Tent camping near Belmont, Ohio offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation within Greene County and surrounding areas. The region's terrain features limestone bluffs, creek watersheds, and rolling hills with elevation changes that create challenging hiking conditions. Summer temperatures average in the mid-80s during day and mid-60s at night, making early fall an ideal time for comfortable camping experiences.
What to do
Water activities at Jacoby Road Canoe Launch: Located directly on the Little Miami River with picnic tables and fire pits. "Beautiful spot for tent camping right next to the Little Miami River. Picnic tables and fire pit are also nice amenities," notes Logan from Jacoby Road Canoe Launch.
Visit historical sites: Explore nearby towns with historical attractions. "We drove into town and discovered a covered bridge that I had missed on an earlier camping trip. This town also has the Florentine which is one of the oldest inns in Ohio," shares a camper at Possum Creek Metro Park.
Seasonal water recreation: During warmer months, water activities abound. "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!" remarks Austin R. from Narrows Reserve.
Disc golf and fishing: Some parks offer additional recreational activities beyond hiking. "This park has such a variety of things to do. there's a great disc golf course... Also includes playground and pond for kids to fish in," reports Heidi G. about Sycamore State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Metro parks often feature well-spaced sites. "This camp site is listed as a 10 person camp site. There is no water on site so make sure you bring all the water that you will need," explains a camper at Twin Creek Metro Parks.
Provided firewood at Metro Parks: Many Five Rivers Metro Parks campsites include firewood with reservation. "The nice thing about the metro parks camp sites (front country only) is that they provide a bundle of fire wood free each night and you can purchase additional bundles," says Kenpocentaur K. from Possum Creek Metro park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural areas provide animal sighting possibilities. "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."
Low traffic at some sites: Some areas remain less crowded than others. "This site was so low key and didn't have a lot of people. We saw a few cars and trucks during our weekend as it is a canoe launch. Locals also will stop here to hike and avoid the crowds in town."
What you should know
Pack-in water requirements: Most sites lack potable water. "No water so be sure to bring your own. Paved parking lot for the larger groups which is nice," reports a camper from Five Rivers Metroparks.
Primitive toilets only: Facilities are basic. "The bathroom is simply a porta john. It is the accessible one and was fairly clean while I was at the site. No running water, electricity, or other perks such as being able to buy ice at the campground."
Reservation requirements and fees: Most sites require advance booking with specific details. "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."
Security presence: Rangers regularly patrol camping areas. "The ranger checked in on me and also let me know he was closing the gate to the park. I had his contact information and felt safe and secure while camping here."
Tips for camping with families
Gear rental options: Some parks offer equipment rentals for newcomers. "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."
Trail difficulty considerations: Assess trails before hiking with children. "This was a lovely backpacking trail that is both challenging while not being too hard for new backpackers," notes a visitor to Constitution County Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature educational components. "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."
Privacy for family camping: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. "During these COVID-19 times we wanted a place to park that wasn't the traditional Ohio State Park camp site. We didn't want to share a common bathroom/bath house or playground area."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Limited options exist for RVers. "This walk-in campsite is located near Argonne Lake parking lot. It features access to hiking trails, nearby sustainable farm and demonstration gardens, as well as fishing."
Camp kitchen considerations: Some sites have shared cooking facilities. "They provided a common cooking area between the backpacking sites. Logs to sit on and cooking surface."
Parking limitations: Know where larger vehicles can park. "Capacity is 25 individuals and ample parking," notes a visitor from Twin Creek Metro Parks regarding the group sites.
Waste disposal options: RVers should note facilities for waste management. "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."
