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The best camping in Ohio

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With its vast agricultural plains hemmed in by mountains, lakes, and rivers, Ohio’s natural scenery covers all terrains. Beach breaks await along the sandy shores of Lake Erie to the north, while to the east, ancient caves and waterfalls are hidden away in the forested foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Outdoor activities take place through all four seasons, from hiking and canoeing to snowshoeing and ice fishing, and camping is possible year-round. Summer temperatures average 80°F, and this is prime time for campers, but the views are most spectacular in the fall, when the eastern hills are ablaze with colorful foliage.

96% (16.6K) 6,063 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ohio

Camping at Heritage Farms

1. Camping at Heritage Farms

97%
(2836)
Peninsula, OH · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
Heritage Farms, located in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, is a 5th-generation, family-owned Christmas tree farm founded in 1848. Camping began ten years ago. We offer six shelters and nine primitive tent sites. We are incredibly close to the various trails located across the Cuyahoga Valley. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK! 1.WE DO NOT ALLOW FIREWOOD to be brought onto Heritage Farms property due to the potential risk to our crops and according to State and Federal Regulations. Firewood bundles may be purchased when making your reservations or upon arrival at the farm. 2. No vehicles may be driven into the camping area at any time. 3. All vehicles must remain in the designated parking lots 4. Campers are responsible for carrying their gear to their campsites—we provide wheeled carts for your use. 5. Ohio Primitive Camping licensing does not allow wheeled camping on Heritage Farms property. 6. Due to Summit County Health regulations, we cannot provide water. Please bring your own drinking and washing water. Or you may purchase 1-gallon jugs of water when you reserve your site or upon arrival. Our restrooms are porta Johns. 7. Tent sites (labeled A-J) have space for up to 3 tents. Shelter sites (numbered 1-6) have room for up to 2 additional tents. All sites are limited to a maximum of 6 campers 8. Heritage Farms is a working Farm. Please be aware that tractors and other machinery are in use during daylight hours 9. Check-in time is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you’re arriving after 7:00 p.m., please let us know. Checkout time is 10:00 a.m. Please use the dumpster for all trash. Gray water stations are available for the disposal of used water. 10. Only campers registered to HipCamp are permitted to overnight on Heritage Farms property. We do not allow parties and underage or excessive use of alcohol at any time. 11. DOG POLICY: We welcome dogs who have received prior permission from the farm owners. A dog registration form including proof of rabies vaccination must be filled out upon arrival. Unvaccinated dogs are not permitted on the property. All dogs MUST always be on a leash and in the physical control of their owner(s). No pets may be left unattended at any time.
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The Lake at the Flying J Farm

2. The Lake at the Flying J Farm

98%
(1458)
Johnstown, OH · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Fruitdale Farm

3. Fruitdale Farm

99%
(1278)
Bainbridge, OH · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come stay at our little sustainable farmstead amid the beautiful rolling hills of southern Ohio! Our peaceful 20 acres has a good mix of woods, wild meadows and maintained cleared areas as well as a small pond, all of which can be explored via our nature trail. Enjoy the sounds of nature and an incredible night sky. FIREWOOD and seasonal farm goods are available for purchase at a self-serve stand (several payment options available). There is also a wonderful sauna on the property that can be reserved (go to sauna to reserve a time). Great hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, swimming, and disc-golfing opportunities just a few miles away at Paint Creek State Park and the Highland Nature Sanctuary. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. This area is home to an impressive network of ancient earthworks including the world famous Serpent Mound. Our accommodations range from primitive tent-camping to "glamping" in one of our tiny off-grid cabins. The sites are spaced out for privacy and each site offers a private picnic table and fire pit. There are two shared privies/outhouses which have basic composting toilets (not flushing). A grassy parking area is provided near the road, however, ALL SITES ARE WALK-IN (with the exception of site #1). ***Please take note that this is private property and the host lives on site. If you are looking for a place to be loud and party into the night, this is not the place for you. If you are looking to spend some quality time in nature, welcome. There are rules. *** The gazebo kitchen is NOT COMMUNAL as it is connected to the Fern Cabin (Fern cabin guests have exclusive access to the kitchen). The kitchen IS included for those who book "The Whole Darn Place".
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Lake Hope State Park

