The best star host campgrounds in Ohio

With its vast agricultural plains hemmed in by mountains, lakes, and rivers, Ohio’s natural scenery covers all terrains. Beach breaks await along the sandy shores of Lake Erie to the north, while to the east, ancient caves and waterfalls are hidden away in the forested foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Outdoor activities take place through all four seasons, from hiking and canoeing to snowshoeing and ice fishing, and camping is possible year-round. Summer temperatures average 80°F, and this is prime time for campers, but the views are most spectacular in the fall, when the eastern hills are ablaze with colorful foliage.

99% (11.6K) • 530 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ohio

With its vast agricultural plains hemmed in by mountains, lakes, and rivers, Ohio’s natural scenery covers all terrains. Beach breaks await along the sandy shores of Lake Erie to the north, while to the east, ancient caves and waterfalls are hidden away in the forested foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Outdoor activities take place through all four seasons, from hiking and canoeing to snowshoeing and ice fishing, and camping is possible year-round. Summer temperatures average 80°F, and this is prime time for campers, but the views are most spectacular in the fall, when the eastern hills are ablaze with colorful foliage.

99% (11.6K) • 530 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ohio

1. Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds

97%

(57)

45 sites · RVs, Lodging · Logan, OH

Hilltop Resorts uniquely combines the amenities and luxuries of a resort with a more natural campground setting, giving you the best of both worlds! Feel close to nature, in a serene, unassuming environment, while staying in comfort and experiencing a wide range of amenities that we offer. Whether you are looking for Cabin stays, RV parks, Glamping, or Camping, we have them all! Hilltop Resorts is an ideal spot for those seeking cabin stays, RV camping, glamping, or camping in Hocking Hills. Situated by Lake Logan, it offers convenient access to Hocking Hills and nearby attractions. You can unwind in the resort’s cabins or RV park, as well as various glamping and tent sites, and appreciate the stunning scenery of Hocking Hills. At Hilltop Resorts, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of amenities and activities that are designed to engage not only our small guests but also those who are young at heart. Our guests can enjoy a variety of exciting activities and facilities, ensuring that everyone has a memorable and enjoyable stay with us.

2. Appalachian Retreat Camp

100%

(40)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Newport, OH

Bring a friend and rent this site in conjunction with some of our other sites or split up your camping trip with a night in our backcountry camp site. Located in the rolling Appalachian hills of Southeast Ohio. This farm has been in our family since 1869 when our relatives settled here from Germany. Originally farmed for cattle and sheep with many orchards over the years our property is now mostly mature forest. Southeast Ohio, including our property is known for its hilly topography and microclimates. Hills range from 400 to 1,100 feet. Nearly 500 acres of land with an additional 200+ acres of Wayne National Forest adjacent to our farm and close proximity to other Wayne areas for outdoor activities. We have nearly 10 miles of available trails for hiking. Many activities can be done at or centered around our property. Such as excellent and challenging road biking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, kayaking and boating. We are two miles from the Little Muskingum River. A great river for kayak trips. The Wayne Kinderhook horse and hiking trail is roughly 5 miles from our location. Hike to the Irish Run Natural Land bridge trail also a short drive to the trailhead from our property. Ride your motorcycle up Rt. 26 a great Ohio byway for scenic driving. This is also a great home base for dual sport or adventure bike motorcycle riders to camp while adventuring along gravel roads through Appalachia. If motorcycles aren't your method of entertainment and travel. Bring your horse and ride on several of our trails. From steep ascents to long flat ridge lines, you will have lots of time to immerse yourself with nature while hiking. We're next to a section of the Wayne National Forest and a short drive to other similar Wayne activity sites. If you like to camp, but don't want the busy public park experience then you will enjoy the privacy of our camping location. We are also only about a 20-minute drive to downtown Marietta. Where you can find restaurants, bars, and many other fun activities.

3. Uncle Chuck's Cabin

100%

(108)

1 site · Lodging · Grand Rapids, OH

This property is a great place to enjoy nature. The Metropark has an easement through the canal. Bendview park is nearby. Undeveloped park acreage is near the access road to the east. Fly kites or drones in the grassy field. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are fun winter sports to indulge in. Birds find sanctuary here. Baltimore orioles, Cedar Waxwings,eagles, bluebirds and pileated woodpeckers pass through. Arrowheads have been found everywhere. There's peace and quiet in the surrounding area. Learn more about this land: See nature up close at this secluded getaway a 10 minute walk from South River Road. Enjoy fishing, bird watching, water sports, hiking, campfires and star gazing. Situated on the grassy bank of the Maumee with a natural boat launch. Adjacent to Metropark towpath between Waterville and Grand Rapids. Your fee includes propane and propane lantern, firewood and gas for the generator, plus use of boat, life vests and oars. Property has a fire ring, picnic table, grill and charcoal, sanitary outhouse and ample parking. Cabin has a microwave, Keurig, wood stove, futon, loft with full size bed, 5-gallon thermos of water, and electricity from a generator. No running water or kitchen. We provide twin sheets and pillow for the futon. We also make the full size bed in the loft.

