What camping is available in Ohio?

According to TheDyrt.com, Ohio offers a wide range of camping options, with 624 campgrounds and RV parks in Ohio and 14 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Ohio?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Ohio is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 107 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Ohio?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots in Ohio.

What are the best parks in Ohio?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks in Ohio that allow camping, notably Wayne National Forest and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Camping in Ohio

2,973 Reviews

Nestled between the Great Lakes and the Appalachian Mountains, Ohio offers a plethora of unforgettable outdoor experiences. Beautiful Lake Erie beaches give way to caves, escarpments, and waterfalls, so if you’re looking to go camping in Ohio, you’re bound to find the perfect spot!

Starting in the northern tip of the state, bordering Lake Erie, campers will find serene beaches and natural coves full of picturesque summertime fun. Kelley’s Island State Park, a 677-acre park on the northern tip of the island, offers campers year-round adventure. Unique natural history and geographical features make Kelley’s Island an excellent choice for camping in Ohio’s unique Great Lake region.

East Harbor State Park, another camper’s haven along the shores of Lake Erie, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, 10 miles of hiking trails, and three boat ramps make this amazing campground the perfect spot for avid outdoorsmen and family campers alike.

South of Lake Erie, near the border of West Virginia, campers will find Ohio’s famous Hocking Hills area. Stunning cliffs and waterfalls, deep hemlock forests, and world-famous caves make this area one of the most popular for year-round camping in Ohio. The most well known cave in the Hocking Hills is Old Man’s Cave, so named for hermit Richard Rowe who lived in the cave for 30 years after settling in the area around 1800. The Old Man’s Cave area provides trails along a breath-taking gorge, which was carved 150 feet into the sandstone by the waters of Old Man’s Creek.

Campgrounds located in the Hocking Hills and Old Man’s Cave areas provide unique opportunities for waterfall hikes, climbing, and canoeing along the Hocking River. The geologically unique Hocking Hills region offers up some of the most beautiful natural beauty in the state and the country.

From pristine Great Lake beaches to the rugged beauty of the Appalachians, let The Dyrt help you find the best camping in Ohio!

Explore the Map

Best Camping Sites in Ohio (624)

