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Best Tent Camping near Elyria, OH

473 Reviews

Tent camping options near Elyria, Ohio include both established campgrounds and primitive sites scattered throughout public lands. Tent-specific campgrounds in the region include Heritage Farms, offering tent-only sites within a Christmas tree farm, and Hidden Hollow Camp, which maintains dedicated tent camping areas. Most tent sites are located within 30-45 minutes of Elyria, with several options in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and surrounding metro parks.

Many tent camping locations require campers to carry gear from parking areas to their sites. Heritage Farms provides wagons to transport equipment, with walks ranging from a few yards to several hundred feet depending on the site location. Portable toilets or vault toilets are common at established tent campgrounds, though some primitive sites have no restroom facilities. Fire rings are typically provided at designated tent sites, with firewood available for purchase at locations like Heritage Farms. A recent review noted, "You park near the front of the campgrounds to check in, and then you are provided wagons to carry your gear to your site." Most tent-only sites do not offer drinking water, so campers should bring sufficient supplies.

Walk-in tent sites offer more seclusion than typical campgrounds. Several locations feature tent pads raised above ground level to prevent water pooling during rain. The West Woods provides walk-in tent sites approximately a quarter mile from parking areas, offering a more immersive forest experience. One camper shared that their site was "situated slightly lower than trail level for privacy" with "amazing sounds, smells, and relaxation." Big Bend Trailhead offers free primitive tent camping for hikers and cyclists with space for 5-6 small tents, though no picnic tables or fire rings are provided. Most tent-specific sites have tree cover providing shade, though the amount varies by location. Tent campers frequently encounter wildlife, with birds being especially abundant at forested camping locations.

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Best Tent Sites Near Elyria, Ohio (14)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Elyria, OH

21 Photos of 14 Elyria Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Elyria, OH

473 Reviews of 14 Elyria Campgrounds

  • Jen L.
    Aug. 23, 2018

    The West Woods

    Newer isn't always better

    There are 2 sites in the park both of which are walk in only and not close together. They are relatively small, 2-4 person tent only. Run by the Geauga Park District and only $5 for county residents, its cheap and looks it. Reservations must be made 3 days in advance, so no spur of the moment get aways. Basically it was just a space for a tent and a fire ring. No bathroom (about a half mile of trail away), no water, no picnic table, no alcohol. Basically I got the urge to camp in the early spring and wanted somewhere near home but I wouldn't stay there again, and wouldn't recommend anyone else do so either. However, the West Woods as a park is really nice with a nature center, hiking and bridle trails, just the campsite that was lacking.

  • W
    Jun. 10, 2022

    Rivers Edge Camping Area (Bridgeport Quarry Trailhead)

    Great location

    Great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit. Portable toilet in parking lot. No running water but close to gas stations and restaurants. Only 12 minute drive over to Pro Football Hall of Fame.

  • R
    May. 3, 2021

    South Bass Island State Park Campground

    Perfect Ohio Oasis

    We camp here at the beginning and end of the season where the bars are less crowded and the campground isn’t as booked.

    These lakeside campsites are stunning and even the one tucked further into the park have a lot of options too. From open areas where it would be fun to book a couple sites with friends, and some secluded for more privacy.

    We always stay lakeside because you cannot beat the view! We’ve stayed 103 and 114!

    One hint: be we are on the cliffs of Lake Erie, some sites you might have to hunt for soft ground to stake your tent.

  • Greg A.
    Jun. 5, 2018

    Punderson State Park Campground

    Meh.

    It could be an ok place if you get the right spot. Some of the sites are VERY SLOPED and some people parked campers in those spots and used very odd things to try and level them. The sites are not maintained well and have lots of weeds and some are very close and are essentially sharing the space with the fire ring and picnic table with other campers. Not very private at all. If you have awnings or slides, you will have to be careful about what site you will get or you will not be able to open the slides or your awning. If you get a good spot or are tent camping then it may be ok.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2018

    Heritage Farms

    Great for cyclists along the Towpath in Cuyahoga National Park

    Located about ½ mile off the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, this campground is a part of a 5th generation working farm.  Both standard campsites and shelters are available and are scattered among a working Christmas Tree farm.   A very sweet couple owns the place and runs the campground, George & Carol Haramis.

    Each site is situated on grass, has a picnic table, and fire ring (firewood is supplied with your campsite fee).  Both pit toilets and water are available to campers as well. Some are shaded and other sites have quite a bit of sun.  The shelters are robustly constructed, but don’t have much cross ventilation as they are only open to the front, so are quite hot in the heat of the summer, and provide no barrier to insects.  No electricity is available. Come prepared to hang your food (not for bears, but for mice).

