Best Tent Camping near Sardinia, OH

Tent camping options near Sardinia, Ohio include several established campgrounds within driving distance of town. Narrows Reserve offers primitive tent sites in a meadow setting approximately 1.25 miles from the parking area, while Constitution County Park provides a small tent camping area along the Little Miami River. Waters Edge Canoe Livery also accommodates tent campers with riverside sites that serve as good basecamp locations for paddling activities.

Most tent sites in the region feature basic amenities with varying levels of accessibility. Narrows Reserve requires a moderate hike to reach the primitive camping meadow, where campers will find fire pits but no restroom facilities at the site itself. A water fountain and portable toilet are available at the lower parking lot. Constitution County Park runs directly alongside the Little Miami River with minimal separation from the nearby road. According to one visitor, "The park overall is nice, just a little small. Perfect if you want to camp alone or with a small party of six. It runs right next to the Little Miami."

The tent camping experience in this area often combines natural settings with varying levels of privacy and accessibility. Waters Edge Canoe Livery provides tent sites with amenities including drinking water, fire pits, picnic tables, showers and toilets. Narrows Reserve offers a more secluded experience despite some trail traffic. One camper noted that the meadow camping area "provides no shade" and experiences "tons of traffic with bird watchers and joggers," but remains "beautiful" with "nice river/creek access to cool off." Constitution County Park offers a single camping area that provides solitude from other campers but remains visible from the road. Lizzy's Acres is another option for tent campers seeking a wooded setting near state parks and small-town amenities.

Best Tent Sites Near Sardinia, Ohio (13)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Sardinia, OH

9 Photos of 13 Sardinia Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Sardinia, OH

418 Reviews of 13 Sardinia Campgrounds


  • E
    Jul. 15, 2019

    Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    Hilly, beautiful and secluded

    My family stayed here because we were visiting the Ark Encounter.  I’m not sure if there are closer campgrounds, but we chose to primitive camp here for our visit.  We arrived with just enough time to set up up our tent and head back towards Alexandria for dinner and supplies at Walmart.  There is not much variety and choices very close.  The RV and tent area is very hilly.  Our tent ground sloped but it didn’t bother us very much.  The campsites are very close to each other but there was only two other tent campers and they were both over 4 sites over from us. The tent area has portable toilets.  I chose to drive to the shower house when I needed to use the restroom.  The shower house is typical of most campgrounds, a few cobwebs but generally clean with shower and toilet stalls.  There are two shower houses for the entire campground.  The lake is very pretty, a few camp grounds are right off the shore.  The only thing I didn’t like was that there was no water spigot in the main tent camp area.

  • Anna S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Scioto Trail State Park Campground

    Tent only sites - quiet, wooded

    I stayed in the non-electric, tent-only campground NOT the RV campground. Out of curiosity, I drove through the RV campground and it was so loud and cramped! But the tent-only area is separate. Walk-in sites with pit toilets and potable water. The map of how the sites are laid out online is extremely inaccurate, I would not have picked my site if it had been accurate. But there was only one other camper and we all had plenty of space - I could barely see them through the trees. All sites appeared to have a picnic table and fire ring. Many miles of trails / dirt roads for hiking and biking. Clear skies at night. Very relaxing.

  • Frank H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2021

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Nice campground

    This was the last campground before returning home from a month long camping road trip across the country and back. Picturesque camp directly on the Ohio River. Very level. Small campground with about 40 sites. Basically all sites are for RVs and equipped with electrical and water and most with sewer. We were tent camping and set up and a very soft & thick grassy space on one of the empty sites. The owners plan to install dedicated tent sites along the edge of the woods. There is a camp store with most needed items. Ice and firewood sold. Very spacious and individual toilet and shower & sink rooms. Good showers with plenty of hot water. Playground for children. Volleyball for anyone. Dumpster for trash. Great people. Easy to make reservations.