1. Hocking Hills State Park Campground
107 Reviews
•545 Photos•
169 Saves
South Bloomingville, Ohio
Hocking Hills State Park offers camping all year round - electric sites, camper cabins, group camps, and primitive sites.
156 electric sites (with 20, 30 or 50 amp electric) and 13 non-electric sites.
Each site has a paved pad and can accommodate up to a 50' unit. Heated showers. Flush toilets. Laundry facility. Dump station. Camp store. Swimming pool for registered campers. Playgrounds. Volleyball court and horseshoe pit. Tent-only group camps are available by reservation. There are also 30 walk-in family sites with pit latrines.
All Hike-In Campgrounds are off the main Entrance and depending on the Site No. It requires up to 0.5 miles to hike from the Parking Lot. You have to drive to a different Parking Lot on State route 374. All sites starting with "H“ will be on the different location.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$29 - $46 / night
2. Alum Creek State Park Campground
76 Reviews
•181 Photos•
109 Saves
Lewis Center, Ohio
Large campground features shady sites for all types of camping. Pets are welcome on designated sites.
An equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
286 electric campsites offer both wooded and sunny areas, some of which overlook the lake. Each site has 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookup. 24 full-service campsites offer electric, sewer and water hookups Heated shower facilities with flush toilets and dump station Beach and boat ramp for exclusive use of the overnight guests Basketball courts, volleyball, miniature golf, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds Nature programs Equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. West Branch State Park Campground
67 Reviews
•230 Photos•
380 Saves
Lake Milton, Ohio
This recreation area is part of Michael J Kirwan Lake
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
4. East Fork State Park Campground
63 Reviews
•272 Photos•
181 Saves
Concord, Ohio
East Fork State Park Campground is large with 400+ year-round sites mostly wooded, and located on the north side of the lake. (follow link for reservation details) It offers Electric and Full Hookup sites, including an equestrian camping in Loop A; all with 20, 30, and 50 amp service. Designated hammock camping sites are available.
Each site has a paved pad, picnic table, and fire ring. Bring your own equipment and play cornhole, soccer, basketball; plus enjoy beach and boat ramp access and pay-to-play putt-putt. Visitor’s Passes ($3) are collected from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and special holidays (ie-Halloween campouts). Leashed pets are permitted in all areas.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$29 - $30 / night
5. Caesar Creek State Park Campground
51 Reviews
•110 Photos•
168 Saves
Arkansas River - Pool 5, Arkansas
UPDATE March 2023: ... Campground: Loops E & F Sites 136-287 are closed for electrical upgrade. Sites will open as construction allows. Loops A, B, C & D Sites 1 – 137 are available to reserve. Thank you for your patience.
A Camp Store offers supplies, firewood, ice, concessions, novelties, and kayak rental seasonally. Caesar Creek Lake is located in southwest Ohio, centered between Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus. Visitors flock to Caesar Creek Lake for its great fishing, boating, Visitor Center and trail opportunities. Natural Features: Caesar Creek Lake is home to many different wildflower prairies throughout the park which offer views of native wild prairie flowers, insects and bird species. Caesar Creek Lake is also home to more than 50 miles of trails including the 13 mile backpack trail which takes you to a scenic overlook of Horseshoe Falls. Recreation: Caesar Creek Lake offers excellent boating, water skiing and canoeing. Anglers fish for crappie and trophy muskie. The shelter is close to the Visitor Centers courtesy dock, allowing for easy shoreline fishing or to launch a kayak. Also, the shelter is within a short walking distance to the Caesar Creek Lake Visitor Center which offers exhibits, films and information about the lake and Corps missions in the Ohio Valley. Visitors can also take advantage of the new Adena Trace fitness trail with 9 workout stations over a mile loop as well as 50 miles of additional hiking, mountain biking, and bridle trails. Facilities: Each shelter is located near the Caesar Creek Visitor Center where a 24-hour indoor heated and cooled restroom can be found. Many shelters also offer some of the largest playground areas found at Caesar Creek Lake. Each shelter also offers two cooking grills and both electric and water are provided with reservation. Nearby Attractions: Caesar Creek Lake offers 50 miles of hiking, mountain biking, bridle and archery trails. Caesar Creek Pioneer Village offers a collection of over 15 log cabins and other structures that are open during special events. Caesar Creek Nature Center is adjacent to the Pioneer Village; the nature center features exhibits on the areas cultural and natural history.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$17 - $75 / night
6. East Harbor State Park Campground
50 Reviews
•150 Photos•
232 Saves
Kelleys Island, Ohio
East Harbor State Park Campground is the largest in the Ohio State Park system. It offers Full Hookup, Electric, Non-electric and ADA sites. Pets are permitted at all sites. Other options include a Yurt (ADA), two Sherman Cabins (one ADA cabin), and Group Camping. Reservations are required and can be made online or by calling (866) 644-6727.
Located in Ohio on the sandy shores of Lake Erie awaits an enormous haven of fun, with tons of chances to recreate. Boating, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and camping all attract flocks of visitors to East Harbor State Park.
Nature lovers will rejoice thanks to the dense population of waterfowl, shore birds, and other species of wildlife. Owing to the swampy, wetland climate, a host of migratory species regularly flock to the region. However, the land was not always this rich. It wasn’t until the draining of the Great Black Swamp that the land transformed into an agricultural oasis, producing regional varieties of fruits such as grapes and peaches.
Before European Settlement, East Harbor region was home to Native American tribes like the Ottawa and Wyandot Tribes. Stemming from the translation “trader”, the Ottawa tribe earned its title due to the geographic location of East Harbor. During the period of Westward Expansion, this park’s acreage was first the heart of popular trade routes for Native Americans.
As it developed, the region has long been valued for its recreational potential. In fact, Lake Erie is more similar (and exotic) to a tropical beach resort than you’d first think. This is due to the extensive range of plant and animal life, long sandy beaches, and the immense size of the lake itself. As a result of these factors, 1,831 acres were reserved and protected, to be known today as East Harbor State Park.
Camping at East Harbor is readily available with 352 electric sites. Furthermore, there are 160 non-electric sites available for a cheaper nightly rate. There are also an additional 51 full hook-up sites for those in Recreational Vehicles. Working Nomads and Van Dwellers will be grateful to find Wifi Available, however there is a small fee to use it.
Finally, there’s Dump Stations, Bathrooms, and Showers are routinely located throughout. For a more secure (and expensive) shelter option, there is one Yurt available for reservation. Book in advance, however, as it tends to be very competitive.
If you’ve got furry friends, you can take a breath of relief as pets are permitted on all sites. Moreover, Bike rentals are available as well as games and sporting equipment from the camp office/lodge. Get outside with your friends (any number of legs invited) and enjoy everything that East Harbor State Park has to offer.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
7. Hueston Woods State Park Campground
46 Reviews
•131 Photos•
124 Saves
College Corner, Ohio
The modern year-round campground offers more than 200 Electric sites, including 20 with Full Hookup, and more than 100 Non-electric sites.
228 campsites with electrical outlets 137 non-electric campsites with vault latrines Picnic table and fire ring at each site. Leashed pets are permitted on any site. Showers, flush toilets, laundry, and trailer waste station Recreational amenities include outdoor checkers, basketball and volleyball courts, and playgrounds Water available in winter
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
8. Mohican State Park Campground
43 Reviews
•173 Photos•
304 Saves
Loudonville, Ohio
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
9. Maumee Bay State Park Campground
40 Reviews
•194 Photos•
255 Saves
Oregon, Ohio
Campground closed for renovations starting Nov 2019
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
10. Findley State Park Campground
41 Reviews
•142 Photos•
175 Saves
Wellington, Ohio
Findley Lake State Park Campground is large and wooded. It offers Full Hookup, Electric, and Non-electric sites; all are pet friendly. Reservations are required; they may be made up to six months in advance online or by calling (866) 644-6727.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$25 - $50 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 624 campgrounds

