our family at that price. Just when we started to fish a lightning storm rolled back in. It would have been fun without the stuck tire & flood warnings. Love the area and beautiful place.
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Jacob
April 2026
Tent
The site is perfect for a family trip to get some fresh air and swimming time. The river is close and deep, the grassy areas are flat and don't have rocks so sleeping bags can be very comfy. There's a big firepit, and room to spread out.
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