Cedar Ridge Backcountry Campsite

For local users seeking a more secluded and primitive "camping near me" experience, the Cedar Ridge Backcountry Campsite, located at 7511 Creek Rd in Germantown, Ohio (45327, USA), offers a unique opportunity for backpacking within the scenic Five Rivers Metroparks. It's important to note upfront that this is a "primitive backpacking campsite" and requires a permit for use, obtainable from Five Rivers Metroparks. According to a recent visitor, the permit cost was reasonable, with potential discounts for weekdays and the off-season. This campsite caters to individuals or small groups looking for a more self-sufficient camping experience, emphasizing a connection with nature and a departure from developed campgrounds.

The environment of Cedar Ridge Backcountry Campsite is characterized by its natural setting within Five Rivers Metroparks. The mention of needing to hike to access water from the river suggests a location that is somewhat removed from easily accessible water sources, highlighting the backcountry nature of the site. However, the park itself is described as "beautiful" and "well maintained," indicating an overall pleasant natural environment. The campsite features "3 campsites with room for 1-2 small tents each," suggesting a limited capacity and an intimate camping experience. There is also a "common area for cooking/eating," fostering a sense of community among the potentially few groups staying at the site. The presence of a "pole with hooks to hang your food bag/backpack/lantern" at each campsite is a thoughtful feature for backcountry camping, aiding in food storage and organization. The absence of allowed fires necessitates bringing a camp stove for cooking. The surrounding area offers opportunities for exploration, with one reviewer mentioning having to walk about half a mile to reach the river for water, implying a degree of natural terrain and vegetation.

In terms of services and features, Cedar Ridge Backcountry Campsite provides basic amenities suitable for primitive camping:

• Three individual campsites, each accommodating 1-2 small tents. This limited capacity ensures a more secluded experience.
• A common area designated for cooking and eating, providing a central space for these activities.
• A latrine for waste disposal, a basic but essential facility for a backcountry setting.
• Poles with hooks at each campsite for hanging food bags, backpacks, and lanterns, a practical feature for organization and safety in the wilderness.

A significant point to reiterate is the lack of on-site potable water. Campers must either pack in all the water they need or be prepared to collect water from the river and purify it before consumption. This requires appropriate gear and knowledge of water purification techniques. The "no fires allowed" rule necessitates the use of camp stoves for cooking, so campers need to bring their own stove and fuel.

Positive aspects highlighted by a reviewer include the cleanliness and maintenance of the campsite ("very clean and well maintained"). The reviewer also appreciated having the place to themselves and noted the ample space between campsites, offering privacy if there were other campers present. The lack of significant bug or critter issues during their stay was also a plus. The requirement of a permit from Five Rivers Metroparks ensures some level of management and potentially limits the number of users, contributing to the clean and well-maintained condition.

However, a notable downside mentioned by a reviewer is the noise from nearby roads, specifically SR 725 (about 0.4 miles away) and Creek Rd. (0.1 miles away). The reviewer experienced significant motorcycle noise in the evening and also heard gunshots from across the river around sunset. While the park itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained, the proximity to roads introduces a potential source of noise pollution that local users seeking a truly tranquil experience should be aware of. The occurrence of gunshots, although perhaps infrequent, is another factor to consider regarding the sound environment.

To utilize the Cedar Ridge Backcountry Campsite, local users need to obtain a permit from Five Rivers Metroparks. The cost was mentioned as $10, with potential discounts for weekdays and the off-season. Interested individuals should contact Five Rivers Metroparks directly at (937) 277-4374 to inquire about the permit process, current fees, and any specific regulations for the backcountry campsite. It would also be prudent to ask about the best and safest locations to access and purify water from the river, as well as any guidelines regarding waste disposal and Leave No Trace principles.

In conclusion, Cedar Ridge Backcountry Campsite offers a primitive "camping near me" experience for local users seeking a backpacking adventure within Five Rivers Metroparks. Its limited number of campsites, common cooking area, and pole hooks for gear provide basic amenities for a self-sufficient outing. The beauty and maintenance of the park are significant advantages, as is the potential for a secluded experience. However, the lack of potable water on-site and the potential for noise from nearby roads are important considerations. Obtaining a permit from Five Rivers Metroparks is mandatory. Local users who are comfortable with primitive camping, prepared to handle their own water and cooking needs, and are aware of the potential for some noise might find this backcountry campsite a rewarding way to immerse themselves in nature close to home. Contacting Five Rivers Metroparks directly is essential to secure a permit and gather all necessary information for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Cedar Ridge Backcountry Campsite

7511 Creek Rd, Germantown, OH 45327, USA