Managed by the City of Akron, Headwaters Park campground sits within the city-run park of the same name outside Middlefield and gives campers access to lake, creek, and river terrain at rates between $10 and $20 per night. Sites include picnic tables and fire pits, with pull-in parking directly adjacent to each tent site and lean-to. No electricity or plumbing is available, and the restrooms are outhouse-style. Campers report that noise carries between sites, so neighbors have a noticeable effect on overnight comfort. Site G, an open lean-to with a stone fireplace, books out faster than others. Watercraft rentals are available in the park, though checking availability in advance is recommended. Those wanting a more developed setting can look at Punderson State Park Campground to the southwest.
Description
Headwaters Park is a 926-acre reservation located in Claridon and Huntsburg townships. The property is leased by Geauga Park District from the City of Akron in a partnership that allows for conservation of natural areas, enjoyment by park visitors, and outdoor education and passive recreation. It is Geauga Park District's intent to mange this natural area and to protect the water quality for aquatic life and downstream neighbors. Prior to 1932, the east branch of the Cuyahoga River meandered through a lush ravine as it made its way through Claridon and Huntsburg townships. Picnickers enjoyed many summer afternoons along it's banks; vacationers escaped to cottages nestled around adjacent Crystal Lake and along the river's edge. When the City of Akron began purchasing land in Geauga County in 1932, the cottages and neighboring farmhouses were moved and a dam was built to impound the waters in East Branch Reservoir. Having secured a stable water supply for the businesses and homes in their community, City of Akron officials opened the reservoir and surrounding land to local residents in 1959. In 1996, Geauga Park District's Board of Park Commissioners signed an agreement to lease the land and reservoir, and renamed the area Headwaters Park because of its location at the upper reaches of the Cuyahoga River. Visitor activities are regulated by Geauga Park District in accordance with the City of Akron in order to achieve mutual stewardship goals of protecting natural resources and water quality. Camping is available by permit in the designated tent pad or lean-to sites. Reservations for all facilities can be made online or by calling the Park District office.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHeadwaters Park is located in Ohio near Middlefield
Directions
From Erie and points north: Travel Old State Road (Route 608) approximately 2.2 miles south of Route 322/Mayfield Road. Park entrance is on the east side of the road. A second parking area is located on Mayfield Road, about 0.6 miles east of Route 608. From Akron and points south: Travel Route 608 approximately 3.3 miles north of Kinsman Road (Route 87). Park entrance is on the east side of the road. From Cleveland and points west: Travel I-90 E to I-271 S. Exit US-322 E toward Mayfield Hts. Right on Old State Road/OH-608. Park entrance is on east side of road
Coordinates
41.50493896 N
81.10084182 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
Verizon5GGood Coverage- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- Verizon5GGood Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 47 min from Cleveland, OH
- 48 min from Youngstown, OH
- 57 min from Akron, OH
- 1 hr 10 min from Canton, OH