    They prefer reservations, but happily accommodated our reservation-less lifestyle as it was early in the season.  Our shelter site was just next to the gravel parking area and overlooked the farm as well as had a great view of the sunset.  Unfortunately, you can hear the highway from the campground, despite the fact that it is located a good distance away. It didn’t bother us at night, but we definitely heard it first thing in the morning.

    Just down the road in the village of Peninsula, OH (and right next to the towpath) are Century Cycles (super helpful bike shop!!) and the Winking Lizard Tavern (fun restaurant/bar). After a long day of cycling, we enjoyed an adult beverage and some dessert after making dinner in the campground.

    More info here:  https://centurycycles.com/articles/camping-along-the-towpath-trail-pg1342.htm

  • Skooma M.
    Jun. 24, 2022

    Findley State Park Campground

    Organized Group Site 2

    It was difficult to find pictures or reviews of the Findlay group sites. It honestly seemed to me that they didn't exist, so I thought I'd do the service of taking some pictures.

    The group sites are away from the main campsites, so you should have plenty of space for your group to set up and enough distance between them to not disturb the peace if you have a large group. OGA2 is heavily forested, I'm not sure about OGA1. There are plenty of trees so both hammock and tent campers should be accommodated. The fire pit is large and there are 4 picnic tables.

    The campsite is about 75 yards from the parking area, and there is a vault toilet right before the parking area.

  • Brady R.
    Jun. 3, 2021

    Heritage Farms

    Available Through HipCamp

    Review for Site #12. 

    Our site was in the middle of the sites, but upon on a slight hill. Privacy wasn't fully there like many other sites. No tree coverage, so be cautious in summertime heat. That being said, there was a two-open-sided A frame. It was great to store our belongings in there, esp. when it rained overnight - kept everything dry (with the help of a tarp).

    It's hard to not give it any lower than 5 stars when you literally camp within a Christmas tree farm. It's a dream. Lol. 

    You do have to carry your belongings into the campsites, but it wasn't too horrible for us, esp. since our campsite was right off the walking path. The provided wagons and wheelbarrows make it easier too. 

    Firewood is $8 a bundle and required to pay via PayPal. Water is also available for purchase, but we brought our own. 

    2 portopots were provided and were mostly clean. All sites come with fire pit and picnic table. Some of them have tree coverage and access to hang hammocks.

    Sunset was incredible the first night. It did get very chilly when we were there.

  • K
    Aug. 20, 2020

    Findley State Park Campground

    Clean and great hiking

    Findley state park is well maintained large park! We can easily get lost on 3 mile hikes in the woods and still be on marked paths! The roads are paved and excellent for biking and skating. About half the sites are for tent or dry camping. Half have electric and a few of those have full hookups. We have enjoyed the shade at our site this week and the space between us and our neighbors.

    Shower houses are clean. Canoes and kayaks are available for renting. Many musicians set up camp and would jam out for some live evening music! Everyone was so nice at the campground. We enjoyed our stay.

  • Victoria B.
    Jun. 5, 2020

    South Bass Island State Park Campground

    Camping on the cliff—a great get-away

    I recently camped here at South Bass Island State Park. Because of current Covid-19 restrictions, the campground was pretty empty (which I hear is very unusual for summertime). I camped in a tent-only site on the edge of the 25 foot cliff. Great for adults, but no safety barrier for young children.  Campsite #97 and#99 have fire rings right on the cliff. (I camped at #99.)

    The facilities at the campground are clean and well maintained and the people who work at the camp store are friendly.

    The campground is well shaded with mature trees throughout and it over looks Lake Erie to the West making for great views of the sunset. Some sites are right on top of each other and others are well spread out.

Guide to Elyria

Tent camping near Elyria, Ohio, offers a variety of scenic spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With options ranging from well-equipped facilities to rustic settings, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers should check out Hidden Hollow Camp

  • This campground features a large clubhouse with kitchen facilities, making it ideal for group camping experiences.
  • Located in Lodi, it provides access to drinking water and reservable sites, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • The vault toilets are well-maintained, adding to the overall convenience for campers.

Some prices for tent camping range from $35 to $0

  • At Heritage Farms, the cost is around $35 per night, offering a unique experience within a Christmas tree farm.
  • For those seeking a free option, Big Bend Trailhead Primitive Camping provides accessible sites just off the Towpath/Buckeye Trail.
  • Franklin Trailhead also offers free camping, perfect for hikers and cyclists looking for a quick stop.

Local attractions near Cuyahoga Valley National Park

  • Campers at Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and hiking trails in the area.
  • The proximity to Cuyahoga Valley National Park allows for easy access to stunning views and outdoor activities.
  • Visitors to Shawnee Lake Park can explore the serene lake and surrounding nature, perfect for a day of fishing or picnicking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Elyria, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Elyria, OH is Heritage Farms with a 4.6-star rating from 10 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Elyria, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 14 tent camping locations near Elyria, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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