Mill Creek Camping, West Branch State Park, and Punderson State Park offer distinct cabin and glamping options near Bath, Ohio. These sites provide year-round accommodation alternatives with full amenities within a 30-40 minute drive. The area features elevation changes between 850-1,100 feet, creating varied terrain for camping with seasonal temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees between day and night in spring and fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide easy access for anglers at Mill Creek Camping, where waterfront sites allow you to keep your boat docked throughout your stay. A reviewer noted, "We were fortunate that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked there during our stay."
Hiking trails: Explore the numerous trails around Punderson State Park where you can discover historical elements of the park. "Beautiful scenery, very large park, fishing, boat rentals, man-made beach, loooong floating boardwalk, lots of trails, unique sites and tons of history," shared one visitor.
Water activities: Paddle boarding, swimming, and beach access are available at several locations, with most sites offering different water experiences. "The lake was smooth and clear," reports a camper who took inflatable kayaks out twice at West Branch State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Many sites feature encounters with local fauna, including raccoons, birds, and deer. One camper at Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA mentioned, "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."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion at West Branch State Park, where sites are described as "great site, shaded, lots of space, semi-private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access."
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower houses receive consistent praise at most campgrounds. One Countryside Campground visitor commented, "This is easily one of the most beautiful and well-kept campgrounds we've stayed at... The bathrooms were clean, the showers were nice and the pool was well kept."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds often host themed weekends and special events. "An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," shared a West Branch State Park visitor, highlighting family-friendly programming.
Cost value: Several campgrounds offer affordable options, especially for basic sites. One camper at Mill Creek noted, "Low cost for staying ($18 for a waterside, spacious site for up to 8 people, 2 tents at no additional costs)."
What you should know
Site conditions: Many campgrounds have unlevel or sloped sites that require preparation. At Countryside Campground, "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!"
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites book months in advance, especially waterfront locations. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advised a West Branch State Park camper.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. A recent visitor to Woodside Lake Park warned, "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."
Seasonal closures: Many Bath area campgrounds operate only from May through October, with limited year-round options. Plan accordingly as facilities like pools may close earlier than expected, with one visitor noting, "wish it were open a little later."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and activities. A visitor to American Wilderness Campground shared, "We loved the beach and the fun we have had... we love this family local owned business because they love making people happy."
Quiet areas: Select sites away from high-traffic areas for better sleep quality. "The sites are pretty far apart and you feel secluded but, at the same time, the bathrooms are close by," noted a Punderson State Park camper.
Entertainment options: Many locations offer recreational facilities beyond camping. "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," reported a Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA visitor.
Safety considerations: Be aware of water depths and supervision requirements at beaches and swimming areas. One American Wilderness Campground camper mentioned the park has "absolutely stunning beach views at sunset" but recommended parental supervision for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check for power and water specifications before booking. At Woodside Lake Park, "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."
Site width considerations: Many older campgrounds have narrow sites that limit awning and slide-out usage. "We chose this campground based on its proximity to Brandywine Falls, Cuyahoga Falls, and Chagrin Falls. Very clean and well maintained," noted a visitor to Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA.
Leveling requirements: Bring adequate leveling equipment, especially for hillier campgrounds. A West Branch camper shared, "We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches."
Seasonal site advantages: Consider seasonal arrangements for best locations and rates. "I was in a different section and by the second day it was unacceptable disgusting turbid rusty water with sulfur odor," reported a non-seasonal visitor at Woodside Lake Park.
