## Overview

C.J. Brown Reservoir is located in west-central Ohio, two miles northeast of Springfield; thirty-five miles northeast of Dayton, and forty-five miles west of Columbus.

#### Natural Features:

The Buck Creek valley was once a patchwork of wetland fens, prairie meadows, oak savannas, and open oak woodlands. Today, the 2,120 acre C.J. Brown Reservoir is surrounded by varied habitats, from brushy old fields, to restored prairie, to forest. C.J. Brown was designated an Ohio Important Bird Area in 2002.

#### Recreation:

There are many recreational opportunities to enjoy at the lake including fishing, hiking, biking, wildlife watching, and picnicking. At nearby Buck Creek State Park, visitors also enjoy swimming, boating, and camping.

#### Facilities:

C.J. Brown Reservoir offers three reservable picnic shelters, with grills, picnic tables, electric service, and water fountains. The Visitor Center has exhibits on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and history of the Dam and lake, along with the natural resources and recreation in the area. Restrooms for the Meadow View shelter are located at the Visitor Center.

#### Nearby Attractions:

At adjacent Buck Creek State Park, there is a campground, rental cottages, a marina, swimming beach, and trails. Springfield, Ohio, is just a few miles away, and has several museums that are worth visiting, including the Heritage Center and the Frank Lloyd Wright Westcott House.

Cj Brown Dam and Reservoir - Dam Site (Oh)

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. 

John Bryan State Park

Kiser Lake State Park

This is the HEADLINE

Midwestern

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

Looking for a hike-in campsite in Ohio? These remote campgrounds can be reached by hiking in and offer the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a way you've never experienced before. Find the best information on walk-in camping in Ohio, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience.

Ohio

The Best Hike-In Camping in Ohio

What's the most underrated Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir camping? Hiking in! Plan your hike-in camping trip, pack light, and use Leave No Trace principles to build fire rings at your next campsite. Check out some of the top rated hike-in campsites for backpackers near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir.

Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir

The Best Hike-In Camping Near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, Ohio

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.



Caesar Creek State Park

Located in the heart of Ohio's agricultural country of Pickaway and Fayette Counties, Deer Creek State Park is central Ohio's vacation showplace. A collage of meadows and woodlands surround the scenic reservoir. Deer Creek camping features a modern lodge, cottages, campground, golf course, swimming beach and boating for outdoor enthusiasts.

Deer Creek State Park

Dayton KOA

St. Mary's Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 6-7)

Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks)

Scioto Grove Metro Park is a 620-acre park along the Scioto River with mature forests and scenic bluffs overlooking the river. It features more than seven miles of trails, two picnic areas with shelters, tables and grills, a kids play area and several overlook decks. The park is located on a scenic bend of the Scioto River and is a great destination for canoeists, kayakers, anglers and people wanting to see waterfowl and other wildlife. Dogs on leashes are welcome throughout the park, which also features a sledding hill.

Thanks to a generous donation of 193 acres of land from the City of Grove City, funds from the State of Ohio Clean Ohio Program, and passage of a property tax levy by Franklin County voters, Metro Parks has developed this park for people of all ages and abilities to experience nature and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Additional support came from outdoor retailer REI to construct a backpack trail along the river for those just getting into the sport, as well as those seasoned backpackers who want a quick overnight without having to journey several hours.

Scioto-Grove Metro Park

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. 


Indian Lake State Park

Ohio's state capital also happens to be near some of the best camping in the state. Near Columbus, OH, you can explore the outdoors at a city park that feels miles away from civilization or travel deep into a national forest. With numerous campgrounds near the city, you won't have to go far to pitch your tent before checking out the area, visiting Scioto-Grove Metro Park, or going hiking in Wayne National Forest. The Scioto River also runs through the area with opportunities to spend time boating, fishing, and swimming. There are campsites accessible by boat or vehicle, as well as options for RVs with all of the needed amenities.

Columbus

The Best Camping Near Columbus, Ohio

Join the fun near Cleveland. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Cleveland is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Cleveland camping trip.