4. The Cedar Lodge and Cabins

4 sites · Tents · New Paris, OH

We are thrilled to share our cozy tiny cabins with you all!! The Cedar Lodge & Cabins 🌲Lakefront Cabin, Floating Tiny Home 📍90 miles from Indy, Cincy, & Columbus 🪵Your weekend getaway is waiting! Our property is tucked away in the small village of New Paris in Southwestern Ohio, with wooded grounds and a picturesque pond - and plenty of birding opportunities, we've been told!

5. Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

99%

(212)

1 site · Tent, RV · Cuyahoga Falls, OH

We are a small goat farm located within minutes of Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Sarah’s Vineyard. There are many activities nearby such as hiking trails, bike paths, metro parks, fishing, kayaking, river floating, swimming and even train rides. Our farm allows for hands-on contact with our animals, along with many other activities for younger kids to enjoy during their stay. We welcome tent campers, tree hammocks, small RVs and small/mid-size campers. We also welcome friendly, leashed pups. ***Please note that we are a working farm, and that we may have scheduled farm visits during the hours of 10-4 daily.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Paul

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

Chuck's cabin is awesome! It's rustic, cozy, and was made with love. Would 100% recommend. I filmed my visit there, you can find it at @AYearInOhio on YouTube, upload was 12/21/2025. I'll be back, Chuck!

L

Luis

November 2025

1 night at Uncle Chuck's Cabin

I stay with them often and they're super accommodating

Jordan

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds

We loved our stay at hilltop resorts! The cabin was so cute and very clean. Definitely would stay here again

E

Elliot

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

We had a great time! We have trouble finding spots for winter camping and this space was great. We actually forgot our tent poles so the trip could have needed a lot of adapting- but with the access to the barn, we were able to set up inside. Facilities & amenities were clean & as described. Loved watching the animals in the morning and setting up my hammock back by the chickens. Allison was a fantastic host. Would absolutely stay here again!

T

Tomohisa

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

Cabin was well maintained, clean, and had all the amenities. Would recommend.

Jessica

November 2025

22 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

Great spot located right by CVNP. We enjoyed the campfire and laughed every time a goat would remind us we weren’t alone by sneezing. Even though the sun set early and the cool fall air filled the night we had fun. The barn was a nice surprise and good location for a small party. Woke up in the middle of the night to pee (very clean port-a-potty) and the stars were so clear and bright!

S

Sara

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Uncle Chuck's Cabin

The dogs and I had a very peaceful stay at Uncle Chuck's cabin! The highlights were the sunrises over the river, all the birds and birdcalls, the wood stove that kept the cabin very cozy at night and just all of the conveniences they provide! Anya gave me a mug before we drove down to the cabin that was such a nice gift. Chuck gave me instructions on how to use everything when I got there which was very much appreciated. Overall just a very peaceful stay with lots of beautiful scenery, wildlife and conveniences.

K

Kathryn

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Appalachian Retreat Camp

The R Frame cabin was amazing! So cozy and well designed with great amenities. I packed a bit heavier than I needed to, considering almost everything I needed was available there. I will definitely be back.

J

James

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

We just loved the cabin. It was very peaceful, and very nice! Uncle Chuck was a great host too. Showed us everything we needed to know, and was just an all around nice man. I would definitely recommend this place.

E

Elizabeth

November 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds

We loved camping at Hilltop over Halloween weekend. We went hiking in Hocking Hills on Saturday and had trick or treaters and decorated and won the best decorated contest! Karen was very thoughtful and had breakfast on Saturday morning. The only thing that I would change is the site itself. Some weren’t level but we adjusted our camper to be level. Bath house was great and clean with showers. We loved the dog park all fenced in at the top.

C

Carolyn

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Uncle Chuck's Cabin

We needed a nice warm place to stay in late October & Chuck’s cabin was perfect! Chuck met us on arrival & showed us around the site. There is a generator for electricity to the microwave. The cabin was right by the river. Beautiful view! The wood burning stove was nice & toasty & Chuck has a nice dry supply of firewood behind cabin. The cabin is nicely decorated with fun fun & interesting signs. We left our fridge charger there & Anya was so kind as to mail it back to us! Highly recommend this place!!

C

Casey

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Uncle Chuck's Cabin

What a wonderful place to get away. My wife and I needed ao badly time away from our demanding lufes. At Chucks llace we escaped to peace and quite with the most beautiful and romantic backdrop. What an amazing host that provides way above and beyond in cabin amenities. Such a lovely experience.

Back in water & electric (NO SEWER) - firepit & picnic table included.