Popular Camping Styles in Ohio

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Pet-friendly camping in Ohio

Hocking Hills State Park Campground

107 Reviews

545 Photos

169 Saves

South Bloomingville, Ohio

Hocking Hills State Park offers camping all year round - electric sites, camper cabins, group camps, and primitive sites.

156 electric sites (with 20, 30 or 50 amp electric) and 13 non-electric sites.

Each site has a paved pad and can accommodate up to a 50' unit. Heated showers. Flush toilets. Laundry facility. Dump station. Camp store. Swimming pool for registered campers. Playgrounds. Volleyball court and horseshoe pit. Tent-only group camps are available by reservation. There are also 30 walk-in family sites with pit latrines.

All Hike-In Campgrounds are off the main Entrance and depending on the Site No. It requires up to 0.5 miles to hike from the Parking Lot. You have to drive to a different Parking Lot on State route 374. All sites starting with "H“ will be on the different location.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

$29 - $46 / night

Alum Creek State Park Campground

Large campground features shady sites for all types of camping. Pets are welcome on designated sites.

An equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

286 electric campsites offer both wooded and sunny areas, some of which overlook the lake. Each site has 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookup. 24 full-service campsites offer electric, sewer and water hookups Heated shower facilities with flush toilets and dump station Beach and boat ramp for exclusive use of the overnight guests Basketball courts, volleyball, miniature golf, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds Nature programs Equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

East Fork State Park Campground

East Fork State Park Campground is large with 400+ year-round sites mostly wooded, and located on the north side of the lake. (follow link for reservation details) It offers Electric and Full Hookup sites, including an equestrian camping in Loop A; all with 20, 30, and 50 amp service. Designated hammock camping sites are available.

Each site has a paved pad, picnic table, and fire ring. Bring your own equipment and play cornhole, soccer, basketball; plus enjoy beach and boat ramp access and pay-to-play putt-putt. Visitor’s Passes ($3) are collected from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and special holidays (ie-Halloween campouts). Leashed pets are permitted in all areas.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

$29 - $30 / night

Caesar Creek State Park Campground

51 Reviews

110 Photos

168 Saves

Arkansas River - Pool 5, Arkansas

UPDATE March 2023: ... Campground: Loops E & F Sites 136-287 are closed for electrical upgrade. Sites will open as construction allows. Loops A, B, C & D Sites 1 – 137 are available to reserve. Thank you for your patience.