  • J
    Sep. 19, 2021

    Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    VERY much recommend

    My husband and I stayed for 2 weeks in a very large tent back in primitive camping area ... The campground we found to be very well maintained with a very kind and attentive staff who checked on us regularly. The sites were large enough for our liking with each having a picnic table and firepit but no water or electric. Primitive tent camping is back in its own little part of the park near the lake (there are a few lakeside sites if you have a small kayak or raft to use while there) and while we liked the privacy the one set back is this big hill you must climb to get to the bathhouse or anywhere else on the property .. the distance to walk to the bathhouse as well is a good little walk and not anything you want to be doing if you have health issues or limited physically at all .. the bathhouse was always being checked on by staff for cleanliness and stayed pretty fresh our entire stay (they have 2 bathhouses) .. you can't gather or bring your own firewood for whatever reason and the 6$ cost per bundle (as well as the 7$ per bag of ice if u should need it) isn't cheap. Most rv sites are in shade ...nice playground for the kids and just outside the campground is the rest of kincaid lake state park .. the state park area has a beautiful view of lake with Olympic sized pool as well as general store and many different shelter houses and grills to enjoy if you'd like.. they have a nice recreational area offering a big nice basketball court , playground, volleyball court and putt putt golf course .. NICE QUIET PEACEFUL PLACE TO GET AWAY TO FOR SURE. WE WILL DEF BE BACK

  • Steve Z.
    Aug. 5, 2021

    Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park

    Great place for passers through or staycationers.

    We have stayed in four sites her during the past couple of month. There are two walk-in sites (10 & 51). Both were pleasant, nearly level, close to amenities, but were under no shade. [Site 10 is presently inhabited by a large family with a sign that says “Camp Host out front. I have not seen them do anything for campers here, and the site is kept in disgraceful cluttered condition.] we next stayed on Lot 13, which backs up to the primitive campground. Quite nice, but beware: this site as well as about half of the other sites at this campground require the use of electrical and water extensions because the connections are on the “wrong” side of the RV, and quite a distance away. For Lot 13, I needed over 50’ of extensions. We then stayed on walk-in lot 51. I was able to “self permit” at the gate…it’s first come first served, no online reservations. Nice, but no shade. Finally, we’re on Lot 47. Eureka! This is my favorite so far. It’s one of the “premium sites” with wooden deck and nicer picnic table for only $2 additional per night. View is phenomenal, and it’s close enough to dumpsters and gatehouse. Notice that I didn’t mention anything about sewer hookups. That’s because there are none. There is a single, very popular dump station near the entrance/exit.
    There are several miles of decent trails here, a swimming pool, putt putt golf, a pioneer museum, and a lodge with a good restaurant. The campground is easily accessible and is very kid and pet friendly. Nice sites for tent camping. Facilities are a bit dated, but clean and well maintained. All RV sites are back-in, and some are limited length. (Though some campers have rather cleverly managed to pull through a couple of the sites.) Some are quite unlevel.
    Overall good family campground on rich historical site.

  • Anne H.
    May. 22, 2018

    Winton Woods Campground

    Love this campground for a weekend rendezvous!

    Winton Woods campground has spacious paved RV spaces with full hook-ups, fire ring, and picnic table. They also have cabin and tent camping. The location is located on the lake with access to put in a kayak or canoe. The bathrooms are clean, with private combined shower/dressing stalls. There is a playground for children, and a camp store that sells firewood and supplies. I love the tall pines on the property. They made me feel like I was out west. The campground is also near paved and unpaved trails in the park that surround more of the lake which allows for walking/running/hiking and bicycling, fishing, small craft boating, with small craft boat rentals available at the marina. The park also allows for horseback riding, and a small water park for children in the summer.

  • D
    Jun. 11, 2022

    Paint Creek State Park Campground

    Premium sites are

    We paid extra to have a "Premium" site, which meant we got a deck. That deck held our picnic table,  but there was no room to put our camping chairs. And though we were close to the lake, you could not see it through the trees. We could barely get out of our trailer and into the driveway without falling into a ravine. The fire pit had to be put on the back side of our trailer next to the road as that was the only spot it could fit. We were told to check out other sites in case we want to come back. Ha. The staff knew no one who had ever been here would ever take this site! But... we won't need to check out other sites as we'll never come back.

