The Cincinnati region hosts several campgrounds within a 20-mile radius of Montgomery, Ohio, where elevations range from 500-900 feet above sea level. The Little Miami River watershed creates diverse camping options throughout these rolling hills. While traditional tent and RV camping dominates the area, limited yurt camping near Montgomery, Ohio has emerged as an alternative option at select locations during warmer months.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Riverside and Little Miami access make Morgan's Canoe and Outdoor Adventure popular for water activities. "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," notes Carolyn M.
Paved trail biking: The Little Miami Bike Trail connects to several campgrounds. "Close to the Little Miami Bike Trail this was easy to walk on with my friend and her two little ones. The trail was paved which was a huge help for those of us who were extra short and didn't always attend to their surroundings when walking," mentions a Kenpocentaur K. about Morgan's cabins.
Disc golf course: Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers an 18-hole course perfect for beginners. "A short 18 hole Disc Golf course is close by. It is an easy course great for beginners," shares Dan G., who appreciated the variety of recreational options during his stay.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: For those seeking yurt-style camping near Montgomery, Ohio without the structures, Stonelick State Park Campground offers more natural settings. "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," shares Jess H.
Clean shower facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathrooms are a quick walk and very clean. The showers and park are a small walk but also super nice," notes Anne H. about Winton Woods Campground Hamilton County Park.
Spacious RV plots: Sites often exceed standard commercial campground sizes. "We stayed in Site 78. 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," explains Kim H. about her experience at Cowan Lake.
What you should know
Site reservations fill quickly: Most campgrounds require advance booking. "Get your ideal site early during busy season," advises Kenneth D. about Winton Woods. Weekend spots often book 2-3 months in advance.
Varying shade levels: Tree coverage differs significantly between campgrounds and within individual sites. "Nice campground, for a county Park. Full-hookups have little to no shade. Sites are pretty close together and small, but standard for a county Park. The electric sites are nice. Reasonable amount of shade in most," shares Mike H. about Winton Woods.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Morgan's Riverside Campground & Cabins and similar river-adjacent properties can experience water level changes. "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," reports Amanda S.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds within walking distance: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly amenities. "There is a playground for children, and a camp store that sells firewood and supplies. The park also allows for horseback riding, and a small water park for children in the summer," mentions Anne H. about Winton Woods.
Cabin options for beginners: For families testing camping without full commitment, several options exist beyond typical yurt camping around Montgomery, Ohio. "Our campsite 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," says Jess H. about Stonelick State Park.
Multiple swimming options: Hueston Woods State Park Campground offers beach access for children. "We love Hueston Woods! We have been there twice now and tent camp. The beach is a short distance away and love that they also include a dog swimming area," says Maddy B.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for varied terrain at most sites. "We camped at site 35 and it was very slopey, our levelers only helped a little," cautions Kara S. about Stonelick State Park.
Full hookup availability: Access to utilities varies by campground and section. "This is a great county park! It has a nice 'campground' feel set in a large pine trees and wide sites but has 50-amp full hook-up sites," notes Nancy W. about Winton Woods.
Variable cell coverage: Mobile signal strength fluctuates throughout the region. "Internet here on t-mobile 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," reports Johnothan R. about his experience at Cowan Lake.
