Camping spots near Goshen, Ohio extend across rolling countryside with elevations ranging from 500-800 feet above sea level. The region lies in a temperate zone with four distinct seasons, typically offering warm summers with highs in the 80s and moderate rainfall throughout camping season. Many campgrounds in the area offer a combination of wooded and open sites, with varying levels of hookups and amenities.
What to do
Biking on nearby trails: Several campgrounds provide access to the Little Miami Scenic Trail. Olive Branch Campground sits just three miles from a trailhead. "There is a nice walking trail through the woods, a small pool, playground, and a pond for fishing... The campground was only about three miles from a trailhead on the Little Miami Scenic Trail," notes one visitor to Olive Branch Campground.
Fossil hunting: Permits are available at Caesar Creek State Park for this unique activity. "Great place to hike to a cool bridge and waterfall. We also went to a nearby pioneer village. We even got a permit to collect fossils. Great visitor centers too," shared a camper at Caesar Creek State Park Campground.
Canoe and kayak rentals: Morgan's Canoe and Outdoor Adventure offers various trip lengths on the Little Miami River. "Morgan's is amazing! They have been around for a few generations and provide canoeing, rafting, and kayaking at different trip lengths for a great price. There are plenty of spots along the beautiful Little Miami River Valley to pull your canoe off to the side and sit and hang out."
What campers like
Large, well-spaced campsites: Campers appreciate the roominess at many area campgrounds. At Cowan Lake State Park Campground, one visitor noted, "The lot was VERY large and well maintained. The asphalt pad was decently level; a picnic table and fire ring were included. There was significant variety in the types of sites: some were quite wooded while others were full sun."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses are a highlight. A camper at Winton Woods Campground shared, "Bathhouses were very clean. Entrance was gated. Nice campstore." Another review stated, "The bathrooms were decent. They weren't new; however, they were very clean."
Helpful staff: Many campgrounds in the area receive praise for service. "The staff are amazing," noted a visitor to Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA. Another camper mentioned, "We stayed in early May, which is usually when they do their Triathlon. The Army Corps of Engineers decided to let water out of the dam up river, so it was flooded for a couple days but the campsites are sooo large and spread out from each other, at least in the back, we had fun no matter."
What you should know
Reservations essential: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and holiday weekends. A visitor to Cowan Lake noted, "The campground was filled with parents and kids riding bikes, playing, and having fun. Nobody was out of control or obnoxious."
Varied shade coverage: Some campgrounds have limited tree coverage. "Nice campground but not alot of trees," reported a Caesar Creek camper. At Winton Woods, a visitor mentioned, "Our only complaint would be no shade at the section we were in."
Accessibility concerns: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. At Stonelick State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "We camped at site 35 and it was very slopey, our levelers only helped a little. First night the shower house STUNK but then the next day it smelled fine while our closest bathrooms were out of order."
Seasonal differences: Water quality and activities vary by season. "Despite the rain and the wind we had a great time! Our spot was right next to a small Pollinator trail that lead to the water. My little ones had a blast riding their scooters around the round about," shared a Stonelick camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas and programming. "The nature center offered movies in the evening for guest. The park was very clean and maintained. Trails were well marked and the camp hosts were very friendly," noted a visitor at East Fork State Park Campground.
Safety considerations: Riverside camping requires extra supervision. "We were a little nervous as the cabin is so close the river. This is part of the charm but when you have a 3 year old in your group then it is smart to keep an extra sharp eye on the kiddo as the river is a huge draw," advised a Morgan's Canoe visitor.
Cabin options: Many area campgrounds offer cabin rentals for families wanting an upgrade from tent camping. "The adorable cabin fulfilled my tiny home dreams and camping craving! The cozy cabin had a queen bed, twin bunks and a sofa that made out to a full size sleeper," described a KOA guest.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research site dimensions and levelness before booking. "RV Sites are gravel w electric hookups. close to major highways. staff were friendly," noted a visitor to Winton Woods Campground.
Hookup variations: Available hookups vary significantly between campgrounds. "There are 123 campsites including RV sites, tent pads, and camping cabins. Most RV sites are back-in but there are 12 pull-thru sites. There is a myriad of sites here from 50-amp full hook-up with paved pads and patios to 30-amp gravel sites."
Internet access: Cell service and WiFi quality varies throughout the region. "Internet here on t-moble 5G home is 90Mbps down and 6 to 20Mbps up. Verizon on cellphone, only 10Mbs down, 1-3Mbps up. ATT cellphones are similar to Verizon. Great enough for work or play," reported a Cowan Lake visitor.