A Camp Store offers supplies, firewood, ice, concessions, novelties, and kayak rental seasonally. Caesar Creek Lake is located in southwest Ohio, centered between Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus. Visitors flock to Caesar Creek Lake for its great fishing, boating, Visitor Center and trail opportunities. Natural Features: Caesar Creek Lake is home to many different wildflower prairies throughout the park which offer views of native wild prairie flowers, insects and bird species. Caesar Creek Lake is also home to more than 50 miles of trails including the 13 mile backpack trail which takes you to a scenic overlook of Horseshoe Falls. Recreation: Caesar Creek Lake offers excellent boating, water skiing and canoeing. Anglers fish for crappie and trophy muskie. The shelter is close to the Visitor Centers courtesy dock, allowing for easy shoreline fishing or to launch a kayak. Also, the shelter is within a short walking distance to the Caesar Creek Lake Visitor Center which offers exhibits, films and information about the lake and Corps missions in the Ohio Valley. Visitors can also take advantage of the new Adena Trace fitness trail with 9 workout stations over a mile loop as well as 50 miles of additional hiking, mountain biking, and bridle trails. Facilities: Each shelter is located near the Caesar Creek Visitor Center where a 24-hour indoor heated and cooled restroom can be found. Many shelters also offer some of the largest playground areas found at Caesar Creek Lake. Each shelter also offers two cooking grills and both electric and water are provided with reservation. Nearby Attractions: Caesar Creek Lake offers 50 miles of hiking, mountain biking, bridle and archery trails. Caesar Creek Pioneer Village offers a collection of over 15 log cabins and other structures that are open during special events. Caesar Creek Nature Center is adjacent to the Pioneer Village; the nature center features exhibits on the areas cultural and natural history.

Pets
Fires
Phone Service
Reservable

$17 - $75 / night

East Harbor State Park Campground

East Harbor State Park Campground is the largest in the Ohio State Park system. It offers Full Hookup, Electric, Non-electric and ADA sites. Pets are permitted at all sites. Other options include a Yurt (ADA), two Sherman Cabins (one ADA cabin), and Group Camping. Reservations are required and can be made online or by calling (866) 644-6727.

Located in Ohio on the sandy shores of Lake Erie awaits an enormous haven of fun, with tons of chances to recreate. Boating, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and camping all attract flocks of visitors to East Harbor State Park.

Nature lovers will rejoice thanks to the dense population of waterfowl, shore birds, and other species of wildlife. Owing to the swampy, wetland climate, a host of migratory species regularly flock to the region. However, the land was not always this rich. It wasn’t until the draining of the Great Black Swamp that the land transformed into an agricultural oasis, producing regional varieties of fruits such as grapes and peaches.

Before European Settlement, East Harbor region was home to Native American tribes like the Ottawa and Wyandot Tribes. Stemming from the translation “trader”, the Ottawa tribe earned its title due to the geographic location of East Harbor. During the period of Westward Expansion, this park’s acreage was first the heart of popular trade routes for Native Americans.

As it developed, the region has long been valued for its recreational potential. In fact, Lake Erie is more similar (and exotic) to a tropical beach resort than you’d first think. This is due to the extensive range of plant and animal life, long sandy beaches, and the immense size of the lake itself. As a result of these factors, 1,831 acres were reserved and protected, to be known today as East Harbor State Park.

Camping at East Harbor is readily available with 352 electric sites. Furthermore, there are 160 non-electric sites available for a cheaper nightly rate. There are also an additional 51 full hook-up sites for those in Recreational Vehicles. Working Nomads and Van Dwellers will be grateful to find Wifi Available, however there is a small fee to use it.

Finally, there’s Dump Stations, Bathrooms, and Showers are routinely located throughout. For a more secure (and expensive) shelter option, there is one Yurt available for reservation. Book in advance, however, as it tends to be very competitive.

If you’ve got furry friends, you can take a breath of relief as pets are permitted on all sites. Moreover, Bike rentals are available as well as games and sporting equipment from the camp office/lodge. Get outside with your friends (any number of legs invited) and enjoy everything that East Harbor State Park has to offer.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

Hueston Woods State Park Campground

The modern year-round campground offers more than 200 Electric sites, including 20 with Full Hookup, and more than 100 Non-electric sites.

