Best Campgrounds near Waverly, OH

Camping options around Waverly, Ohio include established campgrounds within state parks and private facilities. The area features several notable camping destinations including Scioto Trail State Park, Pike Lake State Park, and Long's Retreat Family Resort. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering cabin rentals and glamping options. The terrain typically consists of wooded areas with access to lakes, ponds, and streams for recreation, fishing, and water activities.

Seasonal considerations impact camping experiences in the region. Many campgrounds operate year-round, but others like Long's Retreat are open only from April through October. Campgrounds often have varying amenities, from full-service facilities with hookups, showers, and modern restrooms to more primitive options with vault toilets and limited water access. Several campgrounds experience drainage issues during rainy periods, with visitors noting site flooding concerns. According to one camper at Pike Lake State Park, "It rained quite a bit and many of the sites got flooded. The ground here doesn't drain well."

State park campgrounds provide the most consistent camping experience in the area. Scioto Trail State Park offers a rustic setting with tent sites situated in heavily wooded areas, providing privacy and natural surroundings. Pike Lake features renovated facilities including paved roads and camp pads, though some sites are notably small. Visitors appreciate the natural features at these parks, with hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Tar Hollow State Park Campground offers additional recreational opportunities with boat access and multiple trail systems. While proximity to water is a draw for many campers, reviews indicate varying water quality in the lakes and ponds. One visitor noted that Scioto Trail's lake was "more like a large pond" while others appreciated the good fishing opportunities at several locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Waverly, Ohio (101)

    1. Scioto Trail State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Waverly, OH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 663-2125

    $25 - $30 / night

    "We chose to camp at Scioto Trail State Park because of it's proximity to Salt Creek Kayak Adventures. While I had hiked at Scioto Trail in the past, this was our first visit to the campground."

    "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."

    2. Hocking Hills State Park Campground

    109 Reviews
    South Bloomingville, OH
    32 miles
    Website

    $29 - $46 / night

    "There are lots of caves, trails, camping options and activities in the area. Be careful, however, every year someone is injured or dies going off trail, often falling from a cliff."

    "If you stay away from the main roads, you might feel like you're in a smaller campground."

    3. Pike Lake State Park Campground

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

    "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."

    "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."

    4. Long's Retreat Family Resort

    13 Reviews
    Sinking Spring, OH
    18 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."

    5. Tar Hollow State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Adelphi, OH
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 887-4818

    $4 - $27 / night

    "The campground is about 2-3 acres large, situated on a hill with a path dug out around the perimeter. "

    "The drive there was a very interesting tour of trump flags Amish buggies and more. Would come back if I was stranded in Ohio, but overall great pit stop for cleaning up on a long journey."

    6. Trackside Camping

    2 Reviews
    Waverly, OH
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 701-2908

    $35 / night

    7. 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."

    8. Waters Edge Canoe Livery

    1 Review
    Chillicothe, OH
    12 miles
    Website

    $12 / night

    9. Sun Valley Campground

    4 Reviews
    Chillicothe, OH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (740) 775-3490

    "We were able to reserve a drive-thru site on the same day we wanted it.  It looks like there are quite a few seasonal campers there.  Sites have space between them, many are shaded. "

    10. Lizzy’s Acres

    1 Review
    Bainbridge, OH
    15 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!"

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Recent Reviews near Waverly, OH

592 Reviews of 101 Waverly Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • Joe B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Campbell Cove Camping

    Nice campground

    We stayed at site 63 , on the water. Big site, water view and plenty of space. The road across the lake has an uphill section and people like to race up it. Trucks, motorcycles and cars. Really loud. I know the campground doesn’t control the road, so it’s just a note about the noise. The site is amazing, and I would come back.

  • 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.

  • Reb S.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    A.W. Marion State Park Campground

    Horrible

    Really disgusted with out last stay here. We ended up next to some tent campers who were homeless which isn't the issue because things in life happen it was the way they acted that just grossed me out. I spent the first few days listening to them arguing and fighting amongst each other about their welfare checks being spent on their cigarettes beer and weed. They had 2 kids one that was autistic that they called a retard the other one they called stupid and it was just heartbreaking. I ended up having to go inside my camper and turning my ac on to escape their screaming and yelling and fighting that went into the midnight hour. My dog has a heart murmur and it made him anxious. I felt like I was camping in the bottoms of Columbus Ohio. The camp host said they are there all the time which is disturbing that they condone this behavior and makes me question the integrity of this location. Luckily after contacting ODNR we were able to move to a location far from them and given a gift card for our troubles. This was after they moved their camp stuff practically across the front bumper of my 100,000 RV. My husband and I pay way to much for our RV and for our stays to put up with this trash. We'd be hard pressed to come back here and be exposed to this kind of drama again.

  • 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.

  • 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 Waverly

Camping near Waverly, Ohio, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

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 Caesar Creek State Park Campground for some fishing. A reviewer noted, "Sites are close together unless you’re in the loop at the end of the loop," indicating that while it can be busy, there are still great spots to cast a line.
  • Swimming: Enjoy a dip at the pool in East Fork State Park Campground. One visitor said, "They had a pool which people seemed to enjoy," highlighting it as a fun amenity for families.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Carter Caves State Resort Park stated, "Staff cleans the bathhouse every hour," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at East Fork State Park Campground. One reviewer shared, "Neighbors weren’t sitting on top of one another," making it a comfortable choice for those who value space.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The welcoming vibe at Sandy Springs Campground is a hit. A camper said, "The campsite is totally geared towards family fun!" which is great for those with kids.

What you should know:

  • Site Proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Caesar Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Camp sites are on top of each other," so if you prefer more privacy, plan accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Hope State Park Campground, may have fewer amenities. A reviewer noted, "The latrines smell for a good distance," so be prepared for rustic conditions.
  • Seasonal Availability: Check the campground seasons before you go. For example, Stonelick State Park Campground is open from April 1 to October 31, which is important for planning your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. One camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park said, "Great facilities, hiking, caving etc.," which can keep kids entertained.
  • Bring a Cart: If you're camping at Hocking Hills State Park Campground, consider bringing a cart for your gear. A reviewer advised, "I highly recommend some sort of cart for your gear," especially for the walk-in sites.
  • Check for Events: Look for planned activities at campgrounds like Sandy Springs Campground, where one visitor noted, "The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Length: Make sure to check the pad length before booking. A reviewer at Stonelick State Park Campground mentioned, "Some sites are really short," which can be a hassle for larger rigs.
  • Water Hookups: Be aware that some campgrounds, like A.W. Marion State Park Campground, do not have water hookups. A camper noted, "NO water hookups," so plan to bring enough water for your stay.
  • Dump Station Location: Familiarize yourself with the dump station's location. A visitor at Stonelick State Park Campground mentioned, "Dump station is conveniently located in the center loop," which can save you time during your trip.

Camping near Waverly, Ohio, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots in Waverly?

The Waverly area offers several excellent camping options. Pike Lake State Park Campground is a top choice, featuring clean cabins with functional kitchens, comfortable beds, and air conditioning. The park has a nice beach area and recreational activities on the smaller lake. For a more secluded experience, Tar Hollow State Park Campground offers tent-only sites at its North Ridge campground, providing a true immersion in nature with more primitive facilities.

What amenities are available at Waverly campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Waverly offer varying amenities. Lake Hope State Park Campground is considered an underrated gem with fewer crowds than nearby parks, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter experience. Hocking Hills State Park Campground provides diverse camping options with numerous trails, caves, and recreational activities. For RV campers, Hocking River RV Park offers pull-through spots (though some maneuvering is required for larger rigs), bath houses, and fire rings situated along the river.

Do I need reservations for camping in Waverly?

Reservations are highly recommended for most campgrounds in the Waverly area, especially during peak seasons. Shawnee State Park Campground offers a variety of tent sites, including secluded spots hidden among trees that require advance booking. For primitive camping at Zaleski State Forest, you should check in before proceeding to your site. During summer months and fall color season, campgrounds fill quickly, so securing your spot ahead of time is advisable for the best camping experience.