Best Campgrounds near Defiance, OH

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites across its vast wilderness areas. Established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park provide amenities for tent and RV campers, while many areas also offer cabin options. The region includes both coastal sites with ocean views and inland locations near lakes, rivers, and glaciers, giving campers access to Alaska's signature landscapes.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Many campgrounds require reservations during peak summer months when tourism is highest. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and mosquitoes are a common concern during warmer months. Visitors should prepare for variable conditions regardless of season. A visitor commented, "This is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers. For some reason, this spot is not as in demand as the Russian River campground, despite having many of the same amenities."

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly at locations like Seward City Campgrounds with ocean views and Mendenhall Lake Campground near its namesake glacier. Campgrounds in Chugach State Park offer proximity to Anchorage while providing a wilderness experience. Wildlife viewing opportunities, including bears and beavers, are frequently mentioned in reviews as highlights of the camping experience. Several campgrounds feature hiking trails and fishing access, with salmon runs drawing anglers to sites like Cooper Creek and Quartz Creek. According to one camper, "We really enjoyed camping here. This was our first place we camped in Alaska and it was very clean. It has a beautiful view with the lake right there and the beavers are very active."

Best Camping Sites Near Defiance, Ohio (79)

    1. Independence Dam State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Defiance, OH
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 956-1368

    $18 - $25 / night

    "The paved path that goes along the camping sites is very nice and makes for a great walk or bike ride.  

    We stayed in campsite 16 which has its pros and cons. "

    "Most sites are on a small elevated bank on maumee river, (you can walk down the path but not put a kayak in)

    There are no hookups, only vault toilets, no staff only very nice camp hosts ( there are next"

    2. Woodbrige Campground

    4 Reviews
    Paulding, OH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 399-2267

    "Lake front sites are hard to come by as most were for permanent sites. The beach and swimming area were very nice. Our boys loved the water slide anchored in the lake to play on."

    "Nice pools and small lake with beach. Place was swarming with sweat bees while we were there"

    3. Sauder Village Campground

    8 Reviews
    Archbold, OH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 590-9755

    $30 - $54 / night

    "Really enjoyed this campground for the short amount of time we were in the area visiting family The park and facilities were very clean, sites were well-spaced, there is a nice walking/biking trail, and"

    "We stayed with four kiddos in a tent spot across from a cool plash pad, a little lake to fish in and close to running water."

    4. Harrison Lake State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Fayette, OH
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 237-2593

    "Tucked away in NW Ohio, close to the Michigan & Indiana border

    We were in the north campground. Sites are all level, many very spacious which is unusual for Ohio SPs."

    "It is one of the only state parks in northwest Ohio, a beautiful little spot nestled in farmland of Ohio. The lake is nice for swimming and there are bike rentals which was fun as well."

    5. Powell Creek Campground

    1 Review
    Defiance, OH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 393-2091

    $35 - $40 / night

    6. Blue Water Campground

    3 Reviews
    Grover Hill, OH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 587-3186

    "The pool, ponds, playground and pavillion are all within walking distance from almost any site."

    "Pool, lakes, very dog friendly, activities, food, washer and dryer, showers!"

    7. Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 18-19)

    1 Review
    Grover Hill, OH
    16 miles
    Website

    "You're learning to backpack the Buckeye Trail, and you want to know where and how you can camp along the trail."

    8. Kimpels Hickory Acres

    1 Review
    Montpelier, OH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 658-2267

    "I camped in a tent next to the cabin that my sister rented so I'm not sure about the tent sites that are available."

    9. Pokagon State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Angola, IN
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (260) 833-2012

    $19 - $480 / night

    "There's 2 dump stations located in loops 3 & 4. IN THE CAMPGROUND! NEXT TO CAMPSITES!!!!

     "

    "It's better than Ohio's only National Park!

    Note: the DNR trail maps are inaccurate but well worth your time, so research your trials well or you'll get a bit lost."

    10. Mary Jane Thurston State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Grand Rapids, OH
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 832-7662

    "There are lots of bike trails as the towpath trail goes through the park and it even leads into the little town of Grand Rapids."

    "I just love this park it is out of the way but not to far for supplies and entertainment but the nature trails the play grounds and natural views of this place will be entertaining enough if your a birder"

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Showing results 1-10 of 79 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Defiance, OH

296 Reviews of 79 Defiance Campgrounds



Guide to Defiance

Camping near Defiance, Ohio, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to family-friendly parks, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds during peak times. A visitor at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground warned, "A very hard campsite to navigate and a busy weekend forget about dumping lol you're gonna be there a while."
  • Limited Cell Service: Some areas have poor reception. A camper at Pokagon State Park Campground noted, "The shower & restrooms are atrocious!!!"
  • Reservation Fees: Be prepared for additional costs when booking. A visitor at Indian Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The online reservation system is clumsy to use at best."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for children. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake said, "My son had a blast and said this was the best campground he has ever been to."
  • Safety First: Choose sites that are safe for young kids. One reviewer at Johnny Appleseed Campground mentioned, "The only problem so far has been the water distribution."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Be mindful of noise levels, especially at night. A camper at Indian Lake State Park Campground noted, "No one seemed to care about the 10 pm quiet time."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Pokagon State Park Campground advised, "Some sites are level, some aren't."
  • Bring Long Cords: Electrical hookups can be far from parking spots. A camper at Lake Hudson Recreation Area mentioned, "Make sure you have extension cords!"
  • Dump Station Access: Know where the dump stations are located. A reviewer at Harrison Lake State Park Campground said, "Dump Stations at Park exit have complimentary hoses."

Camping near Defiance, Ohio, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Defiance, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, Defiance, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 79 campgrounds and RV parks near Defiance, OH and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Defiance, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Defiance, OH is Independence Dam State Park Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Defiance, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Defiance, OH.