As the gates close for the season at Chestnut Ridge Campground, many campers already find themselves missing the warmth of a crackling fire and the peace of waking up in nature. But the end of the camping season doesn’t mean the end of outdoor fun. In fact, winter can be a great time to reset, recharge, and stay connected to the activities you love most.
If you’re wondering how to keep the camping spirit alive until spring, here are some easy and enjoyable ways to stay outdoorsy all winter long.
1. Take Advantage of Ohio’s Winter Trails
You don’t need a tent or RV to get outside in the colder months. Ohio is full of beautiful winter-friendly hiking options, offering quiet trails, wildlife viewing, and stunning snowy scenery. Even short walks at your local park help keep the outdoor habit going.
- Dress in warm layers to stay comfortable.
- Start slow — winter hiking can feel different at first.
- Bring a thermos of hot cocoa, tea, or coffee to sip on the trail.
2. Make Camp-Inspired Meals at Home
If you miss campfire cooking, you’re not alone! Winter is the perfect time to recreate some of your favorite camping meals at home. Think:
- foil packet meals baked in the oven
- camp-style chili or hearty stews
- cast iron skillet recipes
- indoor s’mores (yes, they are a thing!)
Cooking comfort foods can bring back those cozy fall memories, even if you’re not gathered around the fire.
3. Plan Your 2026 Camping Adventures
The off-season is one of the best times to start planning next year’s getaways. With fewer time constraints and no rush to book last-minute, you can take your time reviewing your favorite sites and making a camping wishlist for next season.
- Think about which weekends you want to reserve early.
- Make a list of new experiences you’d like to try.
- Check Chestnut Ridge Campground’s website for updates over the winter.
Starting early gives you the best chance to snag your preferred dates when reservations reopen.
4. Keep Your Gear in Good Shape
Winter is a great time to clean, organize, and check your gear so everything is ready when the next season rolls around. This might include:
- checking your sleeping bags and blankets for wear
- cleaning out coolers and storage tubs
- replacing old lanterns, headlamps, or batteries
- sorting through kitchen bins and tools
A quick tune-up now makes your first trip next year feel effortless.
5. Try a New Outdoor Hobby
Winter doesn’t have to mean staying inside. Many campers use the cold season to pick up or revisit fun outdoor hobbies like:
- birdwatching
- nature photography
- geocaching
- winter stargazing
You can stay connected to the outdoors without needing to be at a campsite.
6. Stay Connected with Fellow Campers
Part of the fun of camping is the community — seeing familiar faces and sharing stories by the fire. Stay connected over the winter by following your favorite campgrounds on social media or joining camping groups where people share photos, recipes, and gear recommendations.
7. Follow Chestnut Ridge Campground for Updates
We may be closed for the season, but we’re still here behind the scenes! Stay tuned to our website and Facebook page throughout the winter for updates, announcements, and information about the 2026 season. We look forward to welcoming you back when the weather warms and the woods come alive again.
Until Spring…
Just because camping season has ended doesn’t mean the adventure has to. By embracing a few outdoor habits and planning ahead, you can keep the spirit of camping alive all winter long. From all of us at Chestnut Ridge Campground — stay warm, stay adventurous, and we’ll see you next season!