  • James W.
    Jul. 7, 2018

    Shawnee State Park Campground

    A Challenging Backpacking Loop

    We took a group of Boy Scouts on a five day backpacking trek of the entire Shawnee Loop. It was a very challenging five days with a lot of up and down hills.

    The entire loop is around 36 miles. There are seven campsites along the trail, and all but one has water access, which was really nice on our trek.

    The first day we hiked from the trail head parking lot to Camp 1. The camp was a small, secluded grove down in a valley. This made for a nice cool off from the day's heat. The camp has a large grassy area and several smaller campsite offshoots.

    The second day we hiked to camp 2 and stopped for water. Unfortunately the water supply seems to have been compromised since we found leaves in the water coming from the faucet. Luckily we have our water filtration system so we quickly filtered the water and were on our way. We then hiked to camp 3 which is very close to Camp Oyo. This was a nice, large camp right next to the creek. We had tons of space. The only bad thing about this campsite was it's proximity to the main road. We heard cars going by all night.

    The next day we found a beautiful view on top of the one hill just off a logging road where we stopped for lunch. There was even a picnic table. We then went on to camp 4 which, unfortunately, had been trashed. There was garbage everywhere, likely due to this campsite being close to a road. So, as good boy scouts we cleaned up the trash so that the next group could enjoy the camp. This camp was much like camp 1. Grassy area, small creek, lots of shade in the valley.

    We then went on to camp five and we quite disappointed. This is barely a camp at all. It's just a long trail to a small grassy patch. Barely enough room to set up a decent camp. I think this camp has not seen much use.

    When we hiked to camp 6 the next day we found the crown jewel of the trail. Camp 6 is absolutely beautiful. The camp is in a pine grove and has a substantial creek running through the middle complete with fairly large fish! Although there was no water access in camp six we were able to refill water thanks to the stream and our filters. We were very bummed to not be camping at camp six.

    We then went on to camp 7 for our final night. Camp seven is just like camp 1. It's down in a cool valley with an open patch for tents and lots of good trees for hammocks.

    Overall it's a good hiking trail, and very challenging. The only thing I would like to have seen more of would be a more interesting trail. Which cant be helped, really. There aren't any interesting rock formations or caves along the trail. And the views are OK. Nothing too spectacular. My thought is that you do the Shawnee trail for the challenge of the distance, terrain, etc. It's a good training trail for longer treks. I enjoyed it greatly, but don't see myself coming back for some time.

  • K
    Sep. 4, 2018

    Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    Iffy

    We went to tour the campground with intentions of pulling our camper (for reference 36' trailer) up there to stay while my husband worked on a contract in a neighboring town. I had read every review that I could find so I kind of knew what to expect. There were very few sites that I could even fit on and even then I would have had to disconnect from the truck and pull in beside the camper. I wasn't sure if I could get the awning and slides out on some of the sites by the way they are set up. Most sites are shaded and a nice little playground for kids. I have an outside kitchen in the back of my camper and it would be hanging out over a hill on most sites. The state could spend a few dollars on this campground and build up the campsites to make them more usable. The campers that were there had to use a ton of blocks to level up so be prepared. Tent sites are all on a sloping hill, so it might get interesting when it rains, still close to the lake with a great view. Pretty enough, but I won't be camping there. It looked like too much work to set up for a few days. Didn't use the restrooms, therefore no judgement. Sorry, I sound like it's not good enough for me, but I just wasn't impressed. Another point is that you can't swim in the lake, why?


Guide to Sardinia

Tent camping opportunities near Sardinia, Ohio extend beyond established campgrounds to include primitive sites in natural settings. This rural area sits where the Appalachian foothills meet the Ohio Valley, creating varied terrain for campers seeking both riverside and woodland experiences. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall.

