The Franklin area offers over 2,000 acres of natural woodlands along the Little Miami River watershed and Twin Valley Trail system. Tent camping near Franklin, Ohio combines river access opportunities with varied terrain ranging from prairie meadows to wooded ravines. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with moderate humidity, creating comfortable camping conditions from May through October.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Jacoby Road Canoe Launch provides direct river access for water activities. A camper noted, "Beautiful spot for tent camping right next to the Little Miami River. Picnic tables and fire pit are also nice amenities."
Farm and garden tours: Visit the sustainable farm and demonstration gardens at Possum Creek Metro Park for a different outdoor experience. The park "features access to hiking trails, nearby sustainable farm and demonstration gardens, as well as fishing in both the lake and fishing ponds."
Disc golf course: Enjoy the disc golf course at Sycamore State Park during your camping trip. According to a visitor, "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."
What campers like
Bundled firewood service: Campers appreciate that the firewood comes included with sites at the Metro Parks. One camper shared, "The nice thing about the metro parks camp sites (front country only) is that they provide a bundle of fire wood free each night and you can purchase additional bundles."
Communal cooking areas: Five Rivers Metroparks offers dedicated cooking spaces in backpacking sites. A backpacker mentioned, "They provided a common cooking area between the backpacking sites. Logs to sit on and cooking surface."
River swimming spots: Narrows Reserve has natural swimming options along the trail. A visitor explained, "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!"
What you should know
Hiking distances to primitive sites: Some tent sites require significant walking. At Narrows Reserve, "the primitive campsites were 1.25 miles from the parking lot" with "a super easy hike in," according to one reviewer.
Limited facilities at some locations: Constitution County Park has minimal facilities. A camper mentioned, "The only issue I could see with the park is that it is right beside the road. Like, the furthest point from the road is only 100-200ft."
Water sources and filters: Bring filtration systems for backpacking sites. A backpacker at Twin Valley Trail noted, "We also used the near by river to filter some additional water for our return trip which was nice. No water or fire wood is provided as this is a back country camp site."
Tips for camping with families
Equipment rental options: For families new to camping, rental gear is available. "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: Kids enjoy the animal encounters at Constitution County Park. "The little town across the way is a fun site to see and quiet. There is only one site to camp at, so you won't have to worry about other campers the park is all yours."
Historic trail features: Children find motivation on trails with interesting landmarks. One camper shared, "Interesting trails here from Prairie land and to a forest with former amusement park remains. Lots to see to motivate short legs to keep hiking."
Tips from RVers
Spacing between RV sites: Most Metro Parks offer good separation between sites. A camper at Twin Creek noted, "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."
Parking accommodations: Group campsites have adequate parking for multiple vehicles. "Paved parking lot for the larger groups which is nice. Near by within walking distance a lake, amphitheater, and more as this was once a boy scout camp ground. Capacity is 25 individuals and ample parking."
RV site privacy levels: The Metro Parks system provides more private camping than standard campgrounds. As one camper described, "I still find this to be one of the best values for camping in Ohio. Especially, when you consider the level of privacy that you have on these sites."
