Located about 40 miles south of Cleveland, Akron offers camping options set amid the rolling hills of northeastern Ohio, where elevations range from 900 to 1,300 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with warm, humid summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds near Akron operate from May through October, with some sites remaining open year-round for dedicated campers.
What to do
Fishing at local reservoirs: Countryside Campground in Mogadore provides direct access to the Mogadore Reservoir for anglers. One visitor noted, "A nice short walk takes you to Mogadore reservoir, no luck for us fishing from shore" while staying at Countryside Campground.
Visit nearby attractions: The Streetsboro-Cleveland KOA makes an ideal base for exploring regional highlights. A camper shared, "We stopped here for a couple nights to go to a Cleveland Guardians game and go to Cuyahoga National Park. It was within great proximity to both and had all the amenities the kids and I love" during their stay at Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA.
Walking trails access: Several campgrounds connect to local trail systems. According to one reviewer at Silver Springs, "There is also a wooded walking trail network on the east and North sides of the campground."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards for comfort. A visitor to Woodside Lake Park reported, "We stay here a couple of times per year and every time it's a blast. The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities. The place is clean and friendly."
Spacious sites: Room to spread out ranks high on campers' priority lists. One Countryside Campground guest mentioned, "The pull thru sites were a tad small but nice and long. Even with the sites close together it was quiet and peaceful."
Family activities: Campers appreciate scheduled events for children. A visitor to Jellystone Park Akron/Canton commented, "This place is AMAZING for families with kids! Tons of planned activities (about every hour) for everyone to enjoy. Huge pool, gem mine, mini golf, and homemade ice cream!"
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water issues to consider. One candid review for Woodside Lake Park warned, "I left after 2 months due to iron & sulfur laden well water that is provided in at least half the park. I spent hundreds of dollars trying to filter and clean up the water to no avail."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant rainfall in spring and summer. A camper at Heritage Farms shared their experience: "We ran into some unfortunate weather so didn't get the full experience. But... This is a very cute, unique spot that I'd love to try again sometime."
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. One Silver Springs visitor advised, "Use updated 2021 Website for reservations... Spoke with Department Office who was very helpful in pointing me to the current reservation web site."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Plan around campground events for maximum enjoyment. A camper at Clay's Resort Jellystone Park shared, "The activities here are endless! Fishing, volleyball, basketball, kayaking, zip lining in water with swimming (15 break every 45 min), mini golf, bounce trampoline pad, cornhole, etc! So much for every age."
Off-peak timing: Consider weekday visits for a quieter experience with kids. One Heritage Farms visitor observed, "I stayed here with some friends for one night and I would love to go back. Be prepared - you park near the front of the campgrounds to check in, and then you are provided wagons to carry your gear to your site."
Pet-friendly considerations: While many campgrounds welcome pets, facilities vary. A Silver Springs camper noted, "Very nice, quiet city campground. Many unlevel sites. Only 3-30 amp hooks ups, the rest are 20 amp. No reservations. Fantastic dog park with a swimming beach for dogs only. Fun to watch them play even if you don't have a dog."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment. A reviewer at Countryside Campground advised, "We camped at site #10. Was level side to side, lots are pretty tight in that area. Advice - get there early or you'll have many vehicles and campers to watch for as you back in!"
Electric service variations: Check amperage before booking if you need specific hookups. A Silver Springs visitor pointed out, "Gave it an extra star for proximity to Cuyahoga Valley NP, bargain price for a site with electric hookups, quiet setting and helpful hosts. No road noise, other campers very considerate. Sites are grass or overgrown gravel. Semi-level."
Seasonal considerations: Most pet friendly camping near Akron, Ohio operates seasonally. A KOA visitor mentioned, "Only an overnight stop during a bigger trip but it seemed nice. They were accommodating to our late arrival and left a map and gate key at the office for the late arrivers. The site was level and easy to hook up to."
