Mosquito Lake State Park Campground and West Branch State Park offer traditional camping options that contrast with the luxury glamping near Berlin Center, Ohio. Both parks feature spacious campsites with water views and wooded surroundings. Sites range from basic tent pads to electric hookups with amenities like clean showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. Winter camping is available at several locations with heated facilities. Seasonal variations affect site availability, with summer weekends typically requiring reservations 2-3 months in advance.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Mill Creek Camping provides numerous lake access points for shore fishing. "Our camp site was in close proximity to the restroom facilities. We were fourtante that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked their during our stay," notes Renee G.
Archery practice for all ages: Mosquito Lake State Park Campground maintains a dedicated archery range near the camping area. "We like to bring our bows and use the archery range. Shower house available, but bathrooms throughout the site are primitive," shares Karen D.
Disc golf course: Visitors can enjoy an on-site disc golf course at Punderson State Park. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," mentions Rebecca G.
Inflatable water activities: The swim areas at several parks include floating play structures for children. "The kids absolutely loved swimming in the little lake and sliding/jumping off the inflatables," reports Kelly R. about her experience at KOA Lake Milton Berlin Lake.
What campers like
Private beach areas: Salem-Lisbon Ohio KOA offers tent sites directly on the water. "The tent sites were big and right on the lake. Everyone was so kind!" shares Sienna L.
