Best Campgrounds near Peebles, OH

Campgrounds in the Peebles, Ohio area range from established state parks to family-friendly resorts, with many sites offering access to lakes, forests, and recreational activities. Several developed campgrounds operate within a 30-mile radius, including Pike Lake State Park Campground and Rocky Fork State Park, both offering year-round camping options. Shawnee State Park provides tent camping, RV sites, and cabin accommodations with varying levels of privacy and proximity to water. Long's Retreat Family Resort near Latham offers multiple accommodation types including glamping options alongside traditional camping, making the region suitable for various camping preferences.

The camping season in southern Ohio generally peaks from April through October, with some campgrounds like Rocky Fork and Shawnee State Park remaining open year-round. Most established sites require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. A camper noted, "Autumn is the best time to camp in Ohio," highlighting the seasonal appeal beyond summer months. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with several reviews mentioning Shawnee State Park as "totally without any phone signal." Campground terrain features modest hills and varied elevations, with some tent-only areas requiring campers to carry equipment from parking areas to their sites, as reported at Tar Hollow's North Ridge Campground.

Several campgrounds in the area feature water recreation as a primary attraction. The Ohio River provides scenic backdrops at Sandy Springs Campground, where visitors enjoy watching barges travel along the water. Lake access at Cowan Lake and Rocky Fork State Parks supports fishing, kayaking, and swimming activities during warmer months. Campground density and privacy vary considerably across the region. A reviewer described Tar Hollow's tent sites as "right next to your camping neighbors," while sites at Shawnee State Park were praised for offering "great privacy, despite being fairly close together." Bathroom facilities typically include shower houses at the larger, developed campgrounds, though cleanliness and maintenance conditions vary. Several mixed-use campgrounds accommodate both primitive tent camping and full RV hookups, with some locations offering specialized tent-only areas separated from RV sections.

Best Camping Sites Near Peebles, Ohio (82)

    1. Long's Retreat Family Resort

    13 Reviews
    Sinking Spring, OH
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 588-3725

    "We have been going here for the last 6 summers with a big group (nearly 30 kids with us). Everyone always has such a great time and it is the highlight of all the kids summers."

    2. Shawnee State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Friendship, OH
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 858-6652

    $24 / night

    "Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites.   Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path. "

    "Right on the border of Kentucky, in Ohio, you are in the small town almost South.

    Beautiful countryside, fortunately I was on Rt 125 when I lost all clue where the park entrance was."

    3. Rocky Fork State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Hillsboro, OH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 393-4284

    "The camp grounds we stayed in was nearly full and had every conceivable form of camping from tents to full size motor coaches."

    "Camp sites available next to the lake. Beautiful lake for kayaking, boating and swimming. Only downfall is that you have to drive a few miles to get to the beach."

    4. Sandy Springs Campground

    33 Reviews
    Stout, OH
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 640-7858

    $35 - $125 / night

    "The campground offers something for everyone: playground equipment, basketball hoop and various balls, access to the river for fishing, and absolutely stunning views of the Ohio as well as the surrounding"

    "We actually walked down boat ramp (which they have) and went swimming in the Ohio River! It’s nice to sit outside and watch the river and barges traveling up and down."

    5. Paint Creek State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Paint Creek Lake, OH
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 981-7061

    "Cute, charming Ohio State Park. Enjoy 4 lovely hiking trails that showcase the parks features by taking you through the woods and fields. Fish is offered and their is boat dock ."

    "An excellent disc golf course, hiking and beautiful lake views. Just past the town of Bainbridge, Ohio is Seip Mound to explore and hike the trails."

    6. Pike Lake State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    Latham, OH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 493-2212

    "Ranger Review: Morsel Spork at Pike Lake State Park

    Campground Review:

    We stayed at site 67 next to the camp host. The camp site was nicely shaded with a small creek behind it."

    "The lake is smaller, but nice beach area and pedal boats are fun. We hiked the Greenbriar and CCC Trails. They are not too challenging but beautiful."

    7. East Fork State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Concord, OH
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (513) 734-2730

    $29 - $30 / night

    "This is your standard Ohio State Park campground.  It has the usual parking, water, restrooms, camp store, and activities. 

    East Fork is rather nice as it has the lake and long trails. "

    "Our favorite campsite for the outskirts of Cincinnati. Lots of great spots available! You can get to the lake in about a 15 minute drive."

    8. Lizzy’s Acres

    1 Review
    Bainbridge, OH
    18 miles
    +1 (740) 438-2678

    $25 - $35 / night

    "Lizzy's Acres is a new listing on the Dyrt, but they offer a great location for those looking to explore the area.  Check them out and show them some love!"