228 campsites with electrical outlets 137 non-electric campsites with vault latrines Picnic table and fire ring at each site. Leashed pets are permitted on any site. Showers, flush toilets, laundry, and trailer waste station Recreational amenities include outdoor checkers, basketball and volleyball courts, and playgrounds Water available in winter

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

View All

Recent Reviews in Ohio

2973 Reviews of 624 Ohio Campgrounds

J
Joe I.
Guide
Nov. 9, 2024
West Branch State Park Campground
Great park
First time at this park I can see why it's always booked up. It seems like the sites are good sized but some are on slopes even the pads so make sure to bring stuff to level. Bathrooms were clean separate showers verizon works well here.
Brad H.
Traveler
Nov. 6, 2024
Kiser Lake State Park Campground
Great views of the lake
We camped on lot 57 and the view of the lake was awesome! The new bathhouse is open year round
Megan M.
Guide
Nov. 6, 2024
Shawnee State Park Campground
Some secluded sites in woods- nice!
This campground has some features that are nicer than what is found in many state campgrounds. There are some secluded sites back in the woods, so you don't feel like you are camping in a parking lot in a few places. NOTE that most of these secluded sites (along the back edge of the campground) are up a flight of stairs. You have to carry all your gear up a hill or stairs to set up. You will not be near your car, which can get annoying.
The bathrooms were average, not great but not gross. We were there on their Halloween weekend, with a fun site-decorating contest and trick or treat in the afternoon, which was mildly annoying for us because they closed the roads from 2 to 6 so we could not drive back to our site, and when we finally could, someone was in our parking pot for the next hour.
The lakes are quite tiny. The one at the campground is more like a large pond- fine for paddling around on a paddleboard for practice, but don't think you'll get in any meaningful kayaking or sight-seeing on this pond. The other lake is slightly bigger, but still not big enough for kayaking more than a couple hours at most.
The new campground is on the river on what used to be the golf course- I will write a separate review for that.
The lodge has some amenities (pool, hot tub, cafe, bar), but we ate in the restaurant and it was terrible. I do not recommend. Get some apps at the bar if you have to but keep your expectations low. We had pork nachos and the pork tasted old, everything was cold and it gave me a terrible stomachache.
K
Kim L.
Guide
Nov. 3, 2024
Silver Springs Campground
Simple but comfortable.
Review in a previous post.
K
Kim L.
Guide
Nov. 3, 2024
Silver Springs Campground
Simple but comfortable.
Stayed here while visiting Cuyahoga NP although was 15-20 minute drive to park. But is close to quaint beautiful towns such as Stow Silver and Hudson. Close to a golf course. I felt the road noise was bothersome at night. Most of the sites are simple, treeless but grassy. The power station was several feet from the driveway but the camp host encouraged me to drive on the grass to access power. The price is very reasonable.
T
Tammy F.
Guide
Nov. 2, 2024
Old Stone Church Campground
Easy Access - Mostly Quiet
Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website). Maybe because it was Halloween night, maybe due to hunting season, I dunno, but there seemed to be more traffic than expected for this road. Our only neighbors got a little... rowdy, but it was okay.
Campsite fee is $15 on the honor system. If you have a National Park's Golden Age or Access pass, they honor a 50 percent discount.
I had good 4G ATT cell service. Worked well, with no drops. Data was a bit slower than usual but still good.
The only facilities here were a single pit toilet (surprisingly clean) and a trash can at each site. There may be more services during the height of the season, at least water for horses, but nothing else I could tell.
A short distance further down the road, just after it turns to gravel, at the Old Stone Church trailhead, there are grassy places to back in smaller campers/RVs. And even further down the road, after it turns back to asphalt :D, there's a private campground with utilities, I think, but we only saw it and didn't check it out.
Camden H.
Traveler
Nov. 1, 2024
Constitution County Park
Way to open
The park overall is nice, just a little small. Perfact if you want to camp alone or with a small party of six. It runs right next to the little Miami. The road is extremely near and you can hear every car driving g by. The fall chill by the fire is nice but it's way to open for my taste. Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot. If you plan to go and you are not a people person, I would definitely suggest going away from holidays. The little town across the way is a fun site to see and quiet. There is only one site to camp at, so you won't have to worry about other campers the park is all yours. The Only concern is the visitors to the park
Sonya M.
Scout
Nov. 1, 2024
Paramount's Kings Is Camp Grnd
