The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Clayton, OH

574 Reviews

Camping near Clayton, Ohio encompasses a mix of state parks, metropolitan parks, and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of the city. The area features several established campgrounds including Dayton KOA Holiday in Brookville with 223 sites, and the more natural settings of Five Rivers Metroparks system. John Bryan State Park Campground in Yellow Springs offers year-round camping with access to hiking and mountain biking trails, while Sycamore State Park provides a quieter alternative closer to Clayton. Many campsites in the region provide access to lakes and water recreation, making them popular destinations during summer months.

Most campgrounds in the Clayton area are accessible via paved roads and remain open from April through November, with select sites like John Bryan State Park and Caesar Creek State Park operating year-round. Fall is widely considered the optimal camping season in this part of Ohio, with comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays during peak summer months and special October Halloween events that fill campgrounds quickly. Fire restrictions are minimal, though campers should note that alcohol policies vary by park, with some state and metro parks prohibiting alcohol consumption.

The camping options around Clayton accommodate various preferences and equipment needs. RV campers will find full hookup sites at Dayton KOA and Wright-Patterson FamCamp, while tent campers have primitive options at Five Rivers Metroparks locations like Possum Creek. According to reviews, Five Rivers Metroparks provides exceptional value with included firewood bundles and attentive ranger service. One visitor noted, "The ranger checked in on me and also let me know he was closing the gate to the park. I had his contact information and felt safe and secure while camping here." Family-friendly amenities are common, with many parks offering playgrounds, fishing opportunities, and hiking trails. Mountain biking enthusiasts particularly appreciate John Bryan State Park for its 12 miles of well-maintained trails suitable for all skill levels.

Map showing campgrounds near Clayton, OhioExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Clayton, Ohio (102)

    1. Dayton KOA Holiday

    21 Reviews
    Brookville, OH
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 833-3888

    "They have a short path in the woods which is a nice little loop. Great location with lots to do!"

    "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."

    2. John Bryan State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Yellow Springs, OH
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 767-1274

    "The campsite is next to the 12 mile set of mountain bike trails.  It is a great mountain biking/camping getaway.  The trails are easy, so for all levels.  Nice camping for families.  "

    "Great place to visit has three parks in one John Bryant and Glen Helen nature preserve and Clifton Gorge are some of the best hiking trails in south west Ohio."

    3. Sycamore State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Brookville, OH
    6 miles
    Website

    "This park has such a variety of things to do. there’s a great disc golf course, really nice trails to hike with challenging hills and nice areas with shelters for grilling and parties and such."

    4. Caesar Creek State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Arkansas River - Pool 5, OH
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 488-4595

    $17 - $75 / night

    "There is a little store, but note that the firewood is in huge, unburnable pieces, (as most Ohio state park firewood is), so you'll need tons of kindling and several firestarters, or an ax and some way"

    "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!"

    5. Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks)

    8 Reviews
    Germantown, OH
    18 miles
    Website

    $15 - $28 / night

    "This meant with two little ones we wouldn't have to constantly remind them to socially distance or put on masks.  We were alone but had plenty of park supports."

    "There's a great backpacking trail that's challenging and an easy middle meeting place for friends/family from Columbus and Cincinnati that can meet in Dayton Metroparks/Five Rivers - Germantown and take"

    6. Hueston Woods State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    College Corner, OH
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (513) 523-6347

    "This camp ground is pretty standard for Ohio State Parks. It does have a cool new sleeping option. Yurts! We enjoyed our time in the yurt. "

    "It is one of the better beaches for Ohio State Parks in the southern part of the state.  We bought a day pass to the pool at the lodge."

    7. Possum Creek Metro park (Five Rivers Dayton Metro Park)

    1 Review
    Liberty, OH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 275-7275

    $15 / night

    "I spent my time at Argonne Lake but you will notice folks fishing at that lake and the other smaller lakes onsite. "

    8. Buck Creek State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Clarence J. Brown Dam and Reservoir, OH
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 322-5284

    $23 - $35 / night

    "A well manicured campground just outside Dayton, easy to get to, back in pavement site with 30A electric, picnic table and fire pit. Plenty of potable water spigots around, just not at the site."

    "I did not spend enough time here to give a thorough review, but what I will say is that this site is nice if you need a campsite for a couple nights while passing through Ohio."

    9. On Cedar Pond

    1 Review
    Tipp City, OH
    14 miles
    +1 (937) 825-2626

    $45 - $50 / night

    10. Wright-Patterson FamCamp

    1 Review
    Medway, OH
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 271-2535

    "If you are retired or active duty military, you have access to recreation sites maintained adjacent to many bases."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 102 campgrounds

Recent Camping Photos near Clayton, OH

178 Photos of 102 Clayton Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Clayton, OH

574 Reviews of 102 Clayton Campgrounds

Guide to Clayton

Camping near Clayton, Ohio, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there’s something for everyone in this area.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic trails at Hueston Woods State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “It’s very clean and huge. Lots to do.” The park features lush greenery and beautiful landscapes perfect for a leisurely hike.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Buck Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A camper noted, “Large park with a marina, archery range, disc golf and more. Trails to lake covered with shade.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Cowan Lake State Park Campground is great for spotting local wildlife. One reviewer shared, “Great hiking trails and people are friendly,” making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Caesar Creek State Park Campground said, “The showers are clean and the staff is friendly. Camp sites are spacious.”
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at East Fork State Park Campground. One review highlighted, “Neighbors weren’t sitting on top of one another. There was a tree for shade and plenty of space.”
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Winton Woods Campground are known for their welcoming vibe. A camper mentioned, “Friendly staff, level sites, surrounded by woods and water.”

What you should know:

  • Reservation System: Some campgrounds, like Indian Lake State Park Campground, have a tricky online reservation system. One camper noted, “The online reservation system is clumsy to use at best.”
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise, especially during busy weekends. A visitor at Deer Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “The beach was trashed... it was busy & loud like you'd expect.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Raccoons can be a nuisance at some sites, like John Bryan State Park Campground. One camper warned, “The sheer number and boldness of raccoons... freaked the kids and new campers out.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like playgrounds and clean restrooms. Cowan Lake State Park Campground has a playground nearby, making it a hit with families.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep kids entertained. A camper at Stonelick State Park Campground mentioned, “Had a wonderful time... Would have enjoyed renting a canoe.”
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep the kids happy with plenty of snacks. One visitor at Hueston Woods State Park Campground noted, “The park has great recreational activities.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Lengths: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Caesar Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “The full hookup sites are a bit smaller.”
  • Utilize Dump Stations: Many campgrounds, like Buck Creek State Park Campground, have convenient dump stations. A camper noted, “Dump station is conveniently located in the center loop.”
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get loud, especially on weekends. A visitor at Indian Lake State Park Campground said, “No one seemed to care about the 10 pm quiet time.”

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Clayton, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clayton, OH is Dayton KOA Holiday with a 4.2-star rating from 21 reviews.

What parks are near Clayton, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Clayton, OH that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

Keep Exploring