Tent campsites near Beavercreek, Ohio sit between 800-1,000 feet above sea level in the Little Miami River watershed. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with July temperatures averaging 75°F. Most primitive sites require advance reservations at least 48 hours before arrival, with cancellation policies varying by park district.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Possum Creek Metro Park has several fishing spots including Argonne Lake and smaller ponds where no fishing license is required. According to a camper, "I spent my time at Argonne Lake but you will notice folks fishing at that lake and the other smaller lakes onsite."
Hiking historical trails: Possum Creek Metro Park features trails with abandoned structures. "For those that need something interesting to look at you will find old abandoned items such as a pool and street car in the woods. The land has an interesting history you will want to explore."
Kayaking the Little Miami: Constitution County Park provides direct river access with a small launch ramp. One visitor notes, "Its literally right beside the river and it has a small ramp into the river. It's the perfect launching point for anyone wanting to take a kayaking trip down the river."
Backpacking connected trails: The Twin Valley Trail system offers challenging terrain for overnight trips. A hiker reported, "This was a lovely backpacking trail that is both challenging while not being too hard for new backpackers...The Twin Valley Trail was well marked and had a variety of ravines."
Swimming in natural spots: The trails around Narrows Reserve have swimming holes and rope swings. "Along the trail there were spots where you could jump in the river and even a rope swing. I didn't bring my swim trunks, but I wish I had!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Twin Creek Metro Park, "Even then they are out of side from each other. You can somewhat hear the other two camp sites (rarely). This meant with two little ones we wouldn't have to constantly remind them to socially distance or put on masks."
Clean facilities: Despite primitive settings, the Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks) maintains facilities well. "The vault toilets are one of the best as they are always clean. We have hand sanitizer and toilet paper. We didn't have to share our vault toilet with any other family units."
Complimentary firewood: Five Rivers Metroparks provides substantial firewood bundles with reservations. A camper explains, "They provide a bundle of firewood for each night that you have reserved the site...This is a huge bundle. It is dry and cut in an easy to use manner."
River proximity: The Jacoby Road Canoe Launch camping area offers waterfront sites. One camper appreciated the "Beautiful spot for tent camping right next to the Little Miami River. Picnic tables and fire pit are also nice amenities."
Multiple tables at sites: Unlike state parks with single tables, some metro park sites have additional seating. "The nice thing about their site is the additional tables made it easy for us to socially distance. When I camp at local state parks and we only have one table it can be tricky to keep coolers, food, and people separated."
What you should know
Walk-in distances: Some sites require significant hiking with gear. At Narrows Reserve, "I realized the primitive campsites were 1.25 miles from the parking lot... You can opt to park in the lower parking lot where there is a kayak launch too."
No drinking water: Most tent sites lack potable water sources. "You will need to bring in the water that you will need for cooking and cleaning during your stay."
Reservation requirements: Camping permits must be secured in advance and displayed. "When you make your reservation online you will need to know the car make/model, year, and license plate number. This is done for safety reasons and to ensure cars are parked in the appropriate locations."
Gear rental options: For beginners without equipment, Sycamore State Park Campground offers rental packages. According to one visitor, "If you do not have camping gear but still want to get out and try it then you can rent it from them...A set of 6 is $50.00 for the weekend. This includes the tent, sleeping pads, and sleeping bag."
Road noise: Some sites have minimal buffer from nearby roads. At Constitution County Park, "The road is extremely near and you can hear every car driving by...Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot."
Tips for camping with families
Farm animals nearby: Possum Creek has agricultural attractions. "In addition to the lake, they also had a farm on the property that was enjoyable for the kids to see the animals. You can hear some of the animals but we enjoyed this aspect."
Ranger presence: Security patrols provide peace of mind. "We had two great park volunteers/security stop by to make sure we had everything we need...I had his contact information and felt safe and secure while camping here."
Separate activity tables: Some sites accommodate kids' activities while adults prepare meals. "We also were able to have kids do craft at one of the tables while we were preparing meals."
Engaging trail features: Trails have motivational points of interest for children. "Interesting trails here from Prairie land and to a forest with former amusement park remains. Lots to see to motivate short legs to keep hiking."
Nearby day trips: The town of Yellow Springs offers family-friendly exploration. According to a camper at Jacoby Road, "You will notice the two restaurants mentioned down below in the photos. One of them is an old mill that you can walk around at certain times of the year."
Tips from RVers
Site capacity limitations: Most camping areas near Beavercreek restrict RV access, focusing on tent camping. For example, Buckeye campsite at Possum Creek "is rated as for 5 parking spots and a capacity of 12 folks. This is much more than what is allowed at our local state parks."
Group camping options: For RV groups, Twin Creek Metro Park offers designated areas. "This was a lovely campsite with 4 picnic tables, fire ring, and a very clean latrine. The other two group camp sites were far enough away that you couldn't hear or see them...Capacity is 25 individuals and ample parking."
Solid waste disposal: Unlike many primitive sites, some Five Rivers Metroparks locations have trash facilities. "I love how easy it is to put away the trash and recycle as this isn't something I see at the larger campgrounds within the state."
Parking logistics: Larger vehicles require planning at backpacking trailheads. "Paved parking lot for the larger groups which is nice. Near by within walking distance a lake, amphitheater, and more as this was once a boy scout camp ground."
