Dispersed camping is limited in the Aurora, Ohio area, where most RV camping occurs at established campgrounds within 25 miles of the city. The region has elevations ranging from 1,000-1,300 feet and experiences average summer temperatures between 70-85°F, with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds close from November through April, though several remain open year-round.
What to do
Fishing in stocked lakes: Kool Lakes Family RV Park features multiple fishing spots popular with families. "Our kids age 4 and 8 fished from sun up Saturday to about noon and then sporadically after that throughout the day. That night we hunted large bull frogs. All catch and release," noted one visitor about the experience at Kool Lakes.
Water sports on campground lakes: Woodside Lake Park maintains a swimming pond with rentals and activities. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities," according to a camper who visits regularly.
Hiking to nearby reservoirs: Trails connect many campgrounds to local water features. At Countryside Campground, "The Buckeye trail connects to the footpath down to the reservoir. I wish I would have brought my yak so we could have explored the reservoir a bit more," shared a camper who visited with family.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom quality as important. At Countryside Campground, "The bathrooms were clean, the showers were nice and the pool was well kept. Each site comes with a fire ring and picnic table both in good condition."
Spacious tent camping areas: While most campgrounds prioritize RVs, tent campers appreciate designated spaces. "The 9 tent sites are very large and spacious. It is mostly an established RV Park," noted a visitor who camped with family at Countryside Campground.
Winter camping options: Evergreen Park RV Resort provides year-round access including indoor amenities. "We camped here the second weekend in December and had the park mostly to ourselves. The game room was nice as well as the indoor pool," reported a winter visitor.
What you should know
Water quality varies significantly: Iron content in well water affects some campgrounds. At Woodside Lake Park, one long-term camper noted issues: "Iron and sulfur laden well water is provided in at least half the park. I spent hundreds of dollars trying to filter and clean up the water to no avail."
Seasonal openings: Most rv sites near Aurora, Ohio operate from May through October with limited exceptions. Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake runs from "April 27 to October 23" according to their schedule.
Internet connectivity challenges: Cellular service requires planning ahead. "The only downside is the internet which is lacking in this area," reported a visitor to Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake, suggesting external antennas may help: "Kenisee Lake RV Campground is a wonderful place to work from remotely if you have an external antenna to cellular internet."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities: Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake organizes regular events for children. "Nice large place with activities all day for all ages. Pool was great due to temps being in the 90s," noted a July visitor.
Consider lake access for cooling off: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas that provide relief during summer. "Large campground with a sizable lake which boasts inflatables as well as enough room for self-propelled water crafts (i.e. kayaks, paddleboards, etc)," reported a visitor about recreation options.
Scout for playgrounds and recreation areas: Family-friendly RV sites near Aurora offer various amenities for children. "Awesome campground with many amenities! Rec hall, playground, dog park," mentioned a visitor to Countryside Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site spacing before booking: RV sites vary considerably in size and privacy. At Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground, "Sites are large and the area is peaceful. The area is well kept and owners are very nice," according to a regular visitor.
Verify hookup types and amperage: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Sites are gravel and relatively level gravel sites. Good FHUs. Laundry facilities were clean with good machines," noted an RV camper at Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake.
Ask about seasonal considerations: Weather impacts site conditions throughout the year. "Water drainage when it's raining is deplorable and you very well might be in a mud pit at your doorway," cautioned one RVer about wet-weather camping at Woodside Lake Park.