4. Lake Hope State Park

100%
(13)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
Leftovers of an abandoned mine give Lake Hope State Park its rustic charm, where a nearly 3,000-acre lake provides ample opportunity for outdoor fun in the sun. Seven hiking paths and eight biking trails mean you'll have multiple chances to discover the steep gorges that characterize this densely forested area. Hunt in the adjacent Zaleski State Forest or catch some crappie or bluegill in the expansive lake for some fresher than fresh dinner. If you're not in the mood for cooking your catch or devouring another can of baked beans, consider moseying over to Lake Hope Lodge, which will treat your palate to hickory smoked barbecue and smoked meats and sides by the pound. Cushy beaches, interpretive center exhibits, and a variety of ball courts will burn those calories off in no time.
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Maumee Bay State Park

5. Maumee Bay State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family
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Altenbrauch Farm

6. Altenbrauch Farm

98%
(541)
Mc Arthur, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located only 8 miles from Hocking Hills State Park, Altenbrauch Farm features 62 acres of open fields, small streams and wooded hills intersected by a lonely country road.  Aside from our house, there are no neighbors in sight.  Easily pitch your tent in an open field or trek through the hills and hollows to find your perfect campsite.As part of Ohio's famous Hocking Hills Region, Vinton County is home to the second largest state forest, in addition to multiple state parks and wildlife areas. You’ll encounter abandoned historical sites and relics dating back to the early 1800s, hidden away among the wooded hills of Ohio’s least populated county. If you're a lover of outdoor recreation, this is the place to be. Within about a half-hour drive, there are many opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, hunting and fishing, and birding.  Nearby parks and forests include Hocking Hills State Park, Hocking Hills State Forest, Lake Hope State Park, Zaleski State Forest, the Moonville Rail Trail, Lake Alma State Park, Tar Hollow State Forest, and more!Set up camp wherever you like!  There are 12 acres of open field space, surrounded by 50 acres of wooded hills and hollows with hiking trails and level spots to pitch tents. Vehicles can be driven to the field sites; we are still working on a road to access the hill sites by vehicle.  The fields have about a dozen "permanent" sites with stone or metal fire rings and log seating.  Portable fire rings are also available that can be moved anywhere.  Dead wood for campfires is free to gather, or split firewood is available to purchase for $5/bundle. A toilet and solar shower are located at the center of the property. An outdoor water spigot is also available. Guests are expected to follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. Any trash packed onto the property must be bagged and taken with you.
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The Turkey Hollow Campground

7. The Turkey Hollow Campground

92%
(717)
Millersburg, OH · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Turkey Hollow is nestled in the rolling hills of Holmes County Ohio. We are right on the edge of the largest Amish settlement in the nation. The primitive campground is in the corner of a small 40 acre farm owned by Matt Polcyn. He started the campground 13 years ago because of his love for nature and real camping. He enjoys traveling in many places in the States and the Caribbean islands and loves finding places off of the beaten path and not commercialized. Because of his interest and love for primitive camping he decided to open the campground in order to provide the same opportunity as a getaway primitive camping location that he tries to find when he travels. We now just added a shower in the trees, warm water rinse off area. (this is available between Memorial Day and until it get too cold again in the fall)
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Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

8. Bass and Buck Tent Adventures

100%
(250)
OH · 4 sites
With over 230 acres, a lake, trails, the Grand River, plenty of wildlife, and FREE firewood. Bass and Buck Adventures is the perfect place to get away. Once known as Parkman Gorge the valley was a hub for water powered industry in the early 1800's. The river and valley is home to a wide array of wildlife. Deer, turkey, eagles, hawks, owls, mink, river otters to name a few. The area also attracts many song birds including a wide variety of warblers. There is also an abundance of wild flowers. The valley is rich in Native American history. Many artifacts have been found on the property. My great grandfather talked about the last Native American to live in Parkman. He had a cabin on one of the bluffs along the river. In the 1820's there was a water powered sawmill, flaxseed mill, and forge on the river. The boy scouts used the valley for a camp in the 1920,s. My grandpa purchased the property in the 50's from Ohio Edison. Ohio Edison's plan to dam up the river for hydro power never materialized. The valley has been a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. Camping, hiking, fishing, hunting. Many of the items used for the camp sites have been reclaimed. The fire rings are old tractor rims and scrap steel. The tent platform is from reclaimed deck lumber. The firewood is excess cutoffs purchased from a local sawmill. For more information log onto our website. bassandbuckadventures.com
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River’s Edge at Lewis Farms

