Sterling State Park spans over 1,300 acres along Lake Erie with paved campsites accommodating vehicles up to 50 feet in length. Most sites have limited shade as trees are still maturing in this park that sits between the Fermi nuclear power plant and a coal-powered DTE facility. The campground experiences high winds frequently due to its lakefront location, with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F during the main camping season from April through October.
What to do
Kayaking the protected inlet: Launch from Sterling State Park's dedicated inlet that provides calm waters before reaching the beach. "The park also has several public access areas and beaches. Hiking and biking trails are also present and the bathroom facilities are clean and well maintained," notes Edward C., who adds a seasonal warning: "Some time in June you can expect May Flies aka Fish Flies. Plan accordingly."
Biking to historical sites: Sterling State Park Campground offers several miles of paved trails connecting to significant landmarks. "There is a bike path that will take you all the way to the Historic Rasin River Battlefield and then to downtown Monroe," says Frances V., who appreciates the connectivity to cultural attractions without leaving the park system.
Go-karting and mini-golf: Harbortown RV Resort offers family activities right next to the campground. "Next door to putt putt go karts batting cages and arcade - this was pricey but fun," reports Kourtney D. Another camper, Beth G., confirms: "Nice campground - clean with many pull through sites. Right next to camping is go karts, putt putt and arcade. We had a blast!"
What campers like
Sandy beach access: While many glamping sites near Newport, Michigan offer lake views, Sterling State Park provides direct beach access. "Sandy beach on Lake Erie is very nice," reports Joe S., while another camper notes, "Beach is kept fairly clean and raked often."
Full hookup options: Modern amenities make luxury camping and glamping at Newport-area campgrounds practical for extended stays. "All of the sites in this park have 30amp electric while also boasting quite a few sites with full hookup. Every site has a blacktop pad for parking or trailer setup, with many pull thru sites available," explains Frances V.
Clean facilities: Maumee Bay State Park Campground maintains excellent bathhouses according to multiple reviewers. "Very clean, however, bathhouses are shared between two loops. Each bathhouse only has two shower stalls, which may necessitate a wait when the campground is full," notes Lee D., who appreciates the "good warm water" despite limited shower space.
What you should know
Sites vary in privacy and shade: At glamping locations near Newport, site selection significantly impacts experience. "Nice, well maintained park. The shower house is clean and in good condition," says Joe S. about Sterling State Park, while Nicole A. cautions, "most trees are immature offering little shade."
May flies arrive in summer: Seasonal insect hatches affect all Lake Erie shore camping. "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid June) and covered everything," reports Kourtney D., warning glampers to prepare for these annual visitors.
Train and highway noise: At Camp Lord Willing RV Park & Campground, noise can impact sleep quality. Nearby Harbortown experiences similar issues, with one camper reporting: "Another big issue is how close it is to the expressway which is noisy and there are trains that go by during the night. They blew the horn for 5+ minutes at 4:30am."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park provides recreational facilities for children. "Nice campgrounds easy to get around and my children loved it," reports Amber P., though another camper notes the grounds can be "tight" with limited privacy between sites.
Opt for weekdays: When glamping close to Newport, Michigan with children, timing matters. "During the week only one shower house was open, they opened them all in the weekend," notes Kourtney D. about Harbortown RV Resort, suggesting less crowded facilities midweek.
Beware muddy conditions: Spring and after rainfall, sites can become challenging. "Sites feel a bit small but still very nice," mentions Beth G. about Harbortown, while another camper at Sterling State Park notes "The sites are all in full sun, with not much privacy between them, but most campers are respectful."
Tips from RVers
Book full-hookup sites early: Kelleys Island State Park Campground offers premium waterfront sites that fill quickly. "Yurts are available for rent. Accommodates RV, tent and group camping, although tent spots can be cramped. But nothing beats a lake view spot!" advises Erin H.
Level concrete pads available: Many glamping options near Newport feature improved pads. "All concrete roads and pads. Basketball court, sand volleyball, playground, dog run, batting cages and go karts within walking distance," notes Bill B. about Harbortown RV Resort.
Site size considerations: "This park will accommodate any size travel trailer, fifth wheel camper of any kind, the pull throughs are huge," explains Mano P. about Sterling State Park, making it ideal for larger rigs seeking glamping accommodations with modern amenities.
