Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Ohio camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
Touted as the most Scenic Park in Ohio, John Bryan State Park manages to fulfill its lofty title with ease. Within these 752 acres lies mammoth limestone faces carved out from years of erosion by the historical Little Miami River. Starting 980 feet above sea level in Clifton, the river pierces and snakes its way through the limestone, exposing a new layer of earth’s ancient shale and bedrock down a 130 foot drop. Every layer is noted for its unique glimpse into the history of the area, revealing stories of past weather events, glacial ice movements, and much more. The local Shawnee Native Americans have long respected the region, thanks to economic prosperity owing to the industry and resources established along Little Miami River.
When it comes to attractions and recreation, there’s more to do here than you’d think. Rock Climbers and bouldering enthusiasts visit year round to scale the large limestone rock formations and natural climbing runs formed thanks to the river’s erosion. The Little Miami serves as a popular river for small-boaters, and is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in Ohio.
For more fun, families and groups can head over to the 18-hole Disc-Golf course, then complete the day with a picnic at one of the many designated areas throughout the park. For those looking for a casual bike-ride, the 1.1 mile Arboretum (Observatory) Trail makes for a quality impromptu ride. Moreover, those in search of hiking and mountain biking trails won’t be disappointed either, as there’s no shortage of well-maintained paths to trek through.
Camping here is relatively straightforward, with reservations to be made online 24/7. There are 61 campsite available, 9 of which offer electricity. Latrines, a dump-station, and drinking water are all available, except during the off-season. Most of the campsites offer at least partial shade, a fire circle, and a picnic table. Additionally, pets are permitted throughout the park.
From May to October, there is a Day Lodge available for rental which includes two fireplaces, a restroom, full-service kitchen, and large screened-in porch. Picnic shelter houses can also be made via reservation for day-use only. Finally, if you’re coming in a group, a large 100-person group camp area is available complete with two onsite Adirondack shelters.
$23 - $35 / night
UPDATE March 2023: ... Campground: Loops E & F Sites 136-287 are closed for electrical upgrade. Sites will open as construction allows. Loops A, B, C & D Sites 1 – 137 are available to reserve. Thank you for your patience.
A Camp Store offers supplies, firewood, ice, concessions, novelties, and kayak rental seasonally. Caesar Creek Lake is located in southwest Ohio, centered between Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus. Visitors flock to Caesar Creek Lake for its great fishing, boating, Visitor Center and trail opportunities. Natural Features: Caesar Creek Lake is home to many different wildflower prairies throughout the park which offer views of native wild prairie flowers, insects and bird species. Caesar Creek Lake is also home to more than 50 miles of trails including the 13 mile backpack trail which takes you to a scenic overlook of Horseshoe Falls. Recreation: Caesar Creek Lake offers excellent boating, water skiing and canoeing. Anglers fish for crappie and trophy muskie. The shelter is close to the Visitor Centers courtesy dock, allowing for easy shoreline fishing or to launch a kayak. Also, the shelter is within a short walking distance to the Caesar Creek Lake Visitor Center which offers exhibits, films and information about the lake and Corps missions in the Ohio Valley. Visitors can also take advantage of the new Adena Trace fitness trail with 9 workout stations over a mile loop as well as 50 miles of additional hiking, mountain biking, and bridle trails. Facilities: Each shelter is located near the Caesar Creek Visitor Center where a 24-hour indoor heated and cooled restroom can be found. Many shelters also offer some of the largest playground areas found at Caesar Creek Lake. Each shelter also offers two cooking grills and both electric and water are provided with reservation. Nearby Attractions: Caesar Creek Lake offers 50 miles of hiking, mountain biking, bridle and archery trails. Caesar Creek Pioneer Village offers a collection of over 15 log cabins and other structures that are open during special events. Caesar Creek Nature Center is adjacent to the Pioneer Village; the nature center features exhibits on the areas cultural and natural history.
