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Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Hosted by Jay · Fostoria, Ohio
10 sites · RV, Tent · 18 acres
99%
·
238 reviews
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Best Hipcamps in Ohio
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Best in Ohio: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2023.
Jay is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
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. We allow kayaking in the pond when our dogs are inside. But fishing has been restricted due to unfortunate incidents.

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8 sites
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Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat

99%
(66)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Campsites are all private and secluded with fire rings. Sites 1 through 3 are on the South Branch of the Portage river. Sites 3 through 5 are on the creek and site 6 is near Rusty's pasture. The river sites are shady while the rest of the sites are sunny. No power or water except site 5, which could have electricity. The parking is in front of the garage and we have a golf cart to transport camping supplies and guests to the camp sites. Trails run along a brook that connects to a river with wildlife everywhere. Peace and quiet abounds as there are no airports, highways or trains nearby and the road has little traffic.Rusty, the steer and his friends are waiting for your visit. Including Lexi and Buckeye the mini horses and Poly, the barn kitty with his six toes on each paw are a sight to see. Turk, our turkey and his chicken friends wander all over the property. Kayak or paddleboat on the pond. Swimming and floating on the pond is therapeutic and fun.  Play some cornhole or croquet in front of the barn. . Peaceful and quiet, Rusty's Retreat will provide the serene overnight or vacation you've always dreamed of.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
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Instant book

Site 3 - Rusty's Retreat

100%
(32)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Campsites are all private and secluded with fire rings. Sites 1 through 3 are on the South Branch of the Portage river. Sites 3 through 5 are on the creek and site 6 is near Rusty's pasture. The river sites are shady while the rest of the sites are sunny. No power or water except site 5, which could have electricity. The parking is in front of the garage and we have a golf cart to transport camping supplies and guests to the camp sites. Trails run along a brook that connects to a river with wildlife everywhere. Peace and quiet abounds as there are no airports, highways or trains nearby and the road has little traffic.Rusty, the steer and his friends are waiting for your visit. Including Lexi and Buckeye the mini horses and Poly, the barn kitty with his six toes on each paw are a sight to see. Turk, our turkey and his chicken friends wander all over the property. Kayak or paddleboat on the pond. Swimming and floating on the pond is therapeutic and fun.  Play some cornhole or croquet in front of the barn. . Peaceful and quiet, Rusty's Retreat will provide the serene overnight or vacation you've always dreamed of.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
  • Picture of the site
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  • Picture of the site
Instant book

Site 2 - Rusty's Retreat

100%
(26)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Campsites are all private and secluded with fire rings. Sites 1 through 3 are on the South Branch of the Portage river. Sites 3 through 5 are on the creek and site 6 is near Rusty's pasture. The river sites are shady while the rest of the sites are sunny. No power or water except site 5, which could have electricity. The parking is in front of the garage and we have a golf cart to transport camping supplies and guests to the camp sites. Trails run along a brook that connects to a river with wildlife everywhere. Peace and quiet abounds as there are no airports, highways or trains nearby and the road has little traffic.Rusty, the steer and his friends are waiting for your visit. Including Lexi and Buckeye the mini horses and Poly, the barn kitty with his six toes on each paw are a sight to see. Turk, our turkey and his chicken friends wander all over the property. Kayak or paddleboat on the pond. Swimming and floating on the pond is therapeutic and fun.  Play some cornhole or croquet in front of the barn. . Peaceful and quiet, Rusty's Retreat will provide the serene overnight or vacation you've always dreamed of.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
  • Picture of the site
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  • Picture of the site
Instant book

Site 5 - Rusty's Retreat

96%
(13)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Campsites are all private and secluded with fire rings. Sites 1 through 3 are on the South Branch of the Portage river. Sites 3 through 5 are on the creek and site 6 is near Rusty's pasture. The river sites are shady while the rest of the sites are sunny. No power or water except site 5, which could have electricity. The parking is in front of the garage and we have a golf cart to transport camping supplies and guests to the camp sites. Trails run along a brook that connects to a river with wildlife everywhere. Peace and quiet abounds as there are no airports, highways or trains nearby and the road has little traffic.Rusty, the steer and his friends are waiting for your visit. Including Lexi and Buckeye the mini horses and Poly, the barn kitty with his six toes on each paw are a sight to see. Turk, our turkey and his chicken friends wander all over the property. Kayak or paddleboat on the pond. Swimming and floating on the pond is therapeutic and fun.  Play some cornhole or croquet in front of the barn. . Peaceful and quiet, Rusty's Retreat will provide the serene overnight or vacation you've always dreamed of.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
  • Picture of the site
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  • Picture of the site
Instant book

Site 4 - Rusty's Retreat

100%
(8)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Campsites are all private and secluded with fire rings. Sites 1 through 3 are on the South Branch of the Portage river. Sites 3 through 5 are on the creek and site 6 is near Rusty's pasture. The river sites are shady while the rest of the sites are sunny. No power or water except site 5, which could have electricity. The parking is in front of the garage and we have a golf cart to transport camping supplies and guests to the camp sites. Trails run along a brook that connects to a river with wildlife everywhere. Peace and quiet abounds as there are no airports, highways or trains nearby and the road has little traffic.Rusty, the steer and his friends are waiting for your visit. Including Lexi and Buckeye the mini horses and Poly, the barn kitty with his six toes on each paw are a sight to see. Turk, our turkey and his chicken friends wander all over the property. Kayak or paddleboat on the pond. Swimming and floating on the pond is therapeutic and fun.  Play some cornhole or croquet in front of the barn. . Peaceful and quiet, Rusty's Retreat will provide the serene overnight or vacation you've always dreamed of.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
Instant book

Site 6 - Rusty's Retreat

100%
(7)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Campsites are all private and secluded with fire rings. Sites 1 through 3 are on the South Branch of the Portage river. Sites 3 through 5 are on the creek and site 6 is near Rusty's pasture. The river sites are shady while the rest of the sites are sunny. No power or water except site 5, which could have electricity. The parking is in front of the garage and we have a golf cart to transport camping supplies and guests to the camp sites. Trails run along a brook that connects to a river with wildlife everywhere. Peace and quiet abounds as there are no airports, highways or trains nearby and the road has little traffic.Rusty, the steer and his friends are waiting for your visit. Including Lexi and Buckeye the mini horses and Poly, the barn kitty with his six toes on each paw are a sight to see. Turk, our turkey and his chicken friends wander all over the property. Kayak or paddleboat on the pond. Swimming and floating on the pond is therapeutic and fun.  Play some cornhole or croquet in front of the barn. . Peaceful and quiet, Rusty's Retreat will provide the serene overnight or vacation you've always dreamed of.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
  • Picture of the site
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  • Picture of the site
Instant book

Site 7 Rusty's Retreat

100%
(4)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Rusty's Tent Site # 7 is located near Rusty''s pasture. Rusty and his mini horse friends, Lexi and Buckeye will be grazing nearby for your ambiance and animal therapy.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
  • Picture of the site
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Instant book

Site 8 Rusty's Retreat

Tent site · Sleeps 4
Site 8 is our newest site by request. It is the only site on the pond side of the road. It faces east and allows for beautiful sunrises over a lovely meadow. Shaded in the afternoon, this site also has easy access to the pond. Peaceful, remote and private... site 8 will be your choice.
Short walk to site
No campfires
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers

RV/tent sites

2 sites
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Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside

98%
(56)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 25 ft
The RV sites are next to the creek and have 110 electric. 30 amp for site #1. Enjoy the sound of the water as it passes over the rocks and the whinny of a mini horse or the low moo from Rusty. The barn is full of farm animals to visit. There is a pond for limited access. . Hike the trails to the river and back and around the pond side of the road. There is a nice grassy area in front of the barn for games like volleyball or cornhole. There's always something to do.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Electrical hookup
No water hookup
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Rusty's RV Retreat Site 2 creekside

97%
(32)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 25 ft
The RV sites are next to the creek and have 110 electric. 20 amp for site # 2. Enjoy the sound of the water as it passes over the rocks and the Winnie of a mini horse or the low moo from Rusty. The barn is full of farm animals to visit. There is a pond across the road for limited access. Hike the trails to the river and back and around the pond side of the road. There is a nice grassy area in front of the barn for games like volleyball or cornhole. There's always something to do.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Electrical hookup
No water hookup

