Camping near Avon, Ohio offers diverse experiences from lakeside sites on Lake Erie to wooded inland campgrounds within a 50-mile radius. The region features both public state parks and private campgrounds with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September. Fall camping brings colorful foliage with cooler 50-65°F temperatures ideal for yurt camping near Avon, Ohio.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature well-stocked fishing ponds where campers can catch and release. At American Wilderness Campground, "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," shares Jessica J.
Water activities: Lake Erie access provides swimming, kayaking and boating options during warm months. At East Harbor State Park Campground, one camper notes, "The camp store has all the necessities you may have forgotten. I enjoy walking to the pond at night and flashlight frogs... It is a great place for birding, fishing, boating and close to marblehead lighthouse and the ferries."
Island exploration: Ferry access to island camping offers a unique experience with golf cart transportation. A visitor to South Bass Island explains, "The island is pretty well known as a party island so 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
Secluded tent sites: Some campgrounds offer more private tent camping options tucked away from RV areas. At Punderson State Park, Daniel U. observed, "A good amount of secluded and shaded sites. Really cool 'hill' sites that you have to hike up or down 20-100 feet to your wooded site."
Yurt accommodations: Several locations near Avon offer yurt camping experiences with various comfort levels. A visitor to Kelleys Island State Park Campground noted, "Yurts are available for rent. Accommodates RV, tent and group camping, although tent spots can be cramped. But nothing beats a lake view spot! I recommend bringing or renting bikes to tour the island!"
Family-oriented activities: Campgrounds often schedule regular events for campers. At American Wilderness Campground, Cassie V. shares, "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."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Lake Erie can bring strong winds and storms, especially at waterfront campsites. A camper at South Bass Island noted, "It stormed while I was there and the winds got strong, so make sure your tent is sturdy, or choose an in-land campsite."
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. "You can reserve a spot ahead and I would absolutely do that during season," advises one Kelleys Island visitor.
Varying site layouts: Campground elevation and spacing between sites varies significantly throughout the area. At Punderson State Park Campground, one RVer observed, "The lots are not even close to level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level. Saw one RV with auto levelers with his tire about foot off the ground."
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds have active wildlife that may approach campsites. "Every night we were visited by raccoons, they stole our trash on the first night but the other nights we kept everything out of their reach," warns Traci F. at Crystal Rock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities for children. At Cleveland/Sandusky Jellystone Park, Kathryn P. shares, "Tons of planned activities for the kids. Movie nights, wibits (inflatable obstacle course on the pond), stocked pond, kayaks, Gaga Ball, RC track, jump pad, climbing wall etc etc etc!"
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The campground has a beach and playground. You can also purchase wood," notes one visitor to Kelleys Island State Park.
Family-sized sites: Some locations offer larger sites better suited for family camping. At Crystal Rock, Crystal J. reports, "Tom went out of his way to make extra fun activities for the little kiddos. Our daughter really loved the sandbox, and the playground was great! We even did a little gem mining!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between 15-50 amp depending on location. A visitor to Milan Travel Park notes, "Many level pull through sites. We were just passing through so the ability to not have to unhook was important to us."
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require significant leveling for RVs, especially at state parks. At Punderson State Park, one camper observed, "The camp grounds for RV's is not the best. Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service."
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds offer easier access than others for larger rigs. "This spot was convenient and a great location to do a little sightseeing. Sites were gravel and level. We enjoyed full hookups," reports Sharon J. about her stay at Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA.
