Tent camping sites near Lebanon, Ohio range from secluded backcountry spots to accessible river-adjacent locations, all within a 30-mile radius. Most sites sit at elevations between 800-1,000 feet above sea level, with the Little Miami River watershed providing numerous waterside camping opportunities. The region's mixed deciduous forest creates variable shade conditions across camping areas.
What to do
Kayaking and water access: Constitution County Park provides direct river access with a small ramp for launching watercraft. One camper noted it's "the perfect launching point for anyone wanting to take a kayaking trip down the river" while also mentioning "it has a small ramp into the river."
Hiking opportunities: Sycamore State Park Campground offers multiple trail options though a camper mentions some may be "often over grown and not very challenging." The park also includes "a great disc golf course, really nice trails to hike with challenging hills."
Farm visits: At Possum Creek Metro park, campers can explore the sustainable farm and demonstration gardens. A reviewer highlighted that "the land has an interesting history you will want to explore" and mentioned that "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."
Fishing options: Multiple locations offer fishing opportunities, particularly at Possum Creek where a reviewer noted "folks fishing at that lake and the other smaller lakes onsite" and mentioned that some fishing ponds require no license.
What campers like
Ranger support: Jacoby Road Canoe Launch receives regular ranger visits, making solo campers feel secure. One camper reported, "we did see a park ranger a few times during our visit. The sheriff also drove through at one time. Their presence was visible and a short friendly wave to us."
Camping permit benefits: The Five Rivers Metroparks system provides exceptional value with firewood included. A camper explained: "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 levels: Twin Creek Metro Park campsites offer exceptional seclusion. According to one visitor, the campsites "are out of sight 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."
Equipment rentals: For beginners, some parks offer camping gear rental services. A reviewer at Possum Creek noted: "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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Online reservations for Greene County parks require vehicle information. A camper at Jacoby Road 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."
Water availability: Most campsites require campers to bring their own water. For Narrows Reserve, a camper advised: "I suggest you use [the water fountain] since there isn't one in the meadow, it's 'primitive' after all."
Bathroom facilities: Toilet facilities vary widely from porta-johns to vault toilets. A camper at Possum Creek mentioned "the bathroom is simply a porta john. It is the accessible one and was fairly clean while I was at the site."
Trail difficulty: The Twin Valley Trail system offers more challenging terrain. One hiker described it as "a great backpacking trail that is both challenging while not being too hard for new backpackers" and noted that it "covers around 2,000 acres."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple tables: Some sites feature extra picnic tables, making family meals easier. A camper at Twin Creek noted "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."
Kid-friendly trails: Germantown MetroPark offers trails with interesting features to keep children engaged. One parent 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."
Farm animals: Possum Creek Metro Park maintains a small farm that children enjoy. A parent reported "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."
Site selection: For families with small children, choosing sites away from water features can be safer. One camper mentioned, "We picked the site further away from the lake as we had little ones. We were still close enough so we could easily walk to the lake."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Traditional RV hookups are scarce near Lebanon. Constitution County Park accommodates tent camping only, with one visitor noting it's "perfact if you want to camp alone or with a small party of six" but has no RV facilities.
Tent-focused infrastructure: Most facilities in the area prioritize tent camping with limited RV support. Multiple reviewers mention the lack of RV hookups, with most sites offering no water or electric connections.
Privacy concerns: RV campers should note that some sites offer little visual separation. A visitor to Constitution County Park cautioned it's "way to open for my taste. Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot."
