Camping options around Amherst, Ohio range from basic tent sites to comfortable yurt accommodations at nearby state parks. The region experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers averaging 75-85°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Spring and fall camping seasons typically offer mild temperatures between 50-70°F with occasional rain showers, making weatherproofing essential for overnight stays.
What to do
Explore glacial formations: Kelleys Island State Park offers unique geological features including the world's largest accessible glacial grooves. One visitor noted, "The island is beautiful and we hope that you can enjoy it! Check local deals on Groupon or Lake Erie Shores and Islands websites to save a bit on your trip."
Birding and wildlife viewing: East Harbor State Park Campground provides excellent birding opportunities on multiple trails. A camper shared, "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."
Beach activities: Several parks offer Lake Erie beach access with varied swimming conditions. At Kelleys Island State Park Campground, "The Park has a rocky beach (shoes NECESSARY) which is actually a nice swimming area if you aren't looking for sand under your feet or blanket."
Off-season exploration: Consider yurt camping near Amherst during quieter times. According to one camper at South Bass Island State Park Campground, "We generally only camp here off-season now. There is a lot to see and explore like the caves, the monument in the world famous bars."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Waterfront yurt camping options around Amherst provide memorable experiences. At South Bass Island State Park, "About twenty of the tent spots overlook the cliffs with great views of the water. Sites 97 and 114 sit on the edge of the cliff."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. At American Wilderness Campground, reviewers consistently mentioned upkeep: "Nice clean campground with lots of activities and also amenities the bathrooms and shower house were clean as well felt so comfortable made lots of friends."
Family activities: Campgrounds organize seasonal events for all ages. One camper at American Wilderness shared, "We had a nice fire roasting s'mores the atmosphere is so clean and nice we had a easy check in and we got to enter a chili cook off the food and vibes was fun."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer stocked fishing ponds or lake access. A visitor to American Wilderness noted, "We love the fishing available here we also had the kids they enjoyed the arcade and gem mining we also liked the access to self serve laundry and camp store as well."
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Island campgrounds require advance planning. At Kelleys Island State Park Campground, "You have to take a ferry to the campground. Kelley's Island Ferry in Marblehead. It is a few miles to campground so if you are renting and don't bring a vehicle you will want to rent a golf cart."
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds transform on weekends. A camper at South Bass Island noted, "The ONLY quiet areas in the campgrounds on the weekends are the cliff tent areas since it is a party island and the young people camping in the interior areas seem to never go to bed."
Bathroom availability: Facilities vary significantly between parks. At Camp Sandusky, "Bathrooms were ok. Functioning but outdated," while others reported "Bathrooms are clean and standard. Row of toilet stalls and showers in a separate room."
Seasonal operation: Most yurt camping options near Amherst have limited seasons. At Crystal Rock Campground, sites operate from "April 1 to November 1," making advance reservations essential during peak summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: Safety considerations matter with children. At Kelleys Island, "Sites along the cliff overlooking the lake have fabulous views but are ONLY for tents and one should NOT camp there with small kids."
Consider playground quality: Facilities vary widely between parks. At Milan Travel Park, "Nice play area near the pool and even a small basketball play area 1/4 court. Just 15-20 minutes from Cedar Point which is an easy ride."
Bring bicycles: Island camping pairs well with cycling. A Kelleys Island visitor advised, "I recommend bringing or renting bikes to tour the island! The state park has camping that can accommodate launching your boat if needed."
Look for organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programming. A family at Cleveland/Sandusky Jellystone Park shared, "My kids were spoiled here. The staff went out of their way to make sure we had a great time."
Tips from RVers
Reserve early for lake views: Premium sites book quickly at waterfront campgrounds. At Lighthouse Point, "Premium sites have their own table, chairs and fire pits as well. Well stocked camp store open 24 hours and very clean bath houses. Be sure to book as far in advance as possible as they fill up quick."
Level site selection: Some campgrounds offer more level parking. At South Bass Island, "The flattest RV sites with fair to good locations are Sites 57 and 44 (although even these will require a little leveling)."
Utility connections: Full hookups vary by location and site. A visitor to East Harbor State Park noted, "The key is site selection at East Harbor...we happened to be in section C which was a newer section of the park. The benefit of C is that there is a very nice newer shower house by the pull through lots."
Departure planning: Ferry schedules dictate island camping logistics. At Kelleys Island, "If you do take your vehicle over note that the wait time to bring it back on a Sunday while usually 2 to 3 hours can also be up to 6 hours from when you get in line."
