Tent camping options near Cedarville, Ohio range across Greene County's network of river-based recreation areas and metro parks. The Little Miami River watershed creates numerous camping opportunities within a 30-mile radius of Cedarville, particularly at elevations between 800-1,000 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler conditions with overnight lows sometimes dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Riverside hiking trails: At Narrows Reserve, the 1.25-mile trail to the primitive campsites offers multiple recreational opportunities. "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!" notes one camper who enjoyed the well-maintained path.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Jacoby Road Canoe Launch provides direct river access for paddlers. "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," writes a reviewer who appreciated the quiet setting.
Bird watching: Several campgrounds offer bird watching opportunities, especially in meadow settings. At Narrows Reserve, one visitor noted, "Tons of traffic with bird watchers and joggers. 8 to 8 seemed quite other than a dog that came barking through meadow in middle of night."
What campers like
Proximity to water: Many campers appreciate how close tent sites are to water features. At Constitution County Park, a reviewer mentions, "This park is a very small park running along the little Miami river, but that doesn't make it bad. Its literally right beside the river and it has a small ramp into the river."
Complimentary firewood: A unique feature at Possum Creek Metro Park is the included firewood with reservations. "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 a camper who found this service valuable.
Secluded sites: The best tent camping near Cedarville offers privacy between campsites. At Twin Creek Metro Park, a camper observed, "The other two group camp sites were far enough away that you couldn't hear or see them. It was a camp site that was flat enough for tents and did have trees to hang your hammock."
What you should know
Reservations and permits: Most sites require advance booking. At Jacoby Road Canoe Launch, "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."
Limited facilities: Many camping areas have minimal amenities. One camper at Dayton Metro Parks noted about the Twin Valley Trail campsites: "If there is one complaint, it would be that there is a dearth of potable water stations, so all water needs to be packed in from trailheads with water, the Welcome Center, or pumped from non-potable sources, filtered and/or treated."
Seasonal conditions: The Little Miami River can flood after heavy rains. A backpacker at Germantown MetroPark observed, "The creek runoff is managed by the Germantown Dam, and the park is upstream, so the heavy rains we'd been having had left the valley and banks very sloppy and muddy."
Tips for camping with families
Explore historical remnants: Kids enjoy discovering abandoned structures on trails. At Possum Creek, "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."
Take advantage of equipment rentals: Five Rivers Metro Parks offers camping gear rental. "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," shares a camper who appreciated this service.
Visit nearby farms: Some parks feature educational agricultural areas. "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," reports a family who camped at Morris Bean Reserve.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping near Cedarville isn't suited for large RVs. A visitor to Constitution County Park mentioned, "The park overall is nice, just a little small. Perfect if you want to camp alone or with a small party of six. It runs right next to the little Miami."
Park security presence: RVers and tent campers alike appreciate the safety measures. At Possum Creek, "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."
Consider group sites for multiple vehicles: Some parks offer dedicated group areas. A camper at Possum Creek noted, "Buckeye my campsite 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."