$17 - $75 / night
Large campground features shady sites for all types of camping. Pets are welcome on designated sites.
An equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
286 electric campsites offer both wooded and sunny areas, some of which overlook the lake. Each site has 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookup. 24 full-service campsites offer electric, sewer and water hookups Heated shower facilities with flush toilets and dump station Beach and boat ramp for exclusive use of the overnight guests Basketball courts, volleyball, miniature golf, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds Nature programs Equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Located in west-central Ohio, 5,100-acre Indian Lake State Park Campground offers a variety of water-related recreational opportunities. Visitors can boat, fish, jet-ski and camp at this noteworthy, man-made lake. The park itself is 800 acres and features two beaches for swimmers to enjoy. Campers can enjoy the shade of large mature oak, sycamore and maple trees and cozy up to a campfire for a night of s’mores and laughter. Indian Lake, Ohio campgrounds guarantee fun for everyone.
At Dayton KOA Holiday, it is our goal to be your home away from home. We offer many ways to stay, whether you are looking for a traditional camping site or one that provides a unique camping experience, like our Glamping Tent. We provide grassy Tent Sites with varying hookup options to create unforgettable nights beneath the starry sky. For a little more comfort than Tent Camping, we offer Camping Cabins with beds, Cable TV and AC. Our Deluxe Cabins and Glamping Tents provide ultimate comfort with bathrooms, showers and A/C facilities for a luxurious camping experience. Some also have full or partial kitchens.
Are you an avid RV camper? Our RV Park near Dayton, Ohio, has full hookups, and offers 50 max amp service options for our RV Sites. Many of our sites also include KOA Patios® for enjoying time with your family and relaxing by the fire. It is sure to be an RV campground you will never forget.
This recreation area is part of Delaware Lake
Touted as the most Scenic Park in Ohio, John Bryan State Park manages to fulfill its lofty title with ease. Within these 752 acres lies mammoth limestone faces carved out from years of erosion by the historical Little Miami River. Starting 980 feet above sea level in Clifton, the river pierces and snakes its way through the limestone, exposing a new layer of earth’s ancient shale and bedrock down a 130 foot drop. Every layer is noted for its unique glimpse into the history of the area, revealing stories of past weather events, glacial ice movements, and much more. The local Shawnee Native Americans have long respected the region, thanks to economic prosperity owing to the industry and resources established along Little Miami River.
When it comes to attractions and recreation, there’s more to do here than you’d think. Rock Climbers and bouldering enthusiasts visit year round to scale the large limestone rock formations and natural climbing runs formed thanks to the river’s erosion. The Little Miami serves as a popular river for small-boaters, and is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in Ohio.
For more fun, families and groups can head over to the 18-hole Disc-Golf course, then complete the day with a picnic at one of the many designated areas throughout the park. For those looking for a casual bike-ride, the 1.1 mile Arboretum (Observatory) Trail makes for a quality impromptu ride. Moreover, those in search of hiking and mountain biking trails won’t be disappointed either, as there’s no shortage of well-maintained paths to trek through.
Camping here is relatively straightforward, with reservations to be made online 24/7. There are 61 campsite available, 9 of which offer electricity. Latrines, a dump-station, and drinking water are all available, except during the off-season. Most of the campsites offer at least partial shade, a fire circle, and a picnic table. Additionally, pets are permitted throughout the park.
From May to October, there is a Day Lodge available for rental which includes two fireplaces, a restroom, full-service kitchen, and large screened-in porch. Picnic shelter houses can also be made via reservation for day-use only. Finally, if you’re coming in a group, a large 100-person group camp area is available complete with two onsite Adirondack shelters.
$23 - $35 / night
UPDATE March 2023: ... Campground: Loops E & F Sites 136-287 are closed for electrical upgrade. Sites will open as construction allows. Loops A, B, C & D Sites 1 – 137 are available to reserve. Thank you for your patience.