What to do

Kayaking access points: Constitution County Park provides direct river access with a small boat ramp for kayakers. "This park is a very small park running along the little Miami river, but that doesn't make it bad. Its literally right beside the river and it has a small ramp into the river. It's the perfect launching point for anyone wanting to take a kayaking trip down the river," notes Daniel G. from Constitution County Park.

Rope swing adventures: Halfway between the parking area and primitive campsites at Narrows Reserve, campers can find a rope swing accessible from the opposite side of the creek. According to Chelsie B., "About halfway toward camp was a rope swing that can be accessed from opposite side. Nice river/creek access to cool off."

Fishing opportunities: Waters Edge Canoe Livery serves as a basecamp for fishing trips along the creek. Jonathan W. from Waters Edge Canoe Livery reports, "Very fun place to camp and enjoy the creek on a kayak or canoe. Very friendly staff, and one of my favorite places to go."

What campers like

Privacy from other campers: Constitution County Park offers exclusive use of its single camping area. Camden H. explains: "The park overall is nice, just a little small. Perfact if you want to camp alone or with a small party of six. It runs right next to the little Miami. There is only one site to camp at, so you won't have to worry about other campers the park is all yours."

Convenient hiking trails: Narrows Reserve features well-maintained trails surrounding the primitive camping meadow. Austin R. reports, "The trail was very well traveled and very well maintained. It was a super easy hike in for the 1.25 miles. I did enjoy some of the other trails around the meadow."

Proximity to local attractions: Lizzy's Acres provides tent camping near state parks and small-town amenities. Jake C. from Lizzy's Acres notes, "Lizzy's Acres is a new listing on the Dyrt, but they offer a great location for those looking to explore the area."

What you should know

Primitive amenities: Most tent camping sites around Sardinia offer basic facilities. At Narrows Reserve, Chelsie B. advises, "Camp was in a meadow at the end of about an hour walk in. Literally campsite is on top of trails and meadow provides no shade. There was two fire pits provided within the meadow but enough space for quite a few tents."

Trail traffic: Some camping areas experience regular foot traffic during daylight hours. Narrows Reserve campers should expect visitors using adjacent trails. "Tons of traffic with Bird watchers and joggers. 8 to 8 seemed quite other than a dog that came barking through meadow in middle of the night," shares Chelsie B.

Road proximity: Road noise can affect some camping locations. At Constitution County Park, Camden H. warns, "The road is extremely near and you can hear every car driving by. It's way to open for my taste. Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot."

Tips for camping with families

Pack-in distance considerations: When camping with children at Narrows Reserve, prepare for the 1.25-mile hike to reach primitive sites. Austin R. shares, "I actually didn't even look at a map until I arrived. That's when I realized the primitive campsites were 1.25 miles from the parking lot."

Water access safety: The Little Miami River offers cooling opportunities but requires supervision. Multiple swimming spots exist along Narrows Reserve trails, as Austin R. notes: "Along the trail there were spots where you could jump in the river and even a rope swing. I didn't bring my swim trunks, but I wish I had!"

Town amenities: Small towns near camping areas provide essential supplies and activities. When staying at Constitution County Park, Camden H. recommends, "The little town across the way is a fun site to see and quiet."

Tips from RVers

No dedicated RV hookups: Most tent camping areas near Sardinia lack RV-specific facilities. Waters Edge Canoe Livery offers water hookups but limited RV accommodations. The property features "drinking-water" and "water-hookups" alongside tent sites and cabin options.

Alternative boat launch locations: RVers seeking boat access without overnight stays can utilize dedicated ramps. Carl J. advises, "This is just a boat ramp for a local fishing lake sitting near the local water departments pump station. There is no camping here at all."

Seasonal accessibility: The best tent camping near Sardinia, Ohio varies by season, with some facilities like Narrows Reserve open year-round while others have limited availability. Check ahead as weather conditions affect primitive camping comfort throughout the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Sardinia, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sardinia, OH is Eagle Creek Marina with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Sardinia, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Sardinia, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.