9. River’s Edge at Lewis Farms

100%
(11)
Bolivar, OH · 4 sites
Sites 1 & 2 (The Social Spots): Positioned directly beside each other, these sites are absolutely perfect for families or groups of friends who want to camp together and share the ultimate outdoor experience. Both sites feature heavy, mature shade to keep you cool all day long. Site 3 (The Quiet Transition): Offering a bit more privacy while still draped in deep, refreshing shade, Site 3 is ideal for campers who want a peaceful retreat just a short walk away from the action. Site 4 (The Ultimate Hideaway): As our most secluded site, Site 4 is a private haven for those looking to truly unplug. Unlike the heavy canopy of the other sites, Site 4 opens up to beautiful, sunny areas—perfect for basking in the morning sun or stargazing at night. Adventure Right at Your Tent Flap No matter which site you choose, you are steps away from the best outdoor recreation the region has to offer: Hit the Water: Bring your kayak, canoe, or inner tube! Dip your toes in right from our on-site small launch, or take a quick 0.3-mile stroll down the bank to the larger public launch for an effortless day on the river. Hit the Trail: Prefer solid ground? You are just 0.5 miles from the historic Towpath Trail trailhead. Lace up your hiking boots or hop on your bike to explore miles of scenic, winding pathways. Ready to pitch your tent? Book your slice of riverside paradise today, pack the sunscreen (or the shade canopy!), and get ready to fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the Tuscarawas River. Island is a short walk from ramp across river. Both adults and kids love exploring around it! *Sites are located in Flood Plain. Excessive weather could cause cancellation or relocating *Porta-Potty located approx 0.2 miles from sites. Requires a short walk *River Access on site (at own risk) or Launch 0.2 miles from sites. *Towpath Trail access located 0.5 miles from sites. *Parking on Road by Small path leading to campsites. Hipcamp Parking sign located at entrance *Alternate route into campsites 0.1 miles away may be used during heavy rains. *Campsite access from parking requires 75 feet walk or 600 feet walk from alternate entrance. *All sites contain Picnic Table, Firepit and Grill Grate hung on campsite post (please return to post before leaving) *This is camping, mosquitos can be bad. We try to maintain them but bug spray is recommended *Firewood located on site for $5.00 a bundle, payable at paybox or Venmo (scan tag on box)
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Salt Fork State Park

10. Salt Fork State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Ohio · 23 sites
Hike, golf, or get on the water at Ohio’s largest state park.
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Shawnee State Park OH

11. Shawnee State Park OH

100%
(5)
State park in Ohio · 24 sites
Nestled in the greater Shawnee State Forest, Shawnee State Park brings 1,095 acres of scenic Appalachian foothills. Considered one of the most photogenic areas in the state, we have a feeling you'll enjoy the lush valleys and wooded hills. Lace up those old boots and hike one of six trails, or bring your trusty steed for a couple beautiful bridle trails. Nature geeks will love to sneak a peek at the Nature Center, which is chock full of educational information about the surrounding area. With boating, fishing, sport courts, and even an 18-hole golf course, it would almost be a challenge not to stay active in the Little Smokies.
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South Bass Island State Park

12. South Bass Island State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Ohio · 24 sites
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.
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Van Buren State Park

13. Van Buren State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Ohio · 25 sites
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.
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Riverside Adventures

14. Riverside Adventures

97%
(244)
Morrow, OH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Join us at Riverside Adventures for your next getaway. We are located on a 67 acre farm located on the Little Miami River in the heart of Warren County Ohio, also known as "Ohio's playground". We have 4 camp sites total, all with with river front access. Each site has its own stone patio, fire ring, and picnic table, with other amenities also available. We welcome both small and large groups and can help you plan events here such as family reunions, bachelor(ette) parties, and corporate retreats. With one canoe livery within two miles of us (Little Miami Canoe), you can drop your canoe or kayak in upstream and make your campsite a pit stop before getting picked up downstream by their shuttles. You can also rent a tube from us and go up and down our property or hang out on your tube anchored by the beach. We can also shuttle you upstream on Saturdays and Sundays. You can hike on our property to get scenic views of the Little Miami River Valley or spend time exploring Halls Creek (just down the street), the Fort Ancient Mounds, and others. We know other special local spots we can let you in on, too. We are just a 1/2 mile from the Little Miami Bike Trail and close to Caesar's Creek, Cowan Lake, YMCA's Camp Kearn, and Camp Joy. Plain Folk Music Cafe, Fresh to Morrow, Valley Vineyards, and Little River Cafe, are also short drives if you want to grab a bite to eat and vibe on some cool, local hangouts. We're just a 15-minute drive from King's Island and an hour or less drive from Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus. It's great out here, ya'll--join us! We look forward to helping you with your next outdoor adventure!
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Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

15. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%
(370)
Fostoria, OH · 7 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 or as they rest at the barn. There are chickens and Brindle the barn kitty. We have the perfect place for dogs as well. We have five dogs of our own that get along great with others and our fenced pond keeps them safe. We allow kayaking on the pond when our dogs are inside. But fishing has been restricted due to unfortunate incidents. Hiking trails, crisscross the properties on both sides of the road. We’ve added 8 acres across the creek to the south of the barn bringing our total to 16 acres for you to wander freely. The trails are being developed and some are dead ends. Be cautious to stay on the trails as there are many nasty plants off of the trails. No open toed shoes should be worn, as poison ivy as present pretty much everywhere. A guided tour is available when available. We also provide Firewood and kayaks and animal interactions for fees. ESV is help us pay for our animal upkeep, including food, Vet bills, and Ferrier fees. We appreciate all donations made to that cause. Our future development will include Rusty‘s Barn. Which will be a music/wedding venue. That would be located in the upstairs of the barn.
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Riverside Camping

16. Riverside Camping

96%
(537)
Port Clinton, OH · 4 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!
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Todd’s Fork Adventures

17. Todd’s Fork Adventures

100%
(366)
Morrow, OH · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
This property was the original location of Todd’s Fork Bluegrass Festivals back in the 70’s and is directly on Todd’s Fork with 1/2 mile of River frontage. We reside within the Village of Morrow, walking distance to restaurants and stores. The little Miami Bike Trail is approximately 1/4 mile from our entrance. This property is tucked away and you wouldn’t even know you’re close to town once you’re on site. Valley Vineyards is right down the road to enjoy a bottle of wine and cook your own steak dinner nights. Take a trip to visit Fort Ancient with a day hike. A Native American earthworks complex, the largest hilltop enclosure in the world and soon to be a World Heritage site! Enjoy some canoeing on the Little Miami River a State and National scenic river which is within walking distance. We have kayaks on location for the kids to play in the creek and creeks to hike with numerous fossils deposits. Southwestern Ohio is famous for its Ordovician fossil deposits. Kings Island is approximately 20 minute drive and the Ohio renaissance Festival is near. Caesars creek state park in Cowan lake state park is within a short drive. Smallmouth Bass fishing is awesome on Todd’s Fork and we have plenty of area to Wade fish.
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Towpath Trail Peace Park

18. Towpath Trail Peace Park

93%
(225)
Bolivar, OH · 4 sites
Primitive tent camping on the Greenville Peace Treaty Line, Buckeye Trail, Ohio-Erie Canal Towpath Trail, Scenic Byway, Tuscarawas River Water Trail, Great American Rail Trail, and American Discovery Trail! Located on the historic Ohio-Erie Canal between the village of Bolivar Ballparks and the McDonnell trailheads on the towpath trail ten miles south of Canton, Ohio, and 1.5 miles west of I-77 exit 93 on Scenic Byway Rt 212 in beautiful Tuscarawas County, Ohio. The Peace Park is designed for bikers, hikers, dog walkers, and anyone traveling through to book a campsite, even if no one is available to meet and greet. Campers, once booked, may go to an available campsite and set up camp. Dog-friendly, handicapped-accessible Porta-Jon with hand sanitizer, shared electricity for charging phones, pristine aquifer water, picnic tables, fire pits, fire-side benches, birds, butterflies, lightning bugs, wild turkeys, deer, and other wildlife are often seen. Please note: We're located on a section of the Ohio-Erie Canal Scenic Byway, the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad, and at a 90-degree corner with a slight slope that causes trucks to downshift and brake. If you're a light sleeper, we recommend bringing earplugs! We now offer disposable, individually packaged earplugs in our Porta-Jon.
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Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

19. Bracy Gold Bison Ranch

98%
(75)
Swanton, OH · 9 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. Only catch and release fishing allowed. 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 Erin at five six seven-686-6nine62 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.
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Woody Acres

