4 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Tent camping options near St. Marys, Ohio include both established campgrounds and primitive sites along hiking trails. The St. Mary's Section of the Buckeye Trail offers free primitive tent camping at an Adirondack shelter between Points 6 and 7, accessible only by hiking in. On Cedar Pond provides a more developed alternative with just two tent sites featuring amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, picnic tables, and shower facilities.
Primitive tent setups along the Buckeye Trail require proper preparation as facilities are minimal. The Adirondack shelter can accommodate up to six people sleeping off the ground and includes a stone fireplace for cooking and warmth. Deadfall from surrounding trees provides kindling and fuel for fires. For those seeking more amenities, On Cedar Pond offers reservable sites with standard campground facilities including toilets and trash disposal, though these are not free. Saulisberry Park Campground provides another option with electric hookups and picnic tables, but lacks shower facilities.
The tent camping experience varies significantly between locations. The Buckeye Trail shelter sits approximately 10 miles from trailheads at Lockington or Fort Loramie, making it ideal for breaking up a two-day backpacking trip. One camper noted that "you cannot miss it as you go along the trail" and appreciated being able to "drop the tent" while learning to backpack the Buckeye Trail. This shelter represents a practical first step toward backpacking without carrying the full physical load of tent gear. For those preferring more comfort, On Cedar Pond offers a scenic setting that one visitor described as "beautiful" with an "amazing" stay. Most tent sites in the region require advance planning regarding water sources and waste disposal.
"You're learning to backpack the Buckeye Trail, and you want to take the first steps towards that without worrying about the physical load you're going to have to carry."
from $45 - $50 / night
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LegendThis was our first time here. We only stayed one night as we were on our way to Indiana. We were on site 16 which was right next to the Parks building and one of the camp host and right across the street from a playground. It was a short walk to the shower house and the campground itself was very clean and well taken care of. At the back of our site it was like a big giant backyard and it led to the canal.
RangerGreat camping. It’s smaller but most sites are great. There is a lot of site that are on water or close to water. Very clean and well maintained . This is perfect for fishing, boating and kayaks.
GuideTraveling on I40 in mid-October, I planned to stop at Joe Skeen. In the past I have stayed at Quaking Aspen (Ft. Wingate), but it is often deserted in the off season. Unfortunately, Joe Skeen was full, but TheDyrt showed me my options and I ended up backtracking a little way to get to Bluewater State Park.
Beware of the drive in. The turns are well marked, but there is a cliff on the other side. First Come First Served registration was easy in the off season. I did not use the facilities.
GuideEarly evening online reservation..a tad challenging finding the site upon our arrival but we managed ok......decent site near pool, fairly level, safe, secure,clean bath house, reasonably priced for an out of state visitor. Highly recommend....Would visit again if I pass through this region in the future
RangerVery small campground, not much privacy between the sites. But is very nice all around. Nice big lake, nice shower house, nice camp store. It has a nice beach. Very well maintained lake .
GuidePrice is now $35/ night $30 seniors. Beautiful paved trails. Lots of flowers and trees. Stayed in site #8 morning shade with afternoon shade in back. Highly recommend.
ScoutStayed in cabin 4 last year got are alive. Stayed in cabin 1 this year and got bit worse. This year looks like bed bugs
ScoutVery clean nice place to stay. Friendly ppl, camp hosts are very helpful
RangerStopped for the night while passing through Ohio. Conveniently off the main hwy. The staff at the office were super helpful and friendly and the office was open until 7 on the Sunday we can by. Most sites where we were (#203) were pull through a on concrete. There’s a pool also - although we didn’t have time to check it out. The dump station provides the “stinky slinky” so you don’t have to use yours 🙃 Nice big lake for boats and fishing.
Tent camping options near St. Marys, Ohio range from primitive trail shelters to developed campgrounds with amenities. This rural area in western Ohio sits at approximately 860 feet elevation and experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging between 60-85°F. Camping availability varies seasonally, with most established sites accessible from April through October.
Water activities at Grand Lake: Campers staying near St. Marys can access Grand Lake St. Marys State Park for fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. The 13,500-acre lake provides multiple public access points and boat ramps.
Hiking the Miami & Erie Canal: The historic canal towpath passes through the area, offering level hiking terrain suitable for all ages. Trail segments connect to the St. Mary's Section - Buckeye Trail, where hikers can utilize the Adirondack shelter. Jonathan W. notes, "If you start in Lockington or Fort Loramie, this shelter is approximately 10 miles in and the right place to break a two-day backpacking trip."
Birdwatching seasons: Spring and fall migrations bring numerous waterfowl and songbird species to wetland areas surrounding tent camping St. Marys locations. The marshland habitats support over 100 bird species throughout the year. Early morning hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities.
Secluded pond setting: The small, two-site setup at On Cedar Pond provides a quieter alternative to larger campgrounds. Charlie H. describes their experience as "amazing! So beautiful" when staying at this intimate camping area.
Fireplace amenities: Tent campers appreciate the stone fireplace at the Buckeye Trail shelter for both cooking and warmth during cooler nights. The shelter's design includes a functional chimney and nearby deadfall provides readily available firewood.
Electric hookups: For tent campers wanting some conveniences, Saulisberry Park Campground offers electric service at their tent sites alongside picnic tables. This allows for charging devices or using small appliances while maintaining a tent camping experience.
Limited tent-only options: Most campgrounds near St. Marys primarily serve RV campers, with only a few dedicated tent areas. Kamp-A-Lott includes tent sites among its offerings but facilities are basic compared to dedicated tent campgrounds.
Weather considerations: The region experiences frequent thunderstorms during summer months. Tent campers should bring appropriate rain gear and select sites with proper drainage, particularly during April-June when rainfall averages 4-5 inches monthly.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance bookings during peak season (May-September). The Buckeye Trail shelter operates on first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system.
Age-appropriate hiking distances: When camping with children along the Buckeye Trail, plan daily hiking distances accordingly. Most kids under 10 can comfortably handle 3-5 miles per day, while teenagers can typically manage 8-10 miles to reach the shelter.
Bathroom planning: Families tent camping in St. Marys, Ohio should note that primitive sites along trails have no bathroom facilities. On Cedar Pond offers toilet and shower facilities, making it more suitable for camping with younger children.
Safety precautions: When camping with children near water features, bring appropriate flotation devices. Cell phone coverage can be spotty in more remote camping areas, so establish clear meeting points and boundaries with older children.
Limited services for large rigs: Most tent camping areas near St. Marys have minimal facilities for RVs. None of the campgrounds in the immediate vicinity can accommodate larger rigs over 30 feet.
Generator restrictions: Tent camping areas generally prohibit generator use to maintain quiet environments. RVers should fully charge batteries before setting up at primitive sites or seek campgrounds with electric hookups like Saulisberry Park Campground which offers 30-amp connections.
Dump station locations: While primitive tent camping locations lack dump facilities, Saulisberry Park provides a sanitary dump station for RVers. This service is available even for those not staying at the campground for a small fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near St. Marys, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near St. Marys, OH is St. Mary's Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 6-7) with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near St. Marys, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 tent camping locations near St. Marys, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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