Camp Dennison camping sites sit within the lower Little Miami River valley at 550-600 feet elevation. Campers often find seasonal water levels impact access at riverside locations during spring and fall. Area campgrounds vary from shaded wooded settings to more open, lakeside environments with notable temperature swings between daytime and nighttime hours, especially in early fall.
What to do
Paddle the Little Miami River: Jim Terrell Park provides a convenient access point for paddling adventures. "This campsite is tucked away as in across the street from the bike trail... right next to the campground is a mountain biking trail that is 1.2 miles long," notes Kenpocentaur K. at Jim Terrell Park.
Visit historic Milford: When staying near Camp Dennison, the town of Milford offers amenities within walking distance. "The Milford bike trail is part of a paved bike path that is 76 miles long. You will hear traffic noise at this campsite as it is close to the main road and main bridge in town," according to Jim Terrell Park reviews.
Mountain bike on dedicated trails: Several parks offer biking opportunities beyond the paved trails. "Not a bad little park for mountain biking, hiking, etc.," mentions Caleb S. about East Fork State Park Campground.
Explore Cincinnati attractions: Winton Woods offers camping with city access. "This is a great county park! It has a nice 'campground' feel set in a large pine trees and wide sites but has 50-amp full hook-up sites. The campground is set in Winton Woods County Park which is about 20 minutes from downtown Cincinnati," explains Nancy W.
What campers like
Secluded tent camping spots: Stonelick State Park attracts tent campers seeking privacy. "Drive in spots for campers, RVs, or tents. Sites are drive-up with plenty of room for a tent or two and fire-rings. Some sites may have trees for hammocks," writes Clay A. at Stonelick State Park Campground.
Clean, modern facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain good standards for amenities. "Bath house is clean and modern. There is potable water in multiple sites and a double sided dump station. The staff and the host are very pleasant and helpful," notes Craig C. about Stonelick State Park.
Water recreation access: Multiple campgrounds provide water activities. "Amazing views of the water and surrounding wooded areas. Good place to fish for bluegill and catfish. Awesome place to swim during daytime hours, just remember to use caution and don't go out of designated area," says Lisa S.
Proximity to bike trails: Olive Branch Campground provides convenient trail access. "Sites are spacious and ours backed up to a wooded area. The campground was only about three miles from a trailhead on the Little Miami Scenic Trail," explains Cindy B. at Olive Branch Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding impacts: Spring rains affect riverside camping areas. "The trail to the lake was right next to the site and that was lovely," mentions Kara S. at Stonelick State Park, while adding that "my first night the shower house STUNK but then the next day it smelled fine while our closest bathrooms were out of order."
Campsite reservations crucial: Advanced booking is essential for popular sites. "When we reserved months earlier, we knew that our first night (a Saturday) was 100% full as we got the very last site," reports Lee D. about East Fork State Park.
Winter season limitations: Caesar Creek State Park Campground operates year-round but with reduced amenities. "Large, quiet campground with trails and a lake. Clean shower houses throughout the campground. There is a small beach for swimming and a boat ramp at the lake," says Jill L.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience more noise than others. "Despite the rain and the wind we had a great time! Our spot was right next to a small Pollinator trail that lead to the water. My little ones had a blast riding their scooters around the round about," shares Jess H.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Winton Woods Campground offers excellent child-friendly facilities. "The location is located on the lake with access to put in a kayak or canoe. There is a playground for children, and a camp store that sells firewood and supplies," notes Anne H.
Swimming options: Beaches at state parks provide swimming opportunities during summer months. "A 1.7 mile paved walking trail is great for walking, running and biking. A short 18 hole Disc Golf course is close by. It is a easy course great for beginners," explains Dan G. about Winton Woods.
Nature programs: Several campgrounds offer educational activities. "This park has a little for everyone. The nature center offered movies in the evening for guest. The park was very clean and maintained. Trails were well marked and the camp hosts were very friendly," describes Andrea F.
Kid-friendly fishing: Fishing opportunities suitable for children exist at multiple locations. "The fish are the best," notes a review of Cozy-Dale Campground, while another camper adds, "The kids can fish run around there's a large playground and horseshoes and a basketball hoop."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA provides complete RV services. "The entry road is one lane. If you meet another vehicle someone has to back up. The roads in the campground need grading. Lots of holes and ruts," cautions Joel R. at Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. "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," explains Lee D.
Navigating tight spaces: Larger rigs should consider specific campgrounds. "Big sites but can be loud and crowded. Nice big sites, fairly level. We camped at site 35 and it was very slopey, our levelers only helped a little," warns Kara S.
Winter camping options: Year-round RV sites are limited but available. "Very well kept campground with a lot of shade trees. Good separation of seasonal and overnight campers. Pull through and back ins available with full hookups. Grass between sites...some are more level than others," notes Dave B. about Olive Branch Campground.