A Camp Store offers supplies, firewood, ice, concessions, novelties, and kayak rental seasonally. Caesar Creek Lake is located in southwest Ohio, centered between Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus. Visitors flock to Caesar Creek Lake for its great fishing, boating, Visitor Center and trail opportunities. Natural Features: Caesar Creek Lake is home to many different wildflower prairies throughout the park which offer views of native wild prairie flowers, insects and bird species. Caesar Creek Lake is also home to more than 50 miles of trails including the 13 mile backpack trail which takes you to a scenic overlook of Horseshoe Falls. Recreation: Caesar Creek Lake offers excellent boating, water skiing and canoeing. Anglers fish for crappie and trophy muskie. The shelter is close to the Visitor Centers courtesy dock, allowing for easy shoreline fishing or to launch a kayak. Also, the shelter is within a short walking distance to the Caesar Creek Lake Visitor Center which offers exhibits, films and information about the lake and Corps missions in the Ohio Valley. Visitors can also take advantage of the new Adena Trace fitness trail with 9 workout stations over a mile loop as well as 50 miles of additional hiking, mountain biking, and bridle trails. Facilities: Each shelter is located near the Caesar Creek Visitor Center where a 24-hour indoor heated and cooled restroom can be found. Many shelters also offer some of the largest playground areas found at Caesar Creek Lake. Each shelter also offers two cooking grills and both electric and water are provided with reservation. Nearby Attractions: Caesar Creek Lake offers 50 miles of hiking, mountain biking, bridle and archery trails. Caesar Creek Pioneer Village offers a collection of over 15 log cabins and other structures that are open during special events. Caesar Creek Nature Center is adjacent to the Pioneer Village; the nature center features exhibits on the areas cultural and natural history.
$17 - $75 / night
Large campground features shady sites for all types of camping. Pets are welcome on designated sites.
An equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
286 electric campsites offer both wooded and sunny areas, some of which overlook the lake. Each site has 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookup. 24 full-service campsites offer electric, sewer and water hookups Heated shower facilities with flush toilets and dump station Beach and boat ramp for exclusive use of the overnight guests Basketball courts, volleyball, miniature golf, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds Nature programs Equestrian camp has 30 primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Located in west-central Ohio, 5,100-acre Indian Lake State Park Campground offers a variety of water-related recreational opportunities. Visitors can boat, fish, jet-ski and camp at this noteworthy, man-made lake. The park itself is 800 acres and features two beaches for swimmers to enjoy. Campers can enjoy the shade of large mature oak, sycamore and maple trees and cozy up to a campfire for a night of s’mores and laughter. Indian Lake, Ohio campgrounds guarantee fun for everyone.
Traveler
We camped on lot 57 and the view of the lake was awesome! The new bathhouse is open year round
Traveler
The park overall is nice, just a little small. Perfact if you want to camp alone or with a small party of six. It runs right next to the little Miami. The road is extremely near and you can hear every car driving g by. The fall chill by the fire is nice but it's way to open for my taste. Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot. If you plan to go and you are not a people person, I would definitely suggest going away from holidays. The little town across the way is a fun site to see and quiet. There is only one site to camp at, so you won't have to worry about other campers the park is all yours. The Only concern is the visitors to the park
Traveler
A little loud at times. Hardee's restaurant is a different option for meals.
Traveler
Everyone is very polite and helpful with anything you may need. The camp hosts are awesome 👍
Legend
General: 214-site campground, all with electric hookups. Campsites are in four loops.
Site Quality: All sites are paved and appeared to be level. A fire ring, picnic table, and electric hookup complete each site. Generous foliage provides separation between most sites.
Bath/Shower: Fully contained all-gender units in the third loop. Each one has a bench and a baby changing station. Soap and air dryers. A more traditional bath/shower house was in the fourth loop (don’t know about the first two loops).
Activities/Amenities: Several hiking trails (but it was raining when we were there so didn’t explore), a small putt-putt course (free use of putters and balls), disc golf, shuffleboard, basketball, tennis, and a small camper store. Each loop has a playground and other recreational options (i.e. volleyball net). The marina offers water toy rentals.
