Best Campgrounds near Amherst, OH

Campgrounds near Amherst, Ohio range from established facilities with full amenities to more basic overnight parking areas. Timber Ridge Campgrounds in Amherst provides year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. The area also includes several service plaza campgrounds along the Ohio Turnpike, such as Vermilion Valley and Middle Ridge, which cater primarily to RV travelers. Within a short drive, campers can access Findley State Park Campground in Wellington and American Wilderness Campground in Grafton, both offering a mix of accommodation types including tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals. Most established campgrounds in the region provide standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms.

Northern Ohio's camping season generally runs from April through October, though several campgrounds remain open year-round. Summer months bring higher occupancy rates, particularly at waterfront locations and sites with swimming access. Winter camping is available at select locations but with limited amenities. Most established campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer weekends and holidays. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall particularly pleasant for outdoor recreation. Road access to most campgrounds is straightforward, with paved roads leading to most established sites. A visitor noted, "Findley State Park has numerous sites around this large state park for picnicking and events, bonfire pits and fishing inlets."

Campers consistently rate waterfront locations among their favorites in the region. East Harbor State Park Campground on Lake Erie receives high marks for its clean facilities and lake views. Several visitors mentioned the appeal of Kelleys Island State Park Campground for its shoreline camping and scenic water vistas. According to one camper, "These lakeside campsites are stunning and even the ones tucked further into the park have a lot of options too." For those seeking a more urban camping experience, several campgrounds provide convenient access to attractions like Cedar Point Amusement Park and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The region's mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and service plaza overnight parking creates diverse options for different camping styles and preferences, from family-oriented sites with playgrounds and swimming areas to more basic accommodations for travelers passing through.

Best Camping Sites Near Amherst, Ohio (95)

    1. Findley State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Wellington, OH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 647-0534

    $25 - $50 / night

    "Beware, the sites are close to these roads and quite shallow, but because each road dead ends in a cul de sac, traffic is very light, even when the campground is full, as when we visited."

    "Lots of walking trails, lots of nature. Once off my favorite local ohio parks."

    2. American Wilderness Campground

    16 Reviews
    Grafton, OH
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 926-3700

    $35 - $69 / night

    "We had nice woods behind us, neighbors to the right and vacancy on the left (jackpot)."

    "Drive in sites are set back & not near the lake. They have back in & drive through sites. There is a small store. It is close to Cleveland & has Good Sam discount."

    3. Timber Ridge Campgrounds

    3 Reviews
    Vermilion, OH
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 965-4113

    "You’re close to your neighbor but doesn’t feel like it. Quiet but also great for families. Looks like a lot of seasonal visitors."

    4. Vermilion Valley Ohio Turnpike RV Lot

    2 Reviews
    Amherst, OH
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 234-2081

    "Dump station as you exit. Gas and convenience items are extra helpful. Safe environment to snooze overnight."

    "Pulled in to the RV parking area around 9:45 pm, there was one other vehicle there. 3 more came and parked before midnight. Felt completely safe and not crowded by the campers on either side."

    5. Service Plaza - Middle Ridge Overnight Parking

    2 Reviews
    Amherst, OH
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 234-2081

    "You can walk into the service plaza which has vending, showers, laundry.  The sites are very wide, with 30/50 amp service. It's behind where all the cars and trucks go. 20/night paid with a kiosk. "

    "The cons…lots of highway noise and trucks coming through but I like it if I am in a public place. The place was $20 for overnight. It was a full house. I felt safe!"

    6. Middle Ridge/Vermilion Valley Rest Area

    2 Reviews
    Amherst, OH
    2 miles
    Website

    "This is a test area on the Ohio Turnpike. Rv owners can self pay $20 to stay overnight. Quiet area away from the semis and common parking lot, but super close still to the plaza."

    "The location was in an suburban area."

    7. Riverview RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Vermilion, OH
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 606-0848

    "If you need a pump out it 20$ for emergency situations."

    "Great park in a great location with great people."

    8. East Harbor State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Kelleys Island, OH
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 734-4424

    "A great campground in Ohio. So clean and so many things to do. Campsites are close together but they do honor quiet hours. Great trail around the lake and a fun and challenging disc golf course."

    "this is probably my favorite park in Ohio . it’s always clean people are so friendly and the lake is just beautiful !"

    9. Kelleys Island State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Kelleys Island, OH
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 746-2546

    "Nice site on an island in Northern Ohio."

    "The campsites are located close to one another, and there is little tree cover between the sites which could potentially make for a less enjoyable experience at busier times of the year."

    10. Sandusky-Bayshore KOA

    17 Reviews
    Sandusky, OH
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 625-1495

    "Nice site in Northern Ohio!"

    "This isn't a place to get away from it all. It's behind a car dealership and next to a fairly busy railroad. But they do offer amenities to make your stay easier.
     "

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Recent Reviews near Amherst, OH

480 Reviews of 95 Amherst Campgrounds


  • Daniel G.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Inland Acres

    Great place to camp!

    I had a great time at this location. It was clean, had everything that was needed and was a perfect location near the lake. I'll be sure to stay here again in the future!

