Monroe County's camping options extend beyond Lake Erie's shoreline into a network of inland waterways and recreational areas. Most campgrounds sit at elevations below 700 feet in a largely flat landscape characterized by former glacial lakebeds. Spring and fall camping typically offers temperatures between 50-75°F, while summer can bring humidity levels reaching 85-90% with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Kayaking on inland waterways: At River Raisin Canoe Livery & Campground, visitors can launch directly from the dock. "This is also a kayak and canoe Livery so they have boats on site or you can bring you own and launch from their dock," notes Phillip S. The campground provides river access for paddlers seeking a quieter alternative to Lake Erie.
Birding at wetland trails: Spring migration brings diverse bird species through the Monroe area. "A beautiful and extensive boardwalk constructed by the Ohio Civilian Conservation Corps is available only for foot traffic," reports Lee D. about Maumee Bay State Park Campground. Birders should pack binoculars during April-May for optimal viewing.
Fishing at multiple locations: Fishing ponds supplement Lake Erie access at several sites. "It has a boat launch which is extremely popular and the bass and walleye fishing can't be beat. No boat, no problem. The park has several fishing piers as well as a kayak launch into a small inlet," notes Kourtney D. about Sterling State Park.
What campers like
Shade coverage for summer camping: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds. Nicole A. notes, "Sites are nice and large paved slabs, most trees are immature offering little shade." In contrast, Harbortown RV Resort offers "clean bathrooms and shower rooms. Wood delivery is great! Friendly staff!" according to Ryan R.
Private sites despite proximity: Some campgrounds manage privacy despite close spacing. About Maumee Bay, Kayla H. notes, "One of my favorite things about this campground is that your spots are close together which is great for safety, however with the bushes and brush, it feels super private. My grandparents were in the site next to me in their camper and I had to walk a ways to see their spot."
Fall and Halloween camping: Several Monroe-area campgrounds offer seasonal events. "I've been going to this campground for years, but mainly for the Halloween camping. It's a fun time of the year to go and the kids always have a blast. Most sites decorate and some site go all out with haunted houses," shares Ryan M. about Monroe-Toledo North KOA.
What you should know
May flies hatch impacts: Campers should prepare for seasonal insect activity. "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid June) and covered everything," warns Kourtney D. at Sterling State Park Campground. Long-sleeve shirts and insect repellent are recommended during peak hatching periods.
Highway and train noise: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. "Another big issue is how close it is to the expressway which is noisy and there are trains that go by during the night. There must be a few crossings near by because they blew the horn for 5+ minutes at 4:30am," reports Trent T. about Harbortown RV Resort.
Campground flooding concerns: Heavy rains can impact site conditions at some locations. Jeffrey R. notes about Maumee Bay: "We stayed there in early May, we didn't have reservations so they had three sites open. We took the driest spot we could find. The ground was soft and marshy."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Different swimming areas suit various age groups. "The campground has easy access to the beach on Lake Erie. There are full hookups as well as power only sites. The park also has several public access areas and beaches," shares Edward C. about Sterling State Park. However, not all campgrounds allow swimming—River Raisin Canoe Livery notes "No swimming not ideal For kids."
Playground facilities: Wilderness Campground features "a fishing pond, little store, pavilion, basketball hoops, jumping pad for kids, playground and more for kids to do," according to Danielle B. Several campgrounds maintain dedicated children's areas with varying equipment types.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular programming. "Donuts and muffins on the weekends" are available at Maumee Bay according to Lee D., while Jess P. adds they have "coffee and donuts every Saturday and Sunday for a small fee."
Tips from RVers
Campsite surfaces and levelness: Surface conditions vary widely between campgrounds. At Camp Lord Willing RV Park & Campground, "Lots are gravel" according to Korinne K. Mano P. notes Sterling State Park "will accommodate any size travel trailer, fifth wheel camper of any kind, the pull throughs are huge."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at some campgrounds. Bucky W. reports Wilderness Campground has "a couple pull through sites but most are back in and easily fit just about any rig. There are two bath houses and a dump station but no sewer."
Weather considerations: Wind and storms can impact larger rigs. Edward C. cautions, "Finally, I've never been to this park when it wasn't very windy," regarding Sterling State Park. Monroe-area campers should secure awnings during spring and fall when wind gusts frequently exceed 20 mph.