Place is permanently closed
The park is closed and should no longer be listed on the app.
Brad H.
Traveler
Oct. 31, 2024
Love's RV Hookup-Bellefontaine OH 810
Little noisy. But nice amenities close by. Hardee's restaurant.
A little loud at times. Hardee's restaurant is a different option for meals.
Brad H.
Traveler
Oct. 31, 2024
Indian Lake State Park Campground
Very polite and helpful
Everyone is very polite and helpful with anything you may need. The camp hosts are awesome 👍
T
Tammy F.
Guide
Oct. 31, 2024
Punderson State Park Campground
Only consideration is noise...
TL:DR-This is a really nice, well-kept campground, though there may be some noise.
Pros: very clean, well-kept grounds and bathrooms; there's a nice-looking playground, two lakes, trails.
Considerations: the entire time we were here, the wind was 10-15 mph and all of our neighbors were very quiet, friendly, and respectful. So the majority of what we heard was October winds blowing leaves off the trees (nice!!), but the few times the wind died down, or when motorcycles or large trucks were on the highway, the sound came thru loud and clear.
The only other thing I can say that I don't think others did, is that some of the sites, like ours, while more or less level where you'd put an RV, might require going up or down an incline to get to the picnic table. A bit of a problem if you have trouble with knees or hips. ;)
Lee D.
Legend
Oct. 29, 2024
East Harbor State Park Campground
Another great Ohio State Park
General: This campground is huge with a mix of FHU (some back-in and some pull-through), electric hookup, no hookup, group sites, cabins, and one yurt. On a Monday night in June, many of the sites were occupied.
Site Quality: All camper pads were paved and appeared level. Some sites were a little close together but there was reasonable separation and there was plenty of foliage. Site H3 was a good one as it had no site next to it on one side.
Bath/Shower house: In our loop, the bathhouse was clean. It took a while for the water to get hot but once it did, it was very hot. The water pressure was very good. The only problem with the shower was that water leaked out onto the floor outside and there always appeared to be a lot of water, which could pose a slipping hazard.
Activities/Amenities: A camper store and nature center, game room, laundry, dump station and potable water, disc golf, hiking trails, multi-use trails, marina (for large boats, not kayaks or SUPS), basketball, volleyball, archery, fish cleaning station. I think I mentioned everything!
We enjoyed our two-night stay here, and if/when we return, we would consider taking a ferry to some of the smaller islands nearby.
Lee D.
Legend
Oct. 29, 2024
Delaware State Park Campground
Large, well-laid-out park on the Delaware Reservoir
General: 214-site campground, all with electric hookups. Campsites are in four loops.
Site Quality: All sites are paved and appeared to be level. A fire ring, picnic table, and electric hookup complete each site. Generous foliage provides separation between most sites.
Bath/Shower: Fully contained all-gender units in the third loop. Each one has a bench and a baby changing station. Soap and air dryers. A more traditional bath/shower house was in the fourth loop (don’t know about the first two loops).
Activities/Amenities: Several hiking trails (but it was raining when we were there so didn’t explore), a small putt-putt course (free use of putters and balls), disc golf, shuffleboard, basketball, tennis, and a small camper store. Each loop has a playground and other recreational options (i.e. volleyball net). The marina offers water toy rentals.
My five-star rating is based on the possibility of what our stay might have been if the weather had cooperated! Unfortunately, it was cold and rainy during our stay in June. We will definitely be back again to take advantage of the marina rentals.
Dave B.
Guide
Oct. 27, 2024
Cowan Lake State Park Campground
Large Campground
Autumn is the best time to camp in Ohio. Lots of small bathrooms. Lake access. Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was due to the fact there was no quick reentry. Had to wait for rvs in front of me to register.
Lee D.
Legend
Oct. 26, 2024
East Fork State Park Campground
HUGE state park with many activities
General: Huge state park with over 400 sites. All are pet-friendly and electric. About 20 are FHU. While tent camping is permitted, certain sites are not recommended for it as there would be no place to pitch a tent. One loop is for equestrian camping but when we were there, I only saw one horse trailer, and the rest were occupied by RV campers.
Site Quality: All camper pads are paved and most appeared level or just very slightly sloped. A picnic table and fire ring complete the site. Some sites have more trees to provide privacy while others are closer together with little separation.
Bath/Shower House: Not all loops have their own bath house and the I loop where we stayed was one of them. We used the one in the H Loop. The bathhouses were clean, and the shower had nice hot water, however, it doesn’t seem like there were sufficient facilities for how large the campground was (H Loop had two showers, two toilets, and three sinks). Hooks or shelves would have been appreciated.
