Let me tell you, finding a good, clean dump station when you’re circling a major city like Cincinnati can feel like a real chore. You’re either stuck with sketchy-looking highway rest areas or paying an arm and a leg for a day pass at a private resort you have no intention of using. That’s why Miami Whitewater Forest Campground in Harrison, Ohio, has become one of my little secret weapons for this part of the country. It’s not just a place to empty the tanks; it’s a destination that actually makes the task feel like a pleasant part of the journey. Tucked away inside the sprawling Miami Whitewater Forest, this place is a breath of fresh air, literally. You’re pulling in off I-74, expecting the usual concrete jungle, and instead, you’re greeted by over 4,600 acres of prairie, a beautiful 85 acre lake, and miles of trails. It turns a ten minute task into a potential hour long nature retreat.
Getting there is a piece of cake. Harrison is situated perfectly on the northwest shoulder of Cincinnati, right on the Indiana state line. This makes it a fantastic staging ground. We’ve used it as a basecamp to dive into the Queen City for a day. You can get your fill of that famous Cincinnati chili, catch a Reds game at the Great American Ball Park, or just take a scenic walk across the iconic Roebling Suspension Bridge. But don’t sleep on Harrison itself. It’s got that small town charm with some great local breweries and a nice golf course. The big draw for us, though, is the Shaker Trace Trail. It’s a paved 7.8 mile loop that winds through restored wetlands, and if you’re a bird watcher, you’ll be in heaven. It’s an easy, flat ride, perfect for shaking off the road weariness after a long drive. If your travels are taking you south toward Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, this spot is also a great last stop in Ohio before you cross the river.
Now, let’s talk about the dump station itself. Because this is a public campground and not a frantic truck stop, the whole experience is much more relaxed. The approach lanes are wide and designed for rigs of all sizes, so you won’t be white knuckling it trying to squeeze your 40 footer into a tight spot. You’ll need to check in at the front gate when you arrive. For non campers, there’s usually a small fee, which is more than fair for what you get. The dump pad is a single lane setup, but traffic is rarely an issue, especially if you time it right. It’s smartly designed with a gentle slope, so gravity does most of the work for you when emptying the black tank. There’s a dedicated rinse spigot available, which is a huge plus, but I always preach this: bring your own hoses. You’ll want a dedicated non potable water hose for rinsing your black tank and sewer hose, and it’s good to have at least 25 feet, maybe even 50, just to be safe. You never know how far you’ll need to reach.
When it comes to amenities, this place punches above its weight for a public park. The availability of potable water right next to the dump port is a game changer. It means you can do the dirty work and then immediately top off your fresh water tank before heading back out on the road or deeper into the park. If you decide the scenery is too good to leave, they have 46 sites with 30 amp electric hookups. The shower and restroom facilities have also been recently refurbished, and it shows. The bathhouse is clean, modern, and has plenty of hot water, which feels like a luxury after a few days of boondocking.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind, though. The park has a strict no pets rule for this particular camping loop. This can be a deal breaker for those of us who travel with a furry copilot. You’ll have to find another spot within the larger forest for them to stretch their legs. Also, there’s no gas or propane on site, so make sure you’re fueled up before you pull in. Harrison is just a few miles away and has plenty of stations. And finally, there isn’t a trash dumpster right at the dump pad. You’ll need to either pack out your trash or use one of the main dumpsters located near the trailheads. Just keep an eye out for the signs.
As for the cost, you’ll need to call the Great Parks of Hamilton County to get the current rate for non campers, as it’s not posted online. I’d budget for something in the $10 to $15 range, which is pretty standard for Ohio campgrounds. In my book, that’s a fantastic value. You’re getting a clean, well maintained facility with easy access to potable water and decent bathrooms, all in a beautiful setting. Private parks can easily charge you $20 or more for the same privilege.
For a smooth visit, a little planning goes a long way. Always call ahead, especially if you’re traveling in the shoulder seasons. You want to verify their hours and make sure the water hasn’t been shut off for the winter. It’s also just smart to confirm the fee. And as always, arrive prepared. Have your nitrile gloves, a clear sewer elbow, and your rinse hoses ready to go. My pro tip is to aim for a mid morning visit on a weekday. The overnight campers have usually cleared out, and the weekend warriors haven’t arrived yet, so you’ll likely have the place to yourself.
So what's the final word? Miami Whitewater Forest Campground is a top tier stop. It offers a reliable and pleasant RV dump station experience that’s just a quick detour from the interstate and Cincinnati’s urban core. The combination of essential services like electric and fresh water with the bonus of a gorgeous natural setting makes it a real winner. Just be mindful of the pet policy and remember to call ahead. Empty your tanks, take a deep breath of fresh air, and maybe even stay for a hike. This is one of those spots that reminds you why you got into RVing in the first place.
9001 Mt Hope Rd, Harrison, OH 45030
(513) 367-9632
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
greatparks.org/miami-whitewater-forest/miami-whitewater-forest-campground