The Hollansburg area features relatively flat terrain with elevations around 1,100 feet above sea level, creating accessible camping conditions throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with higher humidity levels making water access points particularly valuable. Winter camping is available at several locations, though facilities may be limited during colder months.
What to do
Hiking diverse terrain: Five Rivers Metroparks offers challenging trails for hikers of varying skill levels. One camper mentioned the Twin Valley Trail has "a variety of ravines" and "while you might think this is small park it actually covers around 2,000 acres" with "more than 25 miles" of connected trails.
Fishing without licenses: Possum Creek Metro Park provides multiple fishing options that don't require permits. A visitor noted, "This site includes access to hiking trails, nearby sustainable farm and demonstration gardens, as well as fishing in both the lake and fishing ponds (no license required)."
Disc golf courses: Recreational activities beyond hiking are available at several parks. Sycamore State Park Campground features "a great disc golf course, really nice trails to hike with challenging hills and nice areas with shelters for grilling and parties and such."
Historical exploration: Some camping areas contain remnants of previous developments. At Possum Creek, 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."
What campers like
Accessibility for new backpackers: The Twin Valley Trail system is rated highly for newcomers to backpacking. A reviewer shared it's "a lovely backpacking trail that is both challenging while not being too hard for new backpackers." The trail features amenities like "a common cooking area between the backpacking sites" with "logs to sit on and cooking surface."
Clean facilities: Narrows Reserve earns praise for its well-maintained amenities. One camper reported, "The trail was very well traveled and very well maintained. It was a super easy hike in for the 1.25 miles."
Shelter options: For those wanting to camp without a tent, St. Mary's Section - Buckeye Trail offers alternative sleeping arrangements. A camper explained, "This Adirondack shelter, located between Points 6 and 7 on the St. Mary's Section of the Buckeye Trail, is perfect for you. Built as an Eagle Scout project by Parker and Keaton Cole of Troop 95 (in Sidney), it is large enough for six or to sleep comfortably off the ground."
Waterfront camping: Multiple locations offer river access for cooling off during summer months. At Jacoby Road Canoe Launch, a visitor praised the "Beautiful spot for tent camping right next to the Little Miami River. Picnic tables and fire pit are also nice amenities."
What you should know
Water availability: Most tent camping near Hollansburg requires bringing your own water supplies. A reviewer at Jacoby Road Canoe Launch noted, "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 systems: Different parks use different booking processes with varying fees. For Jacoby Road, "The reservation service fee was very reasonable and is less than what ODNR charges for their online reservations. The service fee was $1.33 and you cannot have more than 10 folks at a campsite."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options exist but with limited facilities. For best tent camping near Hollansburg, Ohio during summer, riverside sites are recommended for heat relief but expect more weekend visitors at water access points.
Road proximity: Some otherwise peaceful sites can experience road noise. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Possum Creek Metro Park combines camping with learning experiences. A camper highlighted, "In addition to the lake, they also had a farm on the property that was enjoyable for the kids to see the animals. You can hear some of the animals but we enjoyed this aspect."
Rental equipment: For families wanting to try camping without investing in gear, Five Rivers Metroparks offers affordable rentals. A visitor explained, "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."
Family-friendly trails: Multiple parks feature trails suited for younger hikers. At Possum Creek, a camper 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."
COVID-friendly spacing: Several parks provide good separation between sites. One Five Rivers Metropark user noted during the pandemic, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds in the area have some limitations for larger vehicles. At Quakertown State Rec Area, a camper noted the "Average sized campground sites" and that "A'll sites gave fire rings. Some of the picnic tables are small."
Dump station availability: Only select campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities. Quakertown State Recreation Area offers a sanitary dump station, making it a practical stop for RVers needing to service their tanks while exploring the best tent camping near Hollansburg, Ohio area.
Shade coverage: When choosing sites during summer months, consider tree coverage. A Quakertown visitor mentioned, "There's a good amount of trees for shade coverage," which can be critical for comfortable RV camping during hot Ohio summers.
