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Camping in Ohio: campsites, permits and passes

Camping in Ohio starts in one of a few places: Ohio State Parks (ReserveOhio) for state park campsites, Recreation.gov for federal campgrounds, or free dispersed camping on National Forest land. Here's where to book each, plus permits, passes and licences.

Most people go to:

State park campsites

Ohio state park campgrounds are booked through Ohio State Parks (ReserveOhio) ↗. Book as early as you can for summer and holiday weekends, and check each park's page for cabins, yurts, group sites and pet rules.

National parks in Ohio

• Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Campgrounds in national parks are booked on Recreation.gov. See every park, monument and historic site in Ohio on the National Park Service Ohio page ↗.

National forests and free camping

Ohio's national forests include Wayne. Developed campgrounds are booked on Recreation.gov (some are first-come, first-served), and most national forest land allows free dispersed camping away from developed sites, usually for up to 14 days. Check the forest's rules and any fire restrictions first.

Permits and lotteries

Most camping in Ohio doesn't need a special permit beyond your campsite reservation. Some wilderness areas, rivers and busy trailheads do; check the managing agency before you go.

Fishing and hunting licences

Licences for Ohio are sold by the Ohio Division of Wildlife ↗, online or at local retailers. Rules and seasons differ by species and water, so check before you go.

Passes

The America the Beautiful pass covers entrance fees at national parks and many federal lands in Ohio. State parks usually sell their own day or annual passes; see Ohio State Parks (ReserveOhio).

Best time to camp in Ohio

Late May to early October. Fall colour weekends book up early; winter camping is possible in some parks with heated cabins or yurts.

Questions

Packing checklists

Nearby states (Midwest)