Camping near Trenton, Ohio offers options within a 30-minute drive radius of both urban amenities and natural settings along the Little Miami River and surrounding waterways. The area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with hot summers reaching 85°F and moderate rainfall patterns that can affect campground conditions, especially at riverside locations where spring flooding occasionally occurs.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Riverside Campground offers direct river access for water activities. "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 but the campsites are sooo large and spread out from each other," notes Amanda S.
Paved trail biking: Morgan's Canoe and Outdoor Adventure connects to local bike paths. "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," shares Kenpocentaur K.
Disc golf nearby: Family-friendly course options exist near several campgrounds. "A short 18 hole Disc Golf course is close by. It is an easy course great for beginners," explains Dan G. who stayed at Winton Woods Campground.
What campers like
Spacious riverfront sites: Hueston Woods State Park Campground offers large campsites with natural features. "We love Hueston Woods! We have been there twice now and tent camp. A lot of the sites are large and have enough space for everything you need! The beach is a short distance away and love that they also include a dog swimming area," says Maddy B.
Private luxury cabins: Glamping close to Trenton, Ohio at Stonelick State Park Campground provides comfortable accommodations with nature access. "Despite the rain and the wind 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," reports Jess H.
Urban camping convenience: "Very nice campground inside the urban loop in Cincinnati. Close to everything, yet quiet and secluded camping experience," notes Kenneth D. about Winton Woods Campground, making it perfect for those seeking glamping options near Trenton with city access.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding issues: Some riverside sites can experience water level changes. "The Army Corps of Engineers decided to let water out of the dam up river, so it was flooded for a couple days," explains Amanda S. about Riverside Campground.
Bathroom facility variability: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds and even within the same park. "In the larger non-electric loop newer restrooms existed...modern bathrooms and showers were clean and stocked with TP. In my tent area...antiquated wood shed pit latrines...that truly needed razed," reports Dave V. at Hueston Woods.
Tent site shade limitations: Cowan Lake State Park Campground has variable tree cover. "Nice place, spread out, plenty of room between sites, very little shade as they have cut down a whole lot of trees," mentions Brandon P.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with children. "It has a playground for the kids, bathroom and shower facilities were available, and lets not forget the easy access to fresh water and dumping stations! Plenty of sightseeing and activities for ALL ages!!" recommends Charles K. who stayed at Hueston Woods.
Bike-friendly roads: Choose campgrounds with safe cycling paths. "The campground is set in Winton Woods County Park which is about 20 minutes from downtown Cincinnati. There are miles of paved and rustic hiking trails," explains Nancy W.
Organized activities: Some parks offer scheduled programming. "From walk in camping to painball hueston woods has it all. Lots of trails and creeks, biking, boating, play grounds, swimming, food, store, movie nights mini golf and more! They even have an animal preserve," shares Daniele M.
Tips from RVers
Water fill stations: Not all sites have direct hookups despite being RV-friendly. "Area is nicely arranged for most sites. Has water to fill tanks and Dumping Stations to empty as needed, so great semi-boondocking," explains Johnothan R. about Cowan Lake State Park.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for RV setup. "Our site was level and the roads were easy to navigate in our motorhome. The paved trail around the lake was great for walking/jogging and perfect for launching our kayaks," shares Nancy W. about her experience at Winton Woods.
Seasonal site variations: "State Park that offers a beach, canoes, fishing, and camping. Sites are drive-up with plenty of room for a tent or two and fire-rings. Some sites may have trees for hammocks. Can get loud with lots of RVs in spots nearby," notes Clay A. who stayed at Stonelick State Park.