Activities/Amenities: Many activities can be enjoyed here including mini golf (small nine-hole course), soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, corn hole, boating, and bicycling. Playgrounds are in several loops (I saw them in C and G). Rentals are available but most are only in season (ended September 30). There is a nature center and several hiking or paved biking/walking trails. There is also a camper beach for boating and swimming.
When we reserved months earlier, we knew that our first night (a Saturday) was 100% full as we got the very last site. What we did not know is that there was a HUGE Halloween celebration complete with 30-40 decorated golf carts parading through the campground. The road was closed until 6:45 pm (we arrived around 7 pm) and cars lined both sides of the approximately two-mile road! If that's your thing, great but it wasn't necessarily ours!
I appreciate that this park encourages so much outdoor activity, but it is not very pedestrian-friendly. I walked the road from one end to the other and there was no shoulder and, in many spots, no place to safely step off into the grass. I’m guessing it is assumed you will either have a car or golf cart to get around.
One final note: for a park so close to a large city (Cincinnati), I was surprised the cell service was so lacking (on Verizon). We eked out one and occasionally two bars of 4G.
Dave B.
Guide
Oct. 25, 2024
Hocking Hills State Park Campground
Crown Jewel of Ohio
Autumn is the best time to experience this Park. Less crowded than summer. 5 million visitors last year. More than Yellowstone. Guided hike was the best.
Dave B.
Guide
Oct. 25, 2024
Mound Ridge
Caesar Creek State Park Campground
Not sure about Mound Ridge. This is the Campground for Caesar Creek State Park. Excellent facilities. Clean bathrooms with showers. New electrical posts.
Amanda E.
Scout
Oct. 24, 2024
Findley State Park Campground
Very nice
We tent camped. Loved the place. Loved the kayak launch. Some of the sites are super close together. We took a look around and got an idea of where we went to stay next time.
Amanda E.
Scout
Oct. 24, 2024
Leafy Oaks RV Park and Campground
One of our local favorites
We tent camp. They have a great spot that’s set back in the woods. There are lots of trees. Very peaceful. Dislikes are no shower houses or toilets back there except one port a potty. The shower houses they do have not a huge fan of. Def bring your flip flops. They have a nice pond.
BluePitMom O.
Traveler
Oct. 20, 2024
Caesar Creek State Park Campground
Nice, Relaxing Park
We stayed in Site 12, which was huge and conveniently located close to a fairly new shower house. That facility was among the very best I've seen! Amazingly clean!
There are many things to do here: Saturday night movies, Bingo, and, of course, the lake. Canoe, paddle board, and kayak rentals.
The park was not full but somewhat busy, yet, outside of kids playing and dogs occasionally barking, there was little noise.
We drove through the entire campground. Some sites were bigger than others. Most sites were relatively flat.
Fall is a good time to visit Caesars Creek. The trees are turning beautiful colors. Also, the park is convenient for the Ohio Renaissance Fair and events at Roberts Arena.
C
Christopher M.
Traveler
Oct. 15, 2024
Indian Lake State Park Campground
Road life
Great park. Staff friendly and helpful bathrooms close to every site. Would be more convenient if all sites had full hookups
Brad H.
Traveler
Oct. 15, 2024
Mt Gilead State Park Campground
Store didn't open for the first two days we were here.
The store and check in office weren't open to check in or get the wifi password.
Brad H.
Traveler
Oct. 14, 2024
Mt Gilead State Park Campground
Small but busy. Pretty close to 95. A little loud at times. Hard to find the office open.
Heated bathroom was nice.
B
Beth
Guide
Oct. 14, 2024
John Bryan State Park Campground
Great, Small Campground
Campground is small with all you need. Shower house. Potable water. Dump station. Nearness to wonderful trails in the SP and Clifton Gorge. Just beautiful. Near picturesque Yellow Springs. Which has the BEST pizza at Bentinos
Dan M.
Traveler
Oct. 14, 2024
Cross Creek Camping Resort
Nice spot in a good location.
Sites are pretty close together and mostly permanent, but it’s in a good location and decent amenities. Our site needed maintenance but overall, it was a good week.
A
A B.
Traveler
Oct. 13, 2024
Geneva Hills - Camp and Event Center
Would stay again
Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren’t any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp. It was a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp.
J
JOHN T.
Legend
Oct. 13, 2024
Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake
Nice Huge CG
Nice huge CG with mostly long term residents. Gravel roads and relatively level gravel sites. Good FHUs. A lot of amenities for things to do. Laundry facilities were clean with good machines. We would stay here again.

