Tent camping near Cleves, Ohio offers multiple options within a 25-mile radius. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 490 to 900 feet above sea level, creating diverse camping terrain from riverside flats to wooded ridges. Most campgrounds in this tri-state area operate from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Possum Creek Metro Park offers fishing opportunities at Argonne Lake and smaller ponds without requiring a license. A camper notes, "I spent my time at Argonne Lake but you will notice folks fishing at that lake and the other smaller lakes onsite."
Disc golf courses: Sycamore State Park features a popular disc golf course among its recreational options. As one visitor mentions, "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."
Historical exploration: Several camping areas contain remnants of previous land uses. 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."
Hiking varied terrain: The Twin Valley Trail in the Dayton area offers challenging hiking options. One backpacker describes it as "a great backpacking trail that is both challenging while not being too hard for new backpackers" with "a variety of ravines."
What campers like
Riverside views: Morgan's Outdoor Adventures earns praise for its waterfront setting. One camper shares, "We loved the views of Morgan's. Steps away from gorgeous river views. There is nothing like waking up and making breakfast while watching the river roll by!"
Shade coverage: Quakertown State Recreation Area offers good tree coverage for summer camping. A visitor notes, "There's a good amount of trees for shade coverage" and "A'll sites gave fire rings."
Solitude and quiet: The smaller, less crowded campgrounds provide peace away from busier state parks. A camper at Possum Creek Metro Park describes it as "Peace and Quiet at the lake" and "one of my favorite campsites in Ohio."
Included firewood: Dayton Metro Parks provides firewood with camping permits. Campers appreciate that "each night in the front country 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."
What you should know
Varying bathroom facilities: Facilities range widely between locations. At Possum Creek, "The bathroom is simply a porta john. It is the accessible one and was fairly clean while I was at the site. No running water, electricity, or other perks."
Water access limitations: Most tent camping areas require bringing your own water. A camper at Twin Creek Metro Park advises, "No water so be sure to bring your own."
Campsite spacing: Site proximity varies by location. At Morgan's Outdoor Adventures, a reviewer cautions, "Sites are tight, but if you love waterfront this is great."
Camping gear rental options: For campers without equipment, some parks offer rental programs. At Five Rivers Metroparks, "A set of 6 is $50.00 for the weekend. This includes the tent, sleeping pads, and sleeping bag."
Tips for camping with families
Farm visits: Possum Creek Metro Park offers a sustainable farm perfect for children. One camper mentions they "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."
Motivation for young hikers: Parks with interesting features help keep children engaged on trails. A visitor to Possum Creek notes, "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."
Swimming options: During summer months, nearby towns offer day-use swimming facilities. A camper points out that "Germantown also has a community pool as well that you can buy a day pool pass."
Multiple table camping areas: Some sites are designed with extra space for families. A camper at Twin Creek Metro Park appreciated that "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
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping near Cleves has minimal RV infrastructure. Quakertown Campground offers basic accommodations that RVers describe as "Clean and quiet. Average sized campground sites."
Additional fees for amenities: RV campers should budget for add-ons. One camper noted their "Site was a little pricey at $30" for basic amenities.
Parking considerations: For larger vehicles and trailers, check site specifications before booking. At Twin Creek Metro Park, one camper appreciated the "Paved parking lot for the larger groups which is nice."