T

Trent

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Hilltop Resorts and Campgrounds

We really had a great time there. It was a perfect base camp for our adventures at the state park in the area. We were only there a couple of days, but we were quite impressed.

M

Mike

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Appalachian Retreat Camp

Wife and I had all we needed at the Nature Camper. Camper has water, hot water, stove, oven, fridge, microwave, and a Solo Firepit on the private deck. Lots of charm inside, more like a tiny house with completely new appliances and birch walls. Best of all you are on 500 private acres. We hiked part of the 10 miles of trails in total privacy. Site also has huge grassy tent area you can expand into with large fire-pit - comes with the camper so no neighbors. Owner’s family goes back to the original log cabin, that is still there off one of the trails. Owner has made his own private preserve, He was interesting, respectful and responsive. Camper pdf had all the details you need. Easy drive to Marietta Ohio River historic areas, shopping, dining, activities, and Wayne NF trails. No cell or WiFi but it comes in as you drive down the road. Unplug and enjoy!

Chill on your small deck surrounded by trees.

C

Christiana

October 2025

1 night at Appalachian Retreat Camp

I wish we’d had more time to explore the Appalachian Retreat. It was a lovely and lush piece of land and the little a-frame was very cute and comfortable. I appreciated all of the cool design features of the cabins and outhouse. We only arrived late at night, slept well and had to head out in the morning.

C

Chiara

October 2025

24 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

A lovely place with very welcoming hosts, both human and animal 😊

T

Thomas

October 2025

19 ft Class B

1 night at Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

We enjoyed our stay though we were late to arrive an early to depart for a meeting in a N.E. Cleveland suburb. It was easy to find in the dark and the goats were fun after breakfast. If you have children it would be especially nice. In our case, our Great Pyrenees enjoyed meeting new friends.

K

Ken

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Appalachian Retreat Camp

Really cute A-Frame with everything you need to enjoy a time away. The property has many trails to explore and plenty to see without ever getting in your car. The cabin was comfortable and equipped with many nice add ons, aside from the occasional expected creepy crawler. Nice small generator that kept all of our devices charged, and a nice bathroom and comfy bed. Definitely recommend!

Eli

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Appalachian Retreat Camp

What a killer spot. Lizzies RV Retreat is peaceful, remote, and just about perfect. The dark skies are unreal for stargazing, and the camping area has everything you could want. Fire pit, composting toilet, elevated deck for tent campers, cooking tools, and even a 50 amp hookup for those of us who like a little juice in the trailer. The property backs right up to Wayne National Forest with trails leading straight out from camp. There are vernal pools to check out and plenty of wildlife. Coyotes howling, owls hooting, and total quiet otherwise. You’re only about 15 minutes from Marietta too, where you can grab a drink and some great food at Black Diamond Distillery or hit up the local shops downtown. Jay was an awesome host. Super friendly, stopped by to chat, shared some cool history about the land, and showed us his on site camper that he remodeled from top to bottom. It looks fantastic and is available to rent. Jay rides too, so for the motorcyclists out there, this spot is perfect for motorcycle camping. Routes like 26 and 800 are nearby and make for some great rides. Highly recommend. Can’t wait to go back.

J

Joy

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Goat Farm Hide-Away CVNP

Had another great stay here! Love the goats and the location! The host is great and we would definitely stay here again!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping in Ohio guide

Where to go

Great Lakes Plains

Sandy beaches and island getaways dot the 312-mile shore of Lake Erie, stretching from Toledo through Cleveland to Conneaut. East Harbor State Park is a highlight of the Lake Erie Birding Trail, and birders flock to nearby Maumee Bay State Park during the spring warbler migration. The most scenic spots for summer camping are on the islands, and regular ferries set out for the Bass Islands and Kelleys Island state parks.

Till Plains

Cornfields and farmlands blanket Ohio’s central region, but there are also more than a dozen state parks within a short drive of Columbus. The limestone gorges of John Bryan State Park harbor some of the region’s best hiking trails, while to the north, the Mohican River is one of Ohio’s top spots for canoeing. For beaches, boating, and lakeside campgrounds, Indian Lake State Park and Alum Creek State Park are both popular choices.

Appalachian Plateau

East of the Till Plains, the patchwork farmlands of Amish Country lead the way to the state’s only national park, Cuyahoga Valley. This is where Ohio’s adventurous spirit comes into its own—take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Railroad, go ziplining or caving in the Hocking Hills State Park, or enjoy backcountry camping in the heart of the Wayne National Forest.

Bluegrass Region

Rambling woodlands and steep cliffs line the banks of the Ohio River in the state’s southernmost region. Just outside Cincinnati, East Fork State Park has one of the largest state campgrounds in Ohio, while the rugged landscapes of the Shawnee State Park are just a 2-hour drive from the city. For hikers, the ultimate challenge is the North Country National Scenic Trail, which cuts through southern Ohio.