Guide to Ohio

Camping in Ohio offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for a weekend getaway or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure, Ohio's campgrounds have something for you.

What to do

Explore Nature: Many campgrounds are near lakes and hiking trails. For example, at Alum Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy boating, fishing, and mountain biking. One camper mentioned, “Amenities include boating, fishing, disc golf, MTB trails, live music select evenings, etc.”
Family Activities: Campgrounds like Campbell Cove Camping have playgrounds and swimming areas. A visitor shared, “There is a great playground for kids and a swimming hole.”
Wildlife Watching: Many parks are home to diverse wildlife. One camper at Deer Creek State Park Campground noted, “We saw deer, heard coyotes and even saw a flying squirrel one night - really cool.”

What campers like

Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower houses. A review from Mohican State Park Campground stated, “Restrooms and showers clean and sanitary.”
Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites with plenty of space. A visitor at Dillon State Park Campground mentioned, “Dillon is one of our favorite camping destinations. They have very large sites.”
Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Findley State Park Campground said, “Park Staff was great and very friendly.”

What you should know

Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or activities. A camper at Alum Creek State Park Campground noted, “The constant road noise and insane amount of small plane traffic is extremely annoying.”
Site Selection: Not all sites are created equal. A visitor at A.W. Marion State Park Campground mentioned, “The sites are shaded, which is nice, but pretty close together.”
Limited Amenities: Some parks may lack certain amenities. A camper at Mount Gilead State Park Campground pointed out, “The flush toilets are closed for the season so only the vault toilets were open.”

Tips for camping with families

Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. Campbell Cove Camping has a great playground and swimming area, making it perfect for kids.
Plan for Noise: If your family needs quiet, check reviews for noise levels. One camper at Findley State Park Campground mentioned, “No party people very family friendly.”
Pack for Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for extra fun. A visitor at Mohican Adventures Campground said, “You can ride your bike from Mohican Adventures Campground into downtown Loudonville without going on any roads.”

Tips from RVers

Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Dillon State Park Campground noted, “Some of them do hold water in the bottom inside loop of section A.”
Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A review from A.W. Marion State Park Campground mentioned, “The only downfall I saw is that it is not full hook up in most spots.”
Be Prepared for Weather: Some campgrounds can get muddy. A visitor at Dillon State Park Campground warned, “If rain is predicted, the place turns into a complete mudpit.”

Camping in Ohio offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly fun. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful state has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Ohio?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ohio offers a wide range of camping options, with 624 campgrounds and RV parks in Ohio and 14 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground in Ohio?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Ohio is Hocking Hills State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 107 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping in Ohio?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots in Ohio.
What are the best parks in Ohio?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks in Ohio that allow camping, notably Wayne National Forest and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Camping in Ohio

Best Camping Sites in Ohio (624)

1. Hocking Hills State Park Campground

2. Alum Creek State Park Campground

3. West Branch State Park Campground

4. East Fork State Park Campground

5. Caesar Creek State Park Campground

6. East Harbor State Park Campground

7. Hueston Woods State Park Campground

8. Mohican State Park Campground

9. Maumee Bay State Park Campground

10. Findley State Park Campground

Popular Camping Styles in Ohio

Tent Camping in Ohio

RV Parks in Ohio

Free Dispersed Camping in Ohio

Cabins in Ohio

Dog Friendly Camping in Ohio

Glamping in Ohio

Horse Camping in Ohio

Pet-friendly camping in Ohio

Hocking Hills State Park Campground

Alum Creek State Park Campground

East Fork State Park Campground

Caesar Creek State Park Campground

East Harbor State Park Campground

Hueston Woods State Park Campground

Recent Reviews in Ohio

2973 Reviews of 624 Ohio Campgrounds

Great park

Great views of the lake

Some secluded sites in woods- nice!

Simple but comfortable.

Simple but comfortable.

Easy Access - Mostly Quiet

Way to open

Place is permanently closed

Little noisy. But nice amenities close by. Hardee's restaurant.

Very polite and helpful

Only consideration is noise...

Another great Ohio State Park

Large, well-laid-out park on the Delaware Reservoir

Large Campground

HUGE state park with many activities

Crown Jewel of Ohio

Caesar Creek State Park Campground

Very nice

One of our local favorites

Nice, Relaxing Park

Road life

Store didn't open for the first two days we were here.

Small but busy. Pretty close to 95. A little loud at times. Hard to find the office open.

Great, Small Campground

Nice spot in a good location.

Would stay again

Nice Huge CG

Guide to Ohio

What to do

What campers like

What you should know

Tips for camping with families

Tips from RVers