Lake Erie's western shores near Erie, Michigan offer diverse camping options with water-focused amenities in a largely flat terrain. The proximity to Lake Erie means higher humidity levels in summer, with potential for sudden lake-effect weather changes. Camping experiences range from basic tent sites to platform yurts with amenities tailored for comfort during the region's four distinct seasons.
What to do
Biking on flat terrain: Sterling State Park Campground provides excellent paved paths for cyclists. "Bike and walking trails. Also has a smaller lake good for kayaking and fishing. It has a boat ramp to put into Lake Erie," notes camper Debra B. The level landscape makes this activity accessible for all skill levels.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Maumee Bay State Park Campground features extensive naturalist programs focused on local wildlife. "Bird houses and feeders are located throughout the park and especially in the spring, you can hear many varieties of birds chirping," shares Lee D. The park's wetland boardwalk provides premium wildlife spotting locations.
Kayaking in protected waters: The waters near Camp Lord Willing RV Park & Campground offer sheltered areas for beginning paddlers. "Stayed at Camp Lord Willing in June 2021 and it was a peaceful friendly environment," mentions Korinne K. Boat-in access makes this location particularly convenient for water enthusiasts.
Glacier viewing at Kelleys Island: The island features rare glacial grooves formed during the ice age. "Amazing small town feel with cute shops, family activities, world's largest glacier groves, shallow beach and fun history," writes Daniel U. These geological formations provide educational opportunities about the region's formation.
What campers like
Sandy beaches access: Sterling State Park Campground maintains clean swimming areas on Lake Erie. "Sandy beach on Lake Erie is very nice," notes Joe S. These beaches are regularly maintained and raked to ensure comfort for visitors.
Dark night skies for stargazing: Kelleys Island State Park Campground offers exceptional star viewing due to minimal light pollution. "No city lights and being in the middle of the lake means lots of stars, the sounds of water and being so dark you can barely see," reports Daniel U. The island location provides optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the layout at Maumee Bay. "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," says Kayla H. The natural vegetation creates buffer zones between camping areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing access points exist at Sterling State Park. "It has a boat ramp to put into Lake Erie. Not a lot of shade on the sites," shares Debra B. The park maintains both Lake Erie access and inland lake fishing spots.
What you should know
May fly season impacts: Be prepared for seasonal insect hatches at Sterling State Park. "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid June) and covered everything," warns Kourtney D. These hatches typically occur for 1-2 weeks each summer, primarily in June.
Island ferry logistics: South Bass Island State Park Campground requires planning for transportation. "If you do take your vehicle over note that the wait time to bring it back on a Sunday while usually 2 to 3 hours can also be up to 6 hours from when you get in line," cautions Stephen S. The Miller ferry stops running around 8pm.
Cell service variations: Coverage can be spotty on the islands. "Cell service is best downtown, I noticed my phone telling me I was in Canada while at the campgrounds but I was never charged an international fee," explains Rebecca F. at Kelleys Island State Park. Most mainland campgrounds maintain strong service.
Yurt booking windows: Yurt camping in Erie, Michigan area requires advance planning, especially at East Harbor State Park. "This campground was recommended by a co-worker for how private each site is," notes Daniel U. Yurt reservations typically open 6 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Harbortown RV Resort offers multiple recreation options. "This campground has everything! Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool, ext... If you have kids it is perfect!" shares Noel L. The facilities include on-site and adjacent attractions for children.
Treehouse camping options: Unique elevated accommodations are available at Cannaley Treehouse Village. "This little village was so much fun for my 2 little people! I think 1 night is plenty as the site itself doesn't offer a ton of amenities but there are some trails that you can walk/bike without leaving base," recommends Leah R. These structures provide novelty for families.
Weather preparation: Lake Erie's influence creates variable conditions. "My only tip would be to bring plenty of bug spray in the summer, there are lots of bugs that come off the lake. Also make sure you bring jackets and blankets, even in the summer it can get pretty cool in the evening," advises Kayla H. about Maumee Bay State Park.
Weekend activity scheduling: Harbortown RV Resort provides organized events. "Mother's day activities were great and were free!" notes Kourtney D. Many campgrounds in the region offer scheduled programming primarily on weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: East Harbor State Park Campground offers diverse camping areas. "The key is site selection at East Harbor...we happened to be in section C which was a newer section of the park. Section C was nice, though in hot sunny days there is very little shade to protect you," advises Mark S. Older sections provide more shade trees.
Hookup variations: Maumee Bay State Park offers different utility connections. "Sites 1-11 and 21-29 have full hookups (water, sewer, electric)," details Lee D. Most other sites provide electric-only connections.
Campground layout considerations: South Bass Island requires careful navigation. "The flattest RV sites with fair to good locations are Sites 57 and 44 (although even these will require a little leveling)," suggests T S. Many island sites have terrain variations requiring stabilizing equipment.
Seasonal campground timing: Extended-stay options exist at Harbor Town. "Stayed here for two weeks in October. Halloween weekends. this place is packed - but empties out Sunday Afternoons," observes Gordon D. Many RV parks in the region offer seasonal rates with significant discounts for longer stays.