Cleveland

The Best Camping Near Cleveland, Ohio

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Cincinnati, OH is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Cincinnati is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Cincinnati, reviewed by campers like you.

Cincinnati

The Best Campgrounds Near Cincinnati | OH Camping

Searching for the best camping near Toledo, OH? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Toledo campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Toledo, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Toledo

The Best Camping Near Toledo, Ohio

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Dayton, OH is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Dayton is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Dayton

The Best Camping Near Dayton, Ohio

Join the fun near Grand Rapids. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Grand Rapids is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Grand Rapids camping trip.

Grand Rapids

The Best Campgrounds Near Grand Rapids, MI | MI Camping

Parma is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Parma is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Parma camping trip.

Parma

The Best Camping Near Parma, Ohio

Are you in need of a campground near Youngstown, OH? 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. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Youngstown

The Best Campgrounds Near Youngstown, Ohio | OH Camping

Searching for the best camping near Lorain, OH? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Ohio camping adventure.

Lorain

The Best Camping Near Lorain, Ohio

Are you in need of a campground near Hamilton, OH? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Hamilton is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Hamilton and user-submitted reviews.

Hamilton

The Best Camping Near Hamilton, Ohio

Wayne National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Wayne National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Wayne National Forest

The Best Camping Near Wayne National Forest, Ohio

Nestled between Akron and Cleveland, OH, lies Cuyahoga Valley National Park where campers can enjoy everything the park has to offer. Spend the day horseback riding exploring the trails and camp along a cow path to travel back in time. Fishing enthusiasts will find some of the best camping opportunities in Ohio are along the Cuyahoga River where you can toss a line out from the shore or a boat. And don't miss the majestic Brandywine Falls. There are plenty of campsites near Cuyahoga Valley National Park offering something for everyone. RV campers can also pull into the area campgrounds and find all of the amenities their large vehicles need.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The Best Camping Near Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Alum Creek Lake, OH is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Alum Creek Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Alum Creek Lake, OH. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Alum Creek Lake

The Best Camping Near Alum Creek Lake, Ohio

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Paint Creek Lake, OH has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Paint Creek Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Paint Creek Lake, OH. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Paint Creek Lake

The Best Camping Near Paint Creek Lake, Ohio

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Deer Creek Lake. 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. Find the best campgrounds near Deer Creek Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Deer Creek Lake

The Best Camping Near Deer Creek Lake, Ohio

Are you in need of a campground near Delaware Lake, OH? Delaware Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Delaware Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Delaware Lake

The Best Camping Near Delaware Lake, Ohio

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mohawk Dam, OH has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Mohawk Dam. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Mohawk Dam, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Mohawk Dam

The Best Camping Near Mohawk Dam, Ohio

Searching for the best camping near North Branch Kokosing River Lake, OH? North Branch Kokosing River Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near North Branch Kokosing River Lake, OH. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

North Branch Kokosing River Lake

The Best Camping Near North Branch Kokosing River Lake, Ohio

Are you in need of a campground near Dillon Lake, OH? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Dillon Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Dillon Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Dillon Lake

The Best Camping Near Dillon Lake, Ohio

Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping in Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, Ohio

Top Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir Campgrounds

Cj Brown Dam and Reservoir - Dam Site (Oh)

John Bryan State Park

Kiser Lake State Park

Caesar Creek State Park

Deer Creek State Park

Dayton KOA

St. Mary's Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 6-7)

Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks)

Scioto-Grove Metro Park

Indian Lake State Park

Browse By Type

Browse Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir Boat-In

Cj Brown Dam and Reservoir - Dam Site (Oh)

John Bryan State Park

Kiser Lake State Park

Browse Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir Drive-In

Cj Brown Dam and Reservoir - Dam Site (Oh)

John Bryan State Park

Kiser Lake State Park

Browse Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir Hike-In

Cj Brown Dam and Reservoir - Dam Site (Oh)

John Bryan State Park

Kiser Lake State Park

Browse Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir Walk-In

Cj Brown Dam and Reservoir - Dam Site (Oh)

John Bryan State Park

Kiser Lake State Park

Get the App

See What We’re Up To