Best Tent Camping near Columbus Grove, OH
Tent campsites near Columbus Grove, Ohio include several established options within driving distance, with White Oak Campground and Independence Dam State Park offering dedicated tent sites. Both locations provide basic amenities for primitive tent camping, though neither is directly in Columbus Grove itself. White Oak Campground features seven individual tent sites set on sandy, level ground with good spacing between campers.
Most tent campgrounds in the region provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to toilets. White Oak Campground offers flush toilets, free firewood, and a dish washing station with hot water, making it particularly appealing for tent campers. Independence Dam State Park features tent sites along the Maumee River with vault toilets that campers note are well-maintained. Both locations allow reservations, though walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability. Sites at White Oak are set on sand pads suitable for tent setup, while Independence Dam has some sites on paved pads and others on natural ground.
The tent camping experience in the area offers access to hiking trails and natural features. White Oak Campground connects directly to the 15.5-mile Scout Trail loop in Oak Openings Preserve, allowing campers to hike directly from their sites. Sites typically feature good tree coverage for shade during summer months. According to one visitor, "The sites are very nicely spaced and shaded, and not right on the parking lot." At Independence Dam, tent campers can enjoy riverside camping with opportunities for kayaking and fishing. A camper noted that "The paved path that goes along the camping sites is very nice and makes for a great walk or bike ride." Road noise can be a factor at some locations, with Independence Dam campsites situated within 50-100 yards of a two-lane road.
