Explore your wild side this fall by spending an evening under the stars! With the cooler temps and colorful leaves, fall is perhaps the best time of year for a camping adventure.
Five Rivers MetroParks offers 23 tent camping sites at four parks. Frontcountry campsites are easily accessible by car, and hike-in backcountry sites are for the more adventurous camper. Both allow you to unplug just a short drive from home.
Campsites are close to great park amenities, such as hiking, fishing, paddling, geocaching and more. Recently, all frontcountry sites were updated with new or improved picnic tables, fire rings and firewood boxes. Options are available for families, groups and individuals at these primitive sites that include a vault toilet, fire ring and picnic table. Bring gear, food and water; a limited supply of firewood is provided.
Frontcountry camping is available in these MetroParks:
- Possum Creek MetroPark has five easily accessible campsites near fishing ponds, hiking trails, the historical Argonne forest and a sustainable farm where you can visit chickens, sheep, a donkey and other farm animals.
- Englewood MetroPark offers four sites near woodlands, meadows and waterfalls. Hike 20 miles of trails, fish and paddle in the Stillwater River, play disc golf, enjoy a nature playground and collect fossils.
- Germantown MetroPark’s sites offer remote and nature-filled experiences. Hike 14 miles of trails, collect fossils, fish and enjoy the amazing sights of the Twin Valley.
- The historical Camp Hook area at Twin Creek MetroPark has three campsites with access to the park’s extensive hiking trail system.
Permits are required for camping and fees vary. Make reservations online at metroparks.org or call (937) 275-PARK (7275) during normal business hours.
Family Camping Tips and Tricks
- Set up a tent in your backyard to test out your gear and get comfortable sleeping outside with the amenities of home just a few steps away.
- Several local places rent camping equipment. Check out the full list at outdoordayton.com.
- Keep things organized using colored or labeled bags, tubs and stuff sacks so you can quickly find kitchen utensils or flashlights.
