Lake Erie State Park sits on a bluff 80 feet above Lake Erie, providing elevated views of the lake shoreline. The Ripley area spans both forested and lakefront terrain with camping season typically running May through October when temperatures average 75°F during summer days. Winter camping options are extremely limited with most facilities closing completely.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Erie State Park Campground offers lake access for anglers with multiple species available. "We saw lots of wildlife (black squirrels, rabbits and birds)," notes one visitor who enjoyed exploring the natural surroundings.
Kid-friendly amenities: The playground areas provide entertainment for younger campers. According to one guest at Sparrow Pond Family Campground: "We stayed here because it was fairly close to Presque Isle and the price was very reasonable for the area... from our site, we had a beautiful view of the pond."
Water activities: Swimming and kayaking options vary by location. "The lake was one of the coolest lakes I've ever seen and the sites are beautiful right on the lake," reports a Lake Erie State Park visitor, highlighting the water recreation potential.
Trail exploration: Wooded paths near many cabin sites allow for nature walks. "The campground is FANTASTIC! When you think State Park there is almost always a compromise, but not here," states one camper about the maintained trail system.
What campers like
Lake views: Many cabins offer direct sightlines to Lake Erie. As one visitor noted: "Short walk from campsite to the lake. Try to see sunset!" The elevated shoreline creates optimal viewing conditions at certain locations.
Spacious sites: Chautauqua Lake KOA receives praise for roomy accommodations. "This campground is very well taken care of, and huge! We did not take advantage of all of the amenities available, but the bathroom was great. It was a single room with toilet and shower - and it was incredibly clean," reports one camper.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses stand out in reviews. "The bathrooms and showers are very clean. The staff is very friendly," notes a camper from Sparrow Pond Family Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report animal sightings from their cabin sites. One Lake Erie State Park visitor shared: "Beautiful grassy fields right by campsites. Full park but still quiet with good spacing between outer ring spots."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends require booking weeks in advance at most cabin locations. "Tip: you can book a solo night day of online. Otherwise it's two night minimum. There were plenty of spots available when I stayed on a Wednesday night," advises one Lake Erie State Park visitor.
Water access variations: Cabin proximity to shorelines differs significantly. A visitor to Erie KOA noted: "Kids loved seeing the giant teepees. Pool is clean and centrally located. It's a bonus that they have food available to buy like burgers and hot dogs!"
Noise considerations: Some locations experience higher activity levels. "The campground was busy, but not over-crowded," reports one camper, while another mentions: "Our fellow camping neighbors were very loud and partied for a lot of the night. Their dogs were barking all night."
Site selection importance: Research individual cabin locations before booking. "Definitely a campground that you want to scope out the sites before choosing. The park was great, the campground was okay," advises a Lake Erie State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Allegany State Park offers multiple recreation options. "We enjoyed the hiking trails and the beach with a new modern beach house. There were lots of nature programs put on by the park," reports one family.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Fun little campground with friendly staff and wide open spaces. Clean bathrooms, great pool, fun little game room. The playground got 2 thumbs up from a 4 and 6 year old," notes a visitor to Erie KOA.
Cabin selection for groups: Choose locations with adjacent units for multi-family trips. "Great trails, a lot of them, we hit 2, we will be back," mentions an Allegany State Park visitor who appreciated the family-friendly trail system.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup logistics: Many cabins share water access points. A Lake Erie State Park visitor explains: "The water hookups are NOT at each site, but there is one CLOSE to each site, so you can run your house over, fill your tank, and disconnect."
Site leveling considerations: Presque Isle Passage RV Park requires preparation. "Nothing special. Sites are not level and are close to each other. They do have a pool but that's it," reports one RV camper, highlighting the need to bring leveling equipment.
Supply availability: Most campgrounds offer limited on-site purchasing options. "Clean facilities, friendly, wooded, and many rentals including 2 yurts," notes a visitor to Presque Isle Passage, mentioning the additional accommodation options beyond standard cabins.