My five-star rating is based on the possibility of what our stay might have been if the weather had cooperated! Unfortunately, it was cold and rainy during our stay in June. We will definitely be back again to take advantage of the marina rentals.
Guide
Autumn is the best time to camp in Ohio. Lots of small bathrooms. Lake access. Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was due to the fact there was no quick reentry. Had to wait for rvs in front of me to register.
Guide
Not sure about Mound Ridge. This is the Campground for Caesar Creek State Park. Excellent facilities. Clean bathrooms with showers. New electrical posts.
Traveler
We stayed in Site 12, which was huge and conveniently located close to a fairly new shower house. That facility was among the very best I've seen! Amazingly clean!
There are many things to do here: Saturday night movies, Bingo, and, of course, the lake. Canoe, paddle board, and kayak rentals.
The park was not full but somewhat busy, yet, outside of kids playing and dogs occasionally barking, there was little noise.
We drove through the entire campground. Some sites were bigger than others. Most sites were relatively flat.
Fall is a good time to visit Caesars Creek. The trees are turning beautiful colors. Also, the park is convenient for the Ohio Renaissance Fair and events at Roberts Arena.
TravelerGreat park. Staff friendly and helpful bathrooms close to every site. Would be more convenient if all sites had full hookups
Guide
Campground is small with all you need. Shower house. Potable water. Dump station. Nearness to wonderful trails in the SP and Clifton Gorge. Just beautiful. Near picturesque Yellow Springs. Which has the BEST pizza at Bentinos
Traveler
Sites are pretty close together and mostly permanent, but it’s in a good location and decent amenities. Our site needed maintenance but overall, it was a good week.
TravelerWe had a great time. Lots of activities and trails.
TravelerRoads are pretty tight and spots are on the smallish side but not too bad. Most sites are seasonal campers and the non-seasonal sites are kept up very good. We stayed at a Premium pull-thru and the brick patio was very uneven causing me to trip several times. The brick fire ring was overgrown with weeds and grass coming thru the bricks and half of it was a 6-8 inch drop-off.... imagine falling off at night! This was site#133 the neighboring sites didn't look as bad. We would consider staying again at a different site. We camped at Cross Creek Camping Resort in a Fifth Wheel
Ranger
First time visiting this state campground and we only stayed one night, did not explore entire park. Grounds well maintained, clean and decent amenities. The sites are well placed and a good size. But no water view on any of the “premium water view” sites in loop L, other than one L17 (the picture with view) Same for loop K. Guests and hosts were friendly and welcoming. Quiet except for the road noise due to nearby busy roads. The boat launch to lake access is very nice with plenty of parking and space. Not bad for a stop when traveling through or a weekend. We stayed with 34’ camper. Site L15 (picture with red truck)
ScoutI have always had great experiences at this campground.
Ranger
Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn’t see a single person. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood.
Traveler
This is a great place to take the kids. We go here every year. They have an in-ground pool, a small store for camping needs, firewood delivery and propane refills. Cell service here is awful and there is no WiFi. The antenna will pick up several local channels. There is a Dollar General about 10 mins away for grocery needs. They have several pull-through and full hookup options as well. Sites are somewhat level. This park has beautiful landscaping that is always meticulously maintained. They also host events and if you check their event calendar on their website, you can see what’s going on during your stay. We were fortunate enough to see the band Timestamp and loved it! They even had a community bonfire!
Guide
First, the lake here is beautiful. It has many islands, coves and inlets and is perfect for a couple of days of paddling or fishing. That's where the two stars come in.
BUT. There are many buts. The campground is like a giant RV lot. The sites are tiny. We were in a tent-only site and we had two families right on top of us on either side. We could hear the entire conversations of one family, plus there were 11 people there, three cars, and they were partying the first night and extremely noisy.
