The Camden area offers several camping options within a 30-mile radius, situated in the rolling hills of southwest Ohio where elevations range between 850-1,100 feet. Weather conditions remain relatively mild through three seasons, with summer highs typically reaching 85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region don't take winter reservations except for Hueston Woods and Natural Springs, which maintain year-round operations.
What to do
Fossil hunting at Caesar Creek: Visitors can obtain permits to collect fossils at designated areas around Caesar Creek Lake. "We even got a permit to collect fossils. Great visitor centers too," notes one camper at Caesar Creek State Park.
Mountain biking on varied terrain: The Twin Valley Trail at Germantown MetroPark offers challenging trails for mountain bikers of all skill levels. A reviewer at Dayton Metro Parks mentioned, "I did not have time to walk any trails, but talked with mountain bikers that spoke favorably. There were several marked trails near the reservoir area."
Scuba diving opportunities: Natural Springs Resort offers unusual inland scuba diving options in their clear spring-fed quarry. "Very nice and clean Campground. The lot we stayed in was a good size and was right on the spring," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at certain campgrounds. At Winton Woods Campground, "Winton Woods campground has spacious paved RV spaces with full hook-ups, fire ring, and picnic table. The location is located on the lake with access to put in a kayak or canoe."
Clean shower facilities: Quality bathroom amenities make a difference for many campers. At Grandpa's Farm Camp Ground, one reviewer highlighted, "We took advantage of the crystal clear pool, immaculate shower facilities, pretty stream and wonderfully kind owners."
Fall camping conditions: The region offers excellent autumn camping with reduced crowds and mild temperatures. At Hueston Woods State Park, a camper noted, "With the vast old growth forests, dried/dead branches for firewood was plentiful for a chilly night(38) fire. We evaded the impending rain for once and pressed on."
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Many campgrounds restrict certain amenities during colder months. At Mounds State Recreation Area, "There is a beach here, with a concession stand. It was closed when we arrived. (They close after Labor Day and open back up in May."
Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds have varying site quality regarding shade, privacy and levelness. "More problematic is that most have slopes. A few too steep to level a trailer. There were more tent campers than trailer campers when we were there."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife interactions, especially raccoons searching for food. "Watch out for the raccoons they are pretty aggressive and were all over our campsite. Clearly they are used to getting handouts, so keep your foodstuffs in your vehicle or well secured."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple lakes and swimming options exist across the region. At Whitewater Memorial State Park, "Whitewater Memorial State Park is located close to Liberty Indiana and is our favorite between the two major parks on Brookville Lake. It has water access to both Brookville and Whitewater lakes."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer educational programming focused on local ecology. "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."
Playground accessibility: Consider proximity to play areas when booking sites. "The nice thing about their site is the additional tables made it easy for us to socially distance. We also were able to have kids do craft at one of the tables while we were preparing meals."
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many camping spots near Camden require additional equipment for leveling. "The sites are big and roomy. Plenty of room for a camper, tents, and outdoor games (cornhole, Kan jam, etc). The sites do not have much shade with trees lining the back."
Hookup variability: Full hookup sites are limited at many campgrounds, requiring early reservations. "Full service campground. 30, 50 am full hook ups. Water and electric only hook ups, primitive RV and tent sites. Some sites are shaded, most of them seem to be year round rented."
First-timer friendly locations: New RV owners will find supportive environments at certain campgrounds. "We just purchased an RV and was so excited to take a trip with it!! Being a first time RV owner we didn't want to travel too far from home just in case something would go wrong. I got spoiled by going to Hueston Woods for our first outing!"