20. Woody Acres

99%
(132)
New Plymouth, OH · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Woody is our peaceful hilltop home nestled amongst the scenic hills in southeast Ohio between Hocking Hills State Park and Zaleski State Forest. Enjoy staying on a hilltop meadow filled with a mix of wildflowers and song birds. The meadow is surrounded by a tall mixed hardwood forest where campers are free to walk the mowed path through the woods. Come nightfall, you will be graced with some of the darkest skies in the state of Ohio. On a clear moonless night, the milky way galaxy comes into view and shooting stars are not an uncommon site. If you're lucky, our friendly black cat will grace you with his presence, he's a legend and likes to snuggle:) We offer a variety of accommodations depending on the type of adventure you are seeking. Choose between staying in the off grid school bus tiny home, the 20 foot "glamper" with outdoor kitchen, the Hickory Hut which offers more "creature comforts" or simply pitch a tent or park a smaller camper in the open meadow campsite for a night of stargazing. Woody is located within 25 minutes of many of the areas attractions: 15 minutes to Ash Cave 20 minutes to Cedar Falls 25 minutes to Old Man's Cave 20 minutes to Lake Hope 10 minutes to McArthur 25 minutes to Logan Here at Woody we honor our place in the natural world and are humbled by the beauty that surrounds us. We see ourselves as a part of nature and work towards having a deeper connection with the earth and our place in it by applying caretaker attitude and careful technological use and observation. Our mission is to leave bounty in our wake. If you would like to dive deeper into your own connection with nature, consider going on a nature walk with Austin during your stay. Check it out in the add-ons. We would love for you to come stay with us and be a part of a healing landscape where you can disconnect from your day to day, reconnect with nature and experience the Woody Acres magic. Hope to see you soon! Austin and Kate
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Ohio camping guide

Where to go

Great Lakes Plains

Sandy beaches and island getaways dot the 312-mile shore of Lake Erie, stretching from Toledo through Cleveland to Conneaut. East Harbor State Park is a highlight of the Lake Erie Birding Trail, and birders flock to nearby Maumee Bay State Park during the spring warbler migration. The most scenic spots for summer camping are on the islands, and regular ferries set out for the Bass Islands and Kelleys Island state parks.

Till Plains

Cornfields and farmlands blanket Ohio’s central region, but there are also more than a dozen state parks within a short drive of Columbus. The limestone gorges of John Bryan State Park harbor some of the region’s best hiking trails, while to the north, the Mohican River is one of Ohio’s top spots for canoeing. For beaches, boating, and lakeside campgrounds, Indian Lake State Park and Alum Creek State Park are both popular choices.

Appalachian Plateau

East of the Till Plains, the patchwork farmlands of Amish Country lead the way to the state’s only national park, Cuyahoga Valley. This is where Ohio’s adventurous spirit comes into its own—take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Railroad, go ziplining or caving in the Hocking Hills State Park, or enjoy backcountry camping in the heart of the Wayne National Forest.

Bluegrass Region

Rambling woodlands and steep cliffs line the banks of the Ohio River in the state’s southernmost region. Just outside Cincinnati, East Fork State Park has one of the largest state campgrounds in Ohio, while the rugged landscapes of the Shawnee State Park are just a 2-hour drive from the city. For hikers, the ultimate challenge is the North Country National Scenic Trail, which cuts through southern Ohio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Ohio is an excellent destination for camping, offering a diverse range of landscapes and outdoor activities. The state is home to numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds that cater to both tent and RV campers. Some popular camping spots in Ohio include Hocking Hills State Park, Mohican State Park, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You can also find unique camping experiences like backwoods camping and tent camping in the woods on Hipcamp.

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Ohio. Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds and camping areas on public lands such as state parks, state forests, and wildlife areas. Additionally, private campgrounds and Hipcamp properties are available for camping. It is important to follow the rules and regulations of the area where you plan to camp and to obtain any necessary permits or permissions.

For a list of camping options in Ohio, you can visit Hipcamp or explore specific areas like Cleveland and Dayton.

While East Harbor State Park campground is a large campground in Ohio, the largest campground in the state is actually Indian Lake State Park Campground, which has over 800 sites. East Harbor State Park campground is located on the shores of Lake Erie and offers more than 500 campsites, including electric and non-electric sites for tents and RVs. The park provides various amenities, such as restrooms, showers, a camp store, a beach, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

In Ohio, whether you need a permit to camp depends on the type of camping and the location. For most state parks and campgrounds, you do not need a specific permit; however, you will need to make a reservation and pay any associated fees. Reservations can be made through the Ohio State Parks Reservation System or by contacting the park directly. For primitive or dispersed camping in Ohio's state forests, you may need a permit depending on the location and duration of your stay. It's essential to check with the specific state forest or location before embarking on your trip. For private camping options, you can explore and book camping sites through websites like Hipcamp, which provides information on various Ohio camping locations, including tent camping, tent in the woods, and primitive camping. Always check the specific rules and regulations of the location you plan to camp in to ensure you have the required permits or reservations.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field