The reservation map is incorrect. When I reserved, it showed #13 as being on the end of the tent only area. When we arrived, I found out there was a site #14 that wasn't even pictured on the reservation map, and this is where the giant screaming family was parked! I thought I was going to be on the end- it is not very accommodating for a variety of reasons for a reservation map to be so incorrect.
The air everywhere reeks of sewage, ranging from what you smell outside a giant pig farm, to what you smell outside of a porta potty, to rotten egg smell. I don't know where these smells were coming from but it was nonstop.
The bathrooms were extremely dirty. It looks like they haven't been renovated since the 80s.
The employees in the office never seemed to be able to tell us what we needed to know. We asked on Friday evening where the Saturday morning naturalist paddle would be, and we were told to come back Saturday morning and ask someone else. On Saturday, the person in the office told us to go to a location that was miles away- we spent 40 minutes in the car driving around, trying to find where this activity was, only to give up and find out it was actually adjacent to the campground, not down the road in a different part of the park.
Last, the lake is in the middle of a residential neighborhood. You can see houses around the edge of the park while you are sitting in your campsite. It is not remote, and there is a noisy, busy highway running along the side of the campground.
I enjoyed the lake but I will not camp here again.
ScoutI have stayed here several times. The showers are clean and the staff is friendly. Camp sites are spacious. The full hookup sites are a bit smaller. Over all a nice campground!
Scout
Hunter is an amazingly hospitable host and was always there to answer any questions and was willing to go above and beyond to make sure our stay was the best possible. Great place to stay if you want to be close to Cincinati without having to stay in the city and pay those crazy hotel prices or the overpriced campgrounds that just make you feel cramped. Not here plenty of space to roam in his backyard. My wife and I actually tried out his disc golf and found out we are better at just tossing frisbee in his spacious backyard. All in all, its a great place with a great host and If plan to be coming back to the area he will be my first call.
Ranger
I was impressed that this KOA had so many trees. Best tent sites are 320 and the ones next to the creek. Quietest tent sites are 408, 409 and 410, but those are also furthest from the bathroom. Very clean showerhouses. Great basecamp to explore the Dayton area.
Guide
Tomorrow Stars Campground is an excellent layover off I-70, offering a family-friendly and quiet atmosphere. The campground features a pool and boasts clean, well-maintained facilities. The staff goes above and beyond to provide assistance, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. With easy in and out pull-through, level sites, Tomorrow Stars Campground guarantees a hassle-free experience for travelers.
ScoutWe've been to Cowan a few times, first time in this loop and was not disappointed. Bathroom was clean and well stocked through the weekend. Additional vehicles have to pay $3.
Scout
Not a sightseeing destination, but very convenient place to stop for the night if you’re on a road trip doing a lot of driving. Safe neighborhood with a kroger right down the street.
GuideVery well maintained, established state park. Sites are paved, level, and generally ample in space. Ample shade and privacy if needed. Amenities include boating, fishing, disc golf, MTB trails, live music select evenings, etc. Facilities are cleaned regularly. Staff are friendly and helpful..
ScoutMy kids always loved fishing here was a great place to hike as well
Scout
We stayed two nights in #184. Our site was HUGE! The pad was very level, so setting up the TT was quick and easy.
We checked one restroom and one wash house: both were in good condition and quite clean. Lysol was in the air.
The lake was pretty. Watching the herons was relaxing.
The people in our section were courteous. All seemed to obey the quiet hours.
The only negative was the lack of a central fresh water fill station. Spigots are dispersed throughout the camp, which means sitting in the road for as long as it takes to fill your tank. Fortunately, we had a spigot by our site, so we could fill once we parked.
We'll definitely be back.
Camping near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, Ohio, offers a mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent or an RV.
Camping near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, Ohio, has something for everyone. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just relaxing, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir is John Bryan State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 41 reviews.
What parks are near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir that allow camping, notably Deer Creek Lake and Alum Creek Lake.
