Tent camping options near Medway, Ohio span across Greene County and Montgomery County, primarily within the Five Rivers Metroparks system and surrounding natural areas. The region features a mix of prairie landscapes and wooded river valleys with elevation changes of 100-300 feet throughout camping areas. Many sites experience seasonal flooding along the Little Miami River watershed, particularly during spring rains, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking challenges: Twin Valley Trail in Dayton Metro Parks (Five Rivers Metroparks) offers rugged terrain for backpackers. "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 on the TVT challenge, beautiful hike through hilly terrain, and great spots of overlooks."
Explore local history: The surrounding areas contain remnants of former attractions. At Possum Creek Metro Park, campers can discover "old abandoned items such as a pool and street car in the woods. The land has an interesting history you will want to explore."
Water recreation: Greene County Jacoby Road Canoe Launch provides direct river access. "This site was so low key and didn't have a lot of people. We saw a few cars and trucks during our weekend as it is a canoe launch. Locals also will stop here to hike and avoid the crowds in town."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots exist throughout the region's parks and waterways. Constitution County Park offers "a small ramp into the river. It's the perfect launching point for anyone wanting to take a kayaking trip down the river."
What campers like
Firewood provisions: Possum Creek Metro park (Five Rivers Dayton Metro Park) provides complimentary firewood with campsite reservations. "They provide a bundle of firewood for each night that you have reserved the site. In addition, you can easily purchase more wood that will be right there at the site for you."
Privacy between sites: Twin Creek Metro Park offers well-separated camping areas. "Even then they are out of side from each other. You can somewhat hear the other two camp sites (rarely). This meant with two little ones we wouldn't have to constantly remind them to socially distance or put on masks."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several camping areas provide good wildlife observation chances. At On Cedar Pond, one camper simply stated, "The stay was amazing! So beautiful."
Clean facilities: Vault toilets and other basic amenities receive regular maintenance. "The vault toilets are one of the best as they are always clean. We have hand sanitizer and toilet paper. We didn't have to share our vault toilet with any other family units."
What you should know
Walk-in distance requirements: Some sites require significant hiking from parking areas. At Narrows Reserve, "Camp was in a meadow at the end of about an hour walk in. Literally campsite is on top of trails and meadow provides no shade."
Water availability limitations: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. For Twin Valley Trail backpacking, you should "bring your pack and hiking poles and take advantage of trekking into the forest. Vault toliet, away from busy/crowded campsites and surrounded by nature. Access to a river for water source (bring your filter system)."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit close to roads. At Constitution County Park, "The road is extremely near and you can hear every car driving by. The fall chill by the fire is nice but it's way to open for my taste. Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot."
Seasonal crowds: Popular areas experience varying traffic levels. "Tons of traffic with Bird watchers and joggers. 8 to 8 seemed quite other than a dog that came barking through meadow in middle of the night."
Tips for camping with families
Rental equipment options: First-time campers can utilize equipment rental programs. "If you do not have camping gear but still want to get out and try it then you can rent it from them. A set of 6 is $50.00 for the weekend. This includes the tent, sleeping pads, and sleeping bag."
Educational farm visits: Sycamore State Park Campground offers nearby attractions beyond camping. "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. Also includes playground and pond for kids to fish in."
Multiple table options: Some sites provide extra picnic tables for family activities. "The nice thing about their site is the additional tables made it easy for us to socially distance. When I camp at local state parks and we only have one table it can be tricky to keep coolers, food, and people separated. We also were able to have kids do craft at one of the tables while we were preparing meals."
Swimming spots: Look for river access points for cooling off. "Along the trail there were spots where you could jump in the river and even a rope swing. I didn't bring my swim trunks, but I wish I had!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Medway, Ohio generally offers few full-hookup RV sites. At Constitution County Park, "The park is a very small park running along the little Miami river, but that doesn't make it bad. Its literally right beside the river and it has a small ramp into the river."
Alternative locations: Some parks offer both tent and limited RV camping. "This walk-in campsite is located near Argonne Lake parking lot. It features access to hiking trails, nearby sustainable farm and demonstration gardens, as well as fishing in both the lake and fishing ponds(no license required)."
Multi-day considerations: RV campers should plan for primitive conditions at most locations. "No running water, electricity, or other perks such as being able to buy ice at the campground. You are close enough that you can run into town to stock up on more ice and items."