Reviews

99% Recommend359 ratings · 238 reviews
Recommends
· July 2026
22 ft rooftop tent ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
We can’t say enough about our camp hosts, Jay and Heather. They were so welcoming and hospitable. They were very helpful to all our needs, and provided a wealth of information regarding the history of their property, and the surrounding area. If you'd like, they're more than happy to take you on a golf-cart tour of the property. Rusty the cow was adorable, and so were his two little sidekick’s the miniature horses. We planned our camping trip around the Union Pacific's Big Boy locomotive, which was on display in Fostoria for the day. Unfortunately, we succumbed to the great crowds, poor planning, and early closure of the train display—like thousands of other rail fans—and were turned away without seeing it... after waiting three hours in traffic! Jay, our host—who did get in to see Big Boy—felt sorry for us, and gave us his souvenir train-whistle and some post cards from the event, to lift our spirits. The next morning, Jay endeavored to let us know which crossings the train would be heading out on. Thanks to him, we were finally able to see the train! To sum it up, Jay and Heather are a reflection of the kind, outgoing and thoughtful, people you'll meet in-and-around Fostoria—and we met many. All in all, we had a very pleasant stay and plan to return. Thanks Jay & Heather!
A
Allen L.
1 month on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent · With kids ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
Great stay at Jays place. Quiet and calm area, and a fantastic host who was more than happy to show the property and chat.
Avatar
Lizzie B.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2026
Rusty's is the best!
25 ft travel trailer · With kids ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
Rusty's was the best. Jay greeted us and gave us a tour upon arrival. We had a great spot right along the creek. Our kids loved playing in it. The animals were sweet, things were quiet, and everything was as promised. Jay was friendly and took me and our kids on a bonus tour. We will be back!
Avatar
Vince S.
4 reviews
Recommends
· July 2026
A perfect getaway retreat
Tent · With pets ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
My wife, my dog, and I had a wonderful Fourth of July weekend at Rusty’s Retreat. The campsite was private, peaceful, and situated right along the creek. We enjoyed fishing, cooling off in the creek, and swimming in the pond. The site was also well shaded, which made a huge difference during the summer heat. Jay was an exceptional host—friendly, accommodating, and always quick to respond to any questions through the app. The firewood he provided was plentiful and well seasoned, making for perfect evening campfires. And then there’s Rusty! Seeing such a massive steer up close was a treat, but what surprised us most was how gentle and docile he was. Our dog, Gideon, developed quite the crush on Rusty and was constantly trying to sneak off to visit his new best friend. We had an amazing stay and would absolutely come back again. Highly recommend Rusty’s Retreat!
S
Stephen W.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent · With pets ·
Site 5 - Rusty's Retreat
Jay was very welcoming! He even went out of his way to help set our tent up due to missing parts. We LOVE rusty!
G
Grace D.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
My dog and I tent camped it was so beautiful and quiet. Definitely will be going back!
J
Justina P.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
Ohio work trip
25 ft travel trailer ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
Nice old farm, mowed trails make a nice wooded walking area.
B
Bub T.
1 month on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
The Perfect Spot!
Tent · With pets ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
Cant say enough good things about the host, location and site. These spots are well spaced adjacent to the creek and about as private as you can get. I was fortunate to receive my own "firework shows" every night when the lightening bugs came out to mate. The host was super responsive and friendly without being intrusive. His "bundle" of firewood was twice as big as expected, and a great value. Overall I would rate Rusty's Retreat as an 11 out of 10, it was that good.
Avatar
Kyle L.
8 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Slice of heaven
Tent ·
Site 3 - Rusty's Retreat
Absolutely a hidden slice of heaven here. Jay’s property is a dream and their hospitality is unmatched. Enjoy some trails, relax in the peace of the woods or take a dip in the pond or river.
K
Keli L.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
10 ft campervan ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 2 creekside
Beautiful Property and Super Quiet. I ended up staying on site 1. My grand caravan fit perfectly in the space and I was able to have the back opened up to the river. It was extremely relaxing to be able to listen to the sound of the water and the birds. Loved visiting Rusty, Little Bits and Lexi. Will definitely visit again.
Avatar
April L.
10 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
16 ft car · With kids ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 2 creekside
We had a great time camping at Rusty's! Jay was incredibly friendly and helpful (The King burrito at Little Mexico was great). The kids enjoyed the fishing--great bass fishing here, too! When we arrived, Jay suggested a different site and we are so incredibly glad he did. The sound of the creek at night and the birds in the morning really made it feel special, and the shade kept the campsite cool, even in the middle of the day. Take advantage of the firewood here, too. It's a great deal for how much you get!
A
Andrew B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent · With kids ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
Beautiful spot! Private and awesome host. Already booked another stay!
J
Joshua A.
4 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Site 1 - Get here now!!!
Tent ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