    9. Shady Trails Campground

    2 Reviews
    Hillsboro, OH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 393-5618

    "Right across from the North Beach of Rocky Fork Lake"

    10. Cave Lake Park

    1 Review
    Sinking Spring, OH
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (937) 588-3252
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Recent Reviews near Peebles, OH

494 Reviews of 82 Peebles Campgrounds


  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Stonelick State Park Campground

    Big sites but can be loud and crowded

    Nice big sites, fairly level. 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. The trail to the lake was right next to the sit and that was lovely.

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Great site, not a lot to do.

    Primitive Site 22 was fantastic, tucked away from everyone and quiet. Greenbo just doesn't have a lot to do if you arent boating. And that's okay. We just wanted a lazy trip anyway.

  • Evan C.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Rocky Fork State Park Campground

    Fine tenting, poorly kept

    8/13/2025

    Got here after dark, but navigated to a pretty secluded loop that's just for tenting (site 61 - see map). Stakes went in fine. Seemed to be a lot of different types of spiders, which was cool to see and even cooler that they didn't bug me. Less cool - the site wasn't very clean - bits of trash that a park attendant/ranger definitely should've been picking up. Moreover, there were stray cats living in that section (I saw three), which were very cute but I'm sure they're not living their best life and the wildlife probably don't appreciate them being around either. I called later to let the park know (nobody was around during my stay) and they said they'd get maintenance on it. If you stay here and see them, I'd urge you to let the park know again, or maybe call animal control.

  • Rhonda B.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    The Landing at Bear Creek RV Park

    Best full time campground on the Ohio River!

    We are full-time RVers and this is by far the best park we've stayed at! It's peaceful and beautiful, everyone (especially Management) is so friendly and fun! The laundry facility is one of the greatest amenities as we've stayed other places without one, so we truly appreciate it! The splash pad is fantastic for children and adults alike! There's a dog park, and a kids kangaroo jump pad as well. The view of the river is beautiful! On weekends there's entertainment and/or cornhole tournaments to bring everyone together. The park is maintained perfectly and I've enjoyed calling it home! By far the best park in Southern Clermont County! Must see!

  • Jay T.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Shawnee State Park Campground

    Attractive campground with variety of sites and amenities

    Unlike many Ohio State parks I've visited, the Shawnee campground has a variety of great tent sites.   Several of these are hidden in the trees at the top of some steps and up a short path.  We stayed in 12.  If you don't mind hauling your gear a short distance from your car, sites like this are perfect as they're  for tent campers only.  The campground had fun amenities for kids, like a very small mini golf course and an outdoor screen for movie nights.  The shower houses were clean and the small camp store convenient.  All the Shawnee State Park staff I met were super friendly and helpful.

  • Kim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Cowan Lake State Park Campground

    Sizeable Site, Good for Families

    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. Some sites were much larger than others.

    The restrooms were decent. They weren't new; however, they were very clean. I didn't check out any bath houses.

    The campground was filled with parents and kids riding bikes, playing, and having fun. Nobody was out of control or obnoxious. Plenty of dogs were present.

    We'll return next summer.

  • Tom B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2025

    Greenbo Lake State Resort Park

    Nice campground

    Been going to Greenbo since I was a kid in the 70s.  Facilities are well maintained and clean. The campground has been recently paved. Plenty of full service sites with sewer, but lots of other shady sites without sewer. Was there July 13-16, 2025 -- VERY HOT. Staff are friendly and just excellent. The operating hours of marina and other activities are out of date/wrong on the parks.ky.gov web site, just call the park for hours.

    Oh, if you want firewood, the campground office is at the marina. Go there, pay for the firewood, and it will be delivered to your site while you go enjoy the park.

    Mini golf is in good shape, get clubs and balls at marina. Be prepared, the course is hard, but in a fun way.

    Very bike friendly.

  • Kim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Shawnee State Park-Ohio River Campground

    Very Peaceful, Very Clean

    We stayed in Site 09. The sites are spacious with level, asphalted pads. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table.

    Toward the front of the campground is a great splash pad, playground, and dog park, which includes an agility course. These are located away from the RV's; therefore, the campground was very quiet and peaceful.

    Nearby was a marina, fishing access, and an archery range. The surrounding hills are pretty.

    The bath house was clean. A laundry room was available.

    The only drawback was the lack of shade. Because this place is relatively new, in time--as the planted seedlings grow--this problem will lessen.

