Tent campsites near Camden, Ohio offer access to over 2,000 acres of wilderness within short driving distance. Elevations in the area range from 700-1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for hikers and backpackers. Winter camping is available at select locations, though water sources may be limited during colder months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Backpacking adventures: The Twin Valley Trail system at Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks) offers challenging terrain for backpackers of all skill levels. "This was a lovely backpacking trail that is both challenging while not being too hard for new backpackers," notes one camper who appreciated the designated cooking areas between sites.
River activities: Cool off during summer months at Jacoby Road Canoe Launch where you can access the Little Miami River directly from your campsite. The site serves as both a camping location and launch point. A camper explained: "I have not added a transcript of my spoken descriptions that can be heard in each video. Please turn on the Google Live Access for the auto captioning feature in your browser."
Wildlife viewing: Many tent camping areas near Camden include access to wildlife viewing opportunities. Some locations, like Possum Creek Metro Park, feature farm animals that children can observe. Beyond domesticated animals, the meadow prairies and wooded areas attract numerous bird species and small mammals for nature observers.
What campers like
Fire management: Tent campers appreciate the firewood systems at several camping areas. At Possum Creek Metro Park, your camping permit includes a substantial bundle of firewood. "They provide a bundle of firewood for each night that you have reserved the site. In addition, you can easily purchase more wood that will be right there at the site for you," explains one reviewer.
Privacy between sites: Several tent camping areas offer good separation between campsites. Twin Creek Metro Park provides sites that are "out of sight from each other. You can somewhat hear the other two camp sites (rarely)," according to a camper who valued the privacy with young children during COVID restrictions.
Historical features: Trails near camping areas often include remnants of historical structures. At Possum Creek Metro Park, hikers can discover "old abandoned items such as a pool and street car in the woods. The land has an interesting history you will want to explore," notes a visitor who enjoyed these unique trail features.
What you should know
Water planning requirements: Most tent camping areas require bringing your own water supply. "No water so be sure to bring your own," notes a camper at Five Rivers Metro Parks, though some locations like Narrows Reserve have water fountains near parking areas but not at campsites.
Reservation details: Most tent camping locations require advance reservations. Five Rivers Metro Parks uses an online system where weekday rates are typically $20 while weekend rates increase to $28. Some locations like Jacoby Road Canoe Launch require vehicle information during the reservation process: "When you make your reservation online you will need to know the car make/model, year, and license plate number."
Bathroom facilities: Tent camping areas have varying bathroom facilities. Some sites offer vault toilets while others have portable toilets. A camper at Possum Creek noted: "The bathroom is simply a porta john. It is the accessible one and was fairly clean while I was at the site."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Many camping areas include educational components for children. At Constitution County Park, families can explore the nearby small town: "The little town across the way is a fun site to see and quiet." This provides a cultural activity between outdoor adventures.
Farm animal viewing: Families with children enjoy the animal viewing opportunities at certain parks. Possum Creek features a demonstration farm where kids can see farm animals. As one camper mentioned, "In addition to the lake, they also had a farm on the property that was enjoyable for the kids to see the animals."
Equipment rental options: For families new to camping, Five Rivers Metroparks offers camping equipment rentals. "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."
Tips from RVers
Site privacy considerations: RVers who prefer natural settings should target specific campgrounds. At Quakertown State Rec Area, "There's a good amount of trees for shade coverage" according to a visitor who appreciated the natural atmosphere despite fairly standard site spacing.
Alternative amenities: For RVers wanting more developed facilities, Sycamore State Park Campground provides electric hookups and water access points. The park also offers "a great disc golf course, really nice trails to hike with challenging hills and nice areas with shelters for grilling and parties."
Day-use facilities: RVers staying near Camden can access day-use facilities even when not staying at a particular campground. Sycamore State Park includes "playground and pond for kids to fish in," making it suitable for day trips when camping elsewhere in the region.
