



This is a neat “primitive” campsite that is tucked into a natural wooded lot on 11 acres. It is located in Powell, Ohio- a northwest suburb of Columbus, Ohio. It would be ideal for campers seeking a close get away from Columbus or the suburbs, who would like to disconnect a bit and immerse themselves in nature. We've also had some people traveling through Columbus enjoy a
This is a neat “primitive” campsite that is tucked into a natural wooded lot on 11 acres. It is located in Powell, Ohio- a northwest suburb of Columbus, Ohio. It would be ideal for campers seeking a close get away from Columbus or the suburbs, who would like to disconnect a bit and immerse themselves in nature. We've also had some people traveling through Columbus enjoy a quick stay here.
This is the only site on the 11 acres, so you won't have any other campers to contend with. The site is quite secluded from about June through early October. In the fall, it should be noted that the trees will lose their leaves. The result is that you can hear some traffic on occasion. Also, you may notice the neighbor's houses when you first arrive. Most people are able to get past this quite easily- as once you settle in you tend to forget about those things and enjoy the surrounding 11 acres of nature.
The site is mostly Ohio woodlands. Part of it is elevated and part of it is in floodplain adjacent to the Scioto River- providing some interesting topography. There is a small waterfall and two small creeks; which are most often active in the spring and fall.
The O'Shaughnessy Reservoir/Scioto River is in walking distance. There you can boat, canoe, kayak and fish, but just plain swimming is not allowed. Note that the reservoir also has a formal boat “dock” just 2 miles down the road.
For those who may wish to “base camp”- there are numerous amenities offered in Powell and nearby Dublin and Delaware and there are several interesting parks and hiking trails which would be just a short drive away.
We understand the pricing on this site may be a bit higher than most- but this is primarily related to the fact that we offer free fire wood; so you do not have to worry about bringing your own or paying for bundles as you go.
- Check in: After 1PM
- Check out: Before 11AM
- Cancellation policy: Moderate
- On arrival: Go straight to camp
- Minimum nights: 2 nights
- Accepts bookings: 3 months out
- Response time: Within 12 hours
- Response rate: 100%
Activities
Offered on the Host's property or nearby.
Terrain
Natural features you'll find at Riverside Drive Retreat. in Ohio.
Forest
11 acres of Ohio woodland; essentially untouched.
River, stream, or creek
Two small creeks are present on the property, but only flow from October to June. The Scioto Reservoir is very close- yes walk...Read more
Suburban
The site is intended primarily to be “primitive”; and it is well secluded and private. It could also work as a sort of base cam...Read more
Waterfall
Waterfall is only active from about October to June and or after a lot of rainfall.
Driveway
Driveway access is good. Parking space is limited. Best for 1 vehicle. If 2 vehicles are being considered- please discuss with...Read more
Places to see near Riverside Drive Retreat.
17 Reviews
The campsite itself was well laid out and accommodating. Nice space, picnic table, fireside cooking supplies, firewood, back-up supplies, back-up tarp, rustic toilet accommodations, bottled water, fire ring with adjustable fire grate, and natural log fireside seating. The only deterants were: having a high traffic street 500 yards away from the site. (considerable amount of audible late evening traffic) and an unusual amount of flies. Overall, a nice campsite and enjoyable father-son trip!
This was a great place to camp, not to far from Columbus but still “in the wilderness”. John had all the essentials waiting for us at the campsite and I we had a peaceful, stress free weekend.
We reserved Riverside Drive Retreat to camp with our family of four for the first time. John responded to our reservation request quickly and explained the ins and outs of the location and amenities before we arrived. The campsite was roomy, even larger than we expected from the pictures! There was plenty of space to set up our tent and two hammocks. Firewood was included, and we enjoyed cooking our evening meals and snacks over the campfire. Thanks, John!
Beautiful and peaceful setting. Very surprised with the extras provided. Look forward to returning in the spring.
I visited the Riverside Drive Retreat for 2 nights for some time away from family without being too far away. This spot is a gem tucked away on the owner's property. A nice flat spot to set up a tent (mine was a large 8 person despite being alone), 2 options for hanging hammocks, a picnic table, a fire ring with cooking rack, a private toilet trail marked and equipped with supplies for use, firewood and a handy box full of things you may have forgotten like firestarters, lighters, bug spray and a lantern. 10-15 mins from groceries and Walmart if needed. Nice wooded area that felt very secluded and was the perfect get away for me. I will be back...and recommend to others!
Very nice camp site and easy to find! We had a blast with our paddle boards on the very near by Scioto reservoir. John was super helpful and quick to respond! We later requested the outdoor shower and was quick to accommodate.


Really enjoyed our stay. The site is lovely — roomy, private, and extremely well appointed (water, firewood, fire pit, cooking grate and utensils, etc — everything in great shape). Fishing spots on the (beautiful) river are just a short walk. And John was a top host, super nice and easy to communicate with. The only minor downside is that it is somewhat close to road so you can notice traffic in the quiet hours when the cars are more sparse. In my opinion, the many pros easily outweigh that con, but worth noting.
Super secluded, loved the walk through the woods, really nice fire pit/grill, very generous amount of firewood. No water was left for me and I couldn’t find the toilet but I also never asked about either of these so I can’t really complain. Was also very thankful there was bug spray! Overall would recommend and definitely would come back 😊




Very cool camp site for a quick weekend away. The fire wood provided and fire starting kit was perfect. The main road and neighbors are closer than expected but the houses are far enough away they are not an issue.
- Property
- Riverside Drive Retreat.
- State
- Ohio
- Country
- United States
- $40/night
- 1 Site
Thank you Monica!! Glad you enjoyed your stay!