Man, what a beautiful place this was. We stayed on site 1 and as soon as we pulled up Jay was waiting for us in the golf cart. He lead us to our site and after chatting for a few he gave my girlfriend, me, and our pup a ride around the entire place. He was very kind to us and our slobbery, nervous pooch. She had never been in a golf cart and she found comfort in Jays lap. Nova says thank you, Jay! Jay, and Rusty’s retreat, have such a beautiful story that is absolutely worth hearing. Jay was very kind and sweet to us and you could tell he just wanted us to enjoy his land and our time there. We were lucky enough to meet and chat with Jays lovely lady too and both were a blast to talk to. The animals were super cute, the river was amazing. The dog and I hiked it 3 or 4 times. Our spot was secluded, sunny, and at the rivers edge which was awesome. It was clean and kept up very nice when we arrived. The fire pit was ready and Jay was able to bring us some firewood and some fresh eggs!! They were amazing. I recommend this cute getaway for families of all shapes and sizes. Jay and the spaces are incredibly accommodating, relaxing, and far enough away from the surrounding properties to get away from the city sound and grind. We came home completely reset. We will make sure to visit again and see all the different camp sites. Highly recommend the B&B too. We didn’t stay there but he showed us and it was stunning. Thank you Jay for giving us a great experience! See you soon!
S
Sean H.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent · With kids ·
Site 2 - Rusty's Retreat
Absolutely beautiful place to stay for a night or 2!!!
J
Joshua A.
4 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Great campsite
Tent ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
Very cool campsite. Privacy and a nice flowing stream to soothe you with a gentle sound. Enjoyed our stay there and most appreciative of our host Jay and his communication before and during our stay. Very nice place to relax and chill out Thank you, Eric B -Central Florida
Avatar
Eric B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
Quick feedback when booking. Sites nice. Cleared trails around area. Animals grazing in pasture.
P
Paul W.
4 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent ·
Site 2 - Rusty's Retreat
Jay and Heather were both so friendly. The farm was fun and beautiful. The site was amazing. The sound of the running water was the perfect noise to fall asleep to.
K
Kim C.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent · With kids ·
Site 3 - Rusty's Retreat
This was our first HipCamp and it gave us just what we were looking for! We were tired of all of the campgrounds and state parks with tiny sites jammed together, loud neighbors, parties, football tailgate parties, etc. Rusty's Retreat allowed us to enjoy the best part of camping - nature! We appreciated the peace and quiet site 3 offered us, although it's a bit of a hike to your vehicle and the port-o-john. Jay and his wife were very gracious and you can tell how proud they are of their property and are very generous to share it. If we could suggest one thing it would be an outdoor sink near the barn to wash hands/faces/dishes and get access to water. We had a lovely time staying at RR and exploring the area including biking trails, Seneca Caverns, and we even made a trek to Lake Erie and Kelley's Island. Great memories and a fantastic home base at Rusty's!
A
Andrew S.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
This was our second stay with Jay at Rusty’s Retreat. Even though we arrived later than anticipated, Jay was incredibly gracious and met us with a kind and warm smile. Jay’s passion and care for the land is evident. Looking forward to our next stay!
E
Eden G.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2026
Tent · With pets ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
We pride ourselves in finding hidden gems, and this site did not disappoint. The owners were friendly and helpful. The site was secluded and right on the river. Our family had a great time and would definitely come back.
J
Jesse L.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2026
Site 2 - Rusty's Retreat
We had such an amazing stay here. The property is absolutely stunning — peaceful, private, and honestly looked like something out of a movie. Being able to camp right by the water while our dog played in the creek all night was perfect. The campsite itself was clean, spacious, and so relaxing. Jay was also absolutely incredible. He was so helpful, kind, and responsive the entire time, and you can really tell he cares about making sure guests have a great experience. We already can’t wait to come back!!
A
Abigail Y.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2026
Tent ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
Had a great time. Campsite was right by a stream. We wanted to get away and it was fantastic property to do so. Will return.
M
Michael S.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2026
19 ft campervan · With pets ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
super nice host, super nice spot, and Rusty rocks
C
Christian A.
22 reviews
Recommends
· April 2026
Bottomland Woods
20 ft campervan · With pets ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
Cool place! I enjoyed the animals and farm nearby but the bottomland woods is even better. There is a stream that passes by the campsite and a small river farther back. A lot of birds and small mammals. Ideal for camper-van or truck. Hookups offered, I did not use.
J
Jim K.
8 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Site 3
Tent · With pets ·
Site 3 - Rusty's Retreat
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 : )
N
Nina R.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Excellent Host and a Great Area!
Tent ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
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!
J
Jacob H.
5 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
30 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
Lovely quiet and serene camping place. Rustic for sure but pleasurable and friendly, helpful owner and helpers.
Avatar
Natalie W.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
Jay was incredibly friendly and took the time to show us the land and introduce us to his lovely animals.
E
Eden G.
2 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
17 ft Class C · With pets ·
Rusty's RV Retreat Site 1 creekside
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.
L
Lizz H.
6 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Best of 2025 for us.
Tent ·
Site 1 - Rusty's Retreat
Wonderful property, beautiful sunrise. Very peaceful and quiet. Jay was a remarkably gracious host.
J
Jack C.
4 reviews

Location

Fostoria, Wood County, Ohio, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Jay K.

Joined in April 2021
Response rate: 100%Response time: Within an hour

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