Scioto-Grove Metro Park, near Grove City, Ohio, is a fantastic spot for those looking to dive into the world of backpacking. With designated sites that are reservable, it’s a great place to test out your gear while enjoying the beauty of nature along the Scioto River.

The campground is all about simplicity and connection with the outdoors. Each site comes with tent pads and a fire ring, plus firewood is provided, making it easy to settle in for a cozy night under the stars. Visitors have noted the spaciousness between sites, allowing for a bit of privacy while still being part of a community of fellow campers. One reviewer mentioned, “Great location, very beautiful,” which sums up the vibe perfectly.

If you’re up for some adventure, the park features wide trails and a fun rope bridge that’s a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a short hike to the sites, so you can enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Some campers have called it a “hidden gem” just outside the hustle and bustle of Columbus, making it an ideal escape for a weekend trip. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just starting out, Scioto-Grove Metro Park offers a welcoming environment to enjoy the great outdoors.

Scioto Grove Metro Park is a 620-acre park along the Scioto River with mature forests and scenic bluffs overlooking the river. It features more than seven miles of trails, two picnic areas with shelters, tables and grills, a kids play area and several overlook decks. The park is located on a scenic bend of the Scioto River and is a great destination for canoeists, kayakers, anglers and people wanting to see waterfowl and other wildlife. Dogs on leashes are welcome throughout the park, which also features a sledding hill. Thanks to a generous donation of 193 acres of land from the City of Grove City, funds from the State of Ohio Clean Ohio Program, and passage of a property tax levy by Franklin County voters, Metro Parks has developed this park for people of all ages and abilities to experience nature and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Additional support came from outdoor retailer REI to construct a backpack trail along the river for those just getting into the sport, as well as those seasoned backpackers who want a quick overnight without having to journey several hours.

Scioto-Grove Metro Park

Looking for the best campgrounds near Grove City, OH? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Grove City. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Grove City, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Grove City

The Best Camping Near Grove City, Ohio

Nice park. You can reserve spaces to backpack along the rei water trail and stay the night to test gear. Not huge, no crazy obstacles but great for last minute trips close to the city.

Nice place

The backpacking site was a great site for new backpackers.  It isn't too long but doing the full loop does let you know if your gear is working or going to be an issue. They provided fire wood for the site.  it is a tricky site to reserve as they only do it for a short season and in that season two weekend a month to avoid over use. The bridge was a lot of fun but I did slip on it in the rain as it was hard to get traction on the wood. I cannot wait to return to the site in the fall.  Each site has it's own personality we picked the further out sites of 6 as less foot traffic by park visitors.

REI backpacking trail 

Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit, besides that they're totally primitive. Very nice park and will be back here soon!

Short backpacking trail with great sites!

Somewhere among the hustle and bustle and just outside Columbus you can find this hidden gem of a park in Grove City. Backpacking sites, rope bridge crossing over a creek that kids and adults would love to explore. Wide trails, grass fields and woods that are beautiful all seasons. 

Hidden Gem 

Free reserve ahead weekend backpacking campsites. All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided. Some have log seating and some do not. 2020 season was closed due to covid-19, still waiting to see if they will open for 2021.

Great for trying out backpacking gear setup

It is a backpacking camp. No driving your vehicle any further than the bottom of the hill.  Great location, very beautiful.   Spacious in between 5 campgrounds and right next to the Scioto River.  

Backpacking camp

Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I’m sure it’s pretty and all, but it’s hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio! Oh well, rest stops always work for car camping. 

Can only stay there on Fridays and Saturdays

Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn’t see a single person. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood.

Photos of Scioto-Grove Metro Park

Real photos from real campers