Tent campsites near Germantown, Ohio cluster along the Little Miami River watershed, offering a mix of riparian environments within the Five Rivers MetroParks system. Located at approximately 800 feet elevation, the region features limestone bluffs and creek valleys, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Primitive camping opportunities extend beyond the established parks into Greene County facilities, where campers can pitch tents along waterways.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Constitution County Park provides access to the Little Miami River with dedicated camping areas. One camper noted, "It's literally right beside the river and it has a small ramp into the river. It's the perfect launching point for anyone wanting to take a kayaking trip down the river."
Sustainable farm exploration: At Possum Creek Metro park, campers can visit educational agricultural sites. "For those that need something interesting to look at you will find old abandoned items such as a pool and street car in the woods. The land has an interesting history you will want to explore," shared one visitor who appreciated the property's past.
Disc golf outings: Sycamore State Park Campground offers recreational facilities beyond camping. A regular visitor mentioned, "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."
What campers like
Bundle of firewood: Five Rivers MetroParks provides complimentary firewood at front-country sites. A camper at Twin Creek explained, "The nice thing about the Dayton metro parks is that each night in the front county camp sites they include a bundle of fire wood. This is not the small sad bundle that you often buy at gas stations or other markets. This is a huge bundle."
Privacy between sites: The spacing between tent sites receives consistent praise. One camper at Dayton Metro Parks noted about Twin Creek, "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."
Multiple picnic tables: Camping areas often provide extra table space. A review mentioned, "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."
What you should know
Water limitations: Most primitive tent sites require bringing your own water. At Jacoby Road Canoe Launch, a camper advised, "It is also important to know that the site does not have electricity or clean drinking water. You will need to bring in the water that you will need for cooking and cleaning during your stay."
Reservation requirements: Greene County camping requires advance booking with specific vehicle information. A camper explained, "When you make your reservation online you will need to know the car make/model, year, and license plate number. This is done for safety reasons and to ensure cars are parked in the appropriate locations."
Trail connections: The region offers interconnected hiking opportunities. One backpacker described, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Equipment rental option: Families new to camping can rent gear through Five Rivers MetroParks. A camper shared, "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."
Farm animal viewing: Children enjoy the educational farms in the area. One visitor to Narrows Reserve commented, "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!"
Historic exploration: Kids can discover remnants of past structures. A review mentioned, "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
Limited RV options: Tent camping dominates the area with few full-hookup sites. At Sycamore State Park Campground, campers note that while there are water and electric hookups available, the sites are not designed for big rigs, and driving conditions can be challenging on narrow park roads.
Shared cooking spaces: Some backcountry sites in Dayton Metro Parks feature common cooking areas between individual tent sites. This setup works well for small RV groups who want to camp together with tent-using friends, providing a central gathering spot.
Pull-through accessibility: Many camping areas lack designated RV pull-through sites. Constitution County Park's proximity to the road means easier access but less privacy, with one camper noting, "Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot."
