Tent campsites near Wilmington, Ohio provide excellent access to Little Miami River activities with multiple water entry points for paddlers. Most primitive sites in Greene County parks require campers to bring their own drinking water, with vault toilets being the typical bathroom option. The area offers both drive-up and hike-in camping experiences, with several reserves maintaining quiet, low-traffic camping spots throughout the year.
What to do
Kayaking from Constitution County Park: The park sits directly beside the Little Miami River with a small ramp for easy water access. "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.
Enjoy river activities: The Jacoby Road Canoe Launch offers excellent water access in a quiet setting. "Beautiful spot for tent camping right next to the Little Miami River. Picnic tables and fire pit are also nice amenities. I just wish there were a trash can," writes Logan in his review. The site sees limited traffic even during peak season.
Explore former amusement park remains: Hiking trails at Possum Creek Metro Park lead to interesting historical artifacts. "In addition to the lake, they also had a farm on the property that was enjoyable for the kids to see the animals... 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," according to Kenpocentaur K.
What campers like
Low-traffic camping experiences: Yellow Springs area sites offer privacy from crowds. A reviewer at Jacoby Road Canoe Launch writes, "This site was so low key and didn't have a lot of people. We saw a few cars and trucks during our weekend as it is a canoe launch. Locals also will stop here to hike and avoid the crowds in town."
Firewood included with site rental: Possum Creek Metro Park provides generous firewood with reservations. "They provide a bundle of firewood for each night that you have reserved the site. In addition, you can easily purchase more wood that will be right there at the site for you," reports Kenpocentaur K. This distinguishes Five Rivers Metroparks sites from other camping options.
Spacious sites for group camping: Tent sites in the region often accommodate larger groups than state parks. "Buckeye my campsite is rated as for 5 parking spots and a capacity of 12 folks. This is much more than what is allowed at our local state parks. As I mentioned it is nice and easy for a group of us to camp here," notes a Possum Creek Metro Park reviewer.
What you should know
Variable camping privacy: Some locations offer more seclusion than others. At Constitution County Park, Camden H. notes: "The road is extremely near and you can hear every car driving by. The fall chill by the fire is nice but it's way to open for my taste. Anyone can pull in and see your entire setup just from the road or parking lot."
Walk-in camping distances: Narrows Reserve requires a moderate hike to tent sites. "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... it was very well traveled and very well maintained. It was a super easy hike in for the 1.25 miles," explains Austin R.
Camp in meadows vs. forests: Narrows Reserve offers tent camping in open areas. "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," writes Chelsie B.
Tips for camping with families
Camping gear rental options: Five Rivers Metroparks offers equipment rental for families wanting to try camping. "If you do not have camping gear but still want to get out and try it then you can rent it from them. A set of 6 is $50.00 for the weekend. This includes the tent, sleeping pads, and sleeping bag," explains a reviewer.
Farm animal viewing: Possum Creek features a working farm that kids enjoy. "In addition to the lake, they also had a farm on the property that was enjoyable for the kids to see the animals. You can hear some of the animals but we enjoyed this aspect," notes a camper at Possum Creek Metro Park.
Rope swing water fun: Trails near Twin Valley Trail camping areas have water play options. "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!" writes Austin R. about the Narrows Reserve area trail system.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The Wilmington area offers few dedicated RV camping options with most sites being tent-only. The Twin Creek camping area within Five Rivers Metroparks provides some RV accommodation but with minimal hookups. "During these COVID-19 times we wanted a place to park that wasn't the traditional Ohio State Parks camp site. We didn't want to share a common bathroom/bath house or playground area," writes Kenpocentaur K.
Pack in all necessities: RVers should bring all needed supplies as services are limited. "No water so bring your own and the latrine is an old one (cement blocks)," reports a camper about Possum Creek. Most tent camping sites in the area don't offer power hookups, water connections, or dump stations.
Consider seasonal access: Many area campgrounds remain open year-round but with seasonal limitations. Jacoby Road Canoe Launch operates throughout the year but certain facilities may close during winter months. Check with park authorities about road conditions and facility availability before planning a winter RV trip.