  • Bob B.
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Oak Hill Campground

    One-Night Adventure: Our Shakedown Trip in the New Travel Trailer

    Campsite Review for Site 6 – Gateway to Wayne National Forest

    Our recent camping trip at this campground was an excellent way to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Wayne National Forest. The serene forest setting provided a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor adventure, with the campground offering all the basics needed for a comfortable stay.

    We stayed at Site 6 in our travel trailer, enjoying the ease of a pull-through site. Although the water and electric hookups are on the opposite side unless you drive through the loop the wrong way, this setup has an unexpected benefit—it faces directly toward the woods. This orientation allowed us to savor the tranquility of the forest, adding a layer of privacy and a more intimate connection with nature.

    While the sites are decently sized, they are closely positioned with minimal separation, which might limit privacy in other areas. However, the majestic surroundings of Wayne National Forest more than make up for this. The proximity to hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and the peaceful ambiance of the trees create an immersive experience that’s hard to beat.

    All in all, this campground is a fantastic base for exploring Wayne National Forest. The combination of basic amenities, convenient access, and the enchanting forest environment makes it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.


Guide to Peebles

Camping near Peebles, Ohio, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Hocking Hills State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Beautiful area with great hikes and views close by," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: Head to East Fork State Park Campground for some fishing fun. A visitor shared, "This campgrounds beautiful, spacious, clean, and close to the lake," highlighting the great fishing opportunities.
  • Caving: Check out Carter Caves State Resort Park for a unique experience. One reviewer said, "There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds," making it a must-visit for adventure seekers.

What campers like

  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campers at Sandy Springs Campground rave about the family activities. One parent noted, "The campsite is totally geared towards family fun! The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family!"
  • Clean facilities: Many visitors appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A camper at Deer Creek State Park Campground remarked, "The shower houses and restrooms were recently redone and in great shape!"
  • Spacious sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at East Fork State Park Campground. One review stated, "Neighbors weren’t sitting on top of one another," which is a big plus for those seeking privacy.

What you should know

  • Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are quite close together. A visitor at Caesar Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Camp sites are on top of each other, and lots of nosey people," so be prepared for that.
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. A camper at A.W. Marion State Park Campground noted, "The flush toilets are closed for the season so only the vault toilets were open," which might be a downside for some.
  • Weather considerations: Be ready for changing weather conditions. One camper at Hocking Hills State Park Campground shared, "It was humid and we got rained out during our trip," so pack accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Plan activities: Make sure to check out the planned activities at Sandy Springs Campground. A parent said, "My kids were busy nonstop with planned fun activities!"
  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like East Fork State Park Campground, where one visitor appreciated the "plenty of space and grass to walk our dogs."
  • Bring games: Pack outdoor games to keep the kids entertained. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, "There’s so much to do at Carter caves," which can include family games and exploration.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site lengths: Make sure to verify the length of your site, especially at Stonelick State Park Campground. One camper advised, "Some sites are really short. Be sure to check the pad length."
  • Be prepared for slopes: Some sites may have a slope, making leveling your RV tricky. A visitor at Deer Creek State Park Campground noted, "Some sites are shaded while some are in full sun," indicating varying conditions.
  • Plan for amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. A camper at Caesar Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The hookups are very far from the site," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Peebles, Ohio, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a little planning and the right campground, you're sure to have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Peebles, Ohio?

Shawnee State Park Campground is a top option with excellent tent sites nestled in the trees and beautiful countryside views. The park's secluded location offers a true nature escape with no phone signal. Pike Lake State Park Campground near Bainbridge is another great choice with drive-in and walk-in access. For those seeking a riverside experience, Sandy Springs Campground provides stunning views of the Ohio River, fishing access, and friendly atmosphere. Long's Retreat Family Resort near Latham offers family-friendly amenities including water features and various camping options.

What outdoor activities are available near Peebles camping areas?

Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers excellent lake access for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park is particularly beautiful in autumn and provides a convenient location between Cincinnati and Columbus. East Fork State Park Campground features a large lake and extensive hiking trails—just be prepared for the size of the park as it's easy to get turned around on the longer paths. The region around Peebles also offers excellent opportunities for hiking in the foothills of Appalachia, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging terrain in the surrounding state forests.

Are there any free or primitive camping options in Peebles?

Tar Hollow State Park Campground offers primitive camping at their North Ridge campsite, which is tent-only and provides a secluded experience with just basic pit latrines. It's an excellent option for those seeking a more rustic camping experience. Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area has Iron Ridge Campground with several sites that sit below the road, offering more privacy for a primitive camping feel. Be sure to stop at the Camp General Store to pick up your permit before heading to your campsite at Tar Hollow.