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    East Harbor State Park Campground

    Beautiful but Buzzy

    I booked one night here for the amenities on a cross-country trip.

    The laundry, showers, and water fill stations were convenient/ well-maintained.

    I gave only 4-star however 2 reasons.

    1. for the 5hr lawn mowing caravan that started at 7am in every direction. I’m not even sure what they were mowing since the lawns looked freshly cut. It was obnoxious! And
    2. not enough signage. For example, I had to ask for directions to the laundry rooms and then they are quarter only with no change machine. I had to make a trip back to the office for change.

    Overall, a nice spot with all the amenities you could need. Plenty of room and nice multi-use trail to the beach was great!

  • Adam A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Terrace Lakes Campground

    Family Fun and Friendly

    They have a nice big fishing lake they have a nice swimming Lake and other ponds to fish in a very relaxing and fun place to go

  • K
    Aug. 27, 2025

    American Wilderness Campground

    American Wilderness

    We had a good experience the place was clean and nice the amenities were great the staff was helpful and the laundry room was clean as well as bathrooms and showers.

  • Travis O.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    American Wilderness Campground

    Property is so relaxing and nice

    We had a nice time the place was clean and the people were nice as in other campers we had a good time we went to the pavilion to a get together.

  • Joe B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    East Harbor State Park Campground

    Nice park

    Stayed 2 nights. The bathrooms are decent, laundry facility is good and the sites are a good size. There are trails and beaches in the park. I found a disc golf course in the park, and I really enjoyed the layout’s layout. The main issue is the mosquitoes, on every tee pad I was swarmed by at least 50 mosquitoes. It was by far the most mosquitoes I’ve ever seen in one area. I was warned, so I sprayed before going. It helped, but they still buzzed around your head.

  • Steven V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Rvino - Camp Hiyo

    Nice spot

    Nice park, two fenced dog parks. Bathrooms were clean.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA

    Quiet, peaceful, close to all the things

    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. Swimming (wish it were open a little later…) laundry 24/7, a game room, store with just what we needed to pick up a few things, a pond that seemed to always have someone fishing at it (that’s a good thing) and a big wide sites to spread out and have a nice campfire in. (Wood available 24/7 and trash pick up at the site in the AM). It’s always nerve wracking when the fire pits are close to the rigs - loved that these sits were wide. And while there are likely people here it feels nice and spread out.

  • Jerry L.
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Woodside Lake Park

    Old Park With Iron Laden Well Water Beware

       I stayed at this park for 2 months in 2023 and was planing on staying for 5 months in 2025. 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. It damages everything and they won't put a treatment system in at the well pump like the 2nd well has so you can filter it to an acceptable level for drinking, cooking, washing etc.

       In 2023 I was in a section that was treated and my filters/softener did a acceptable job to make it work. I Used the laundry facilities also. This trip to see family in 2025 I was in a different section and by the second day it was unacceptable disgusting turbid rusty water with sulfur odor. I bought additional filters for Ferrous Iron Water treatment and remediation along with iron out chemical for cleaning fixtures and plumbing system on the camper. It barely worked well enough for a couple weeks between filter changes and rinsing the system for shower use. I Had to buy drinking water in town every few days for cooking, drinking and brushing teeth etc.

       New owners bought the park in 2023 and have increased monthly rent from$750 a month to$950 a month but don't seem to care enough about the health and comfort of their guest to do anything with the well water for a majority of the park. Let alone any of the other infrastructure or"amenities" to be generous in there reference This year even the laundry machines where too disgusting to use that we had to go into town for laundry also.

       The park needs major renovations to just bring it up to modern standards. The bath house is in decrepit condition moldy smelly and barely cleaned anytime I was over there. Site pads are rip rap 1" to 4" size rock with no fine rock coverings, or in some areas smoother rock and dirt but nowhere close to flat or level. Water drainage when its raining is deplorable and you very well might be in a mud pit at your doorway.

       It's sad there are no decent RV parks in the Cleveland area, just old campgrounds that have added hook-ups and market themselves as RV parks and now charge like they are RV Resorts. Reserve a space at your own risk and definitely verify where and what water source you are on. Bring plenty of filters and plan on sanitizing your system after staying there.


Guide to Amherst

Camping near Amherst, Ohio offers options within the flat terrain of Ohio's north-central region, where the weather ranges from humid 80°F summer days to winter temperatures that frequently drop below freezing. The camping season typically extends from April through October with several year-round facilities available, though winter camping requires preparation for potential snow accumulation of 40-60 inches annually across the region.

What to do

Kayaking at Findley State Park: The 93-acre lake provides calm waters for paddling with rental options available on-site. According to a camper, "Took the kayaks out on the lake and had a great time" at Findley State Park Campground.

Hiking trails: Findley State Park offers multiple trail systems for different experience levels. One visitor noted, "Findley state park is well maintained large park! We can easily get lost on 3 mile hikes in the woods and still be on marked paths!"

Gem mining for kids: American Wilderness Campground provides family-friendly activities beyond standard camping. A reviewer mentioned, "We love the fishing available here we also had the kids they enjoyed the arcade and gem mining" at American Wilderness Campground.

Wildlife observation: The parks around Amherst feature diverse animal populations, especially during dawn and dusk hours. A camper at East Harbor State Park described, "The wild life in the area was abundant making hikes in the afternoon great especially near sunset when the deer in the area started to come out."

What campers like

Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities as important to their experience. At Timber Ridge Campgrounds, a visitor observed, "This campground was clean and the staff was friendly. We only stayed one night but had a pretty sight by the pond."

Lake access: Proximity to water features ranks high on camper satisfaction. One camper at East Harbor State Park Campground shared, "I enjoy this campground because there are lots of great spots to choose from. I love the ability to walk or bike to the beach."

Spacious sites: Site size and layout significantly impact camper experience. A visitor to Findley State Park noted, "We have enjoyed the shade at our site this week and the space between us and our neighbors."

Evening entertainment: Impromptu social activities create memorable experiences. At Findley State Park, a camper mentioned, "Many musicians set up camp and would jam out for some live evening music! Everyone was so nice at the campground."

What you should know

Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for prime summer weekends. A Findley State Park visitor warned, "Only downfall is trying to find an open spot for reservations. Place is booked most of the time. If you're planning a holiday weekend you need to book 6 months in advance."

Site variations: Within the same campground, sites can differ significantly in size, shade, and amenities. At Kelleys Island State Park Campground, visitors noted, "A lot of shaded sites and waterfront sites that are right on the water. 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."

Seasonal maintenance: Spring and fall camping may involve dealing with fallen leaves or muddy conditions. At Findley State Park, one camper observed, "Dirt in the campsites is packed super tight, it's hard to drive tent stakes. However, it's flat enough where it isn't really an issue."

Cell service limitations: Network coverage varies significantly across the region. At Kelleys Island, a camper reported, "My phone thought we were in Canada which was only a problem because we couldn't connect with our friends in town to make plans."

Tips for camping with families

Look for kid-focused amenities: Campgrounds with dedicated children's activities reduce planning pressure. A visitor to Sandusky-Bayshore KOA shared, "Very kid friendly. Clean bathrooms. Full hookups available. My kids had a blast!"

Choose sites near playgrounds: Walking distance to play areas makes supervision easier. One camper noted, "Nice playground with jumping pillow...all the workers that drive around are super friendly."

Pack extra clothing: Lake Erie's weather can change rapidly, particularly in spring and fall. At American Wilderness, a visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed the arcade and camp store as well," which provides backup activities during weather changes.

Consider cabin options: For families new to camping or during uncertain weather, cabins offer comfort with outdoor access. A Sandusky KOA visitor shared, "The cabins are spacious with tons of outdoor space on each cabin lot. Fishing, boats, hot tubs, and lots of other activities on the grounds."

Tips from RVers

Service plaza overnight options: Ohio Turnpike service plazas provide convenient RV stops with basic amenities. A camper at Vermilion Valley Ohio Turnpike RV Lot reported, "Clean with electric hookup for $20. Dump station as you exit. Gas and convenience items are extra helpful. Safe environment to snooze overnight."

Site selection research: Investigate specific site dimensions before booking. A visitor to Timber Ridge noted, "We stayed in a 29ft Travel Trailer, but sites could handle the largest of rigs."

Payment requirements: Some campgrounds have specific payment policies. One visitor to Timber Ridge advised, "Hit up the ATM prior to arriving, as this park is cash/check only."

Off-season availability: Several campgrounds around Amherst remain open year-round with reduced amenities. A Vermilion Valley visitor mentioned, "The actual service station across the way was incredibly clean and comfortable. 3 or 4 restaurants, Starbucks, maps and guidebooks available. Best $20 nights sleep I ever got."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Amherst, Ohio?

The Amherst area offers several excellent camping options. Findley State Park Campground is a local favorite, located less than an hour from Cleveland and minutes from historic Wellington and Oberlin. This wooded retreat offers a peaceful setting with hiking trails and decades of positive experiences from returning campers. For RV travelers, Middle Ridge/Vermilion Valley Rest Area provides convenient overnight parking on the Ohio Turnpike with self-pay options ($20), separate from truck areas, and proximity to amenities including restaurants and clean restrooms.

What amenities are available at Amherst camping facilities?

Campgrounds near Amherst offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay. American Wilderness Campground provides sites with electric and water hookups, a playground for children, a lake for recreation, an on-site store, and restrooms with showers. At East Harbor State Park Campground, you'll find clean facilities, enforced quiet hours, scenic trails around the lake, and a challenging disc golf course. Many area campgrounds also feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water activities like fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

When is the best season for camping in the Amherst area?

The best camping season in the Amherst area is late spring through early fall (May to October), when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are most accessible. Heritage Farms, located about half a mile off the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, offers both standard campsites and shelters among a working Christmas tree farm, making it particularly charming in spring and fall. For those who enjoy cooler temperatures and natural experiences, Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite can be enjoyable even in cooler weather, with provided firewood and scenic gorge walks nearby, though wildlife activity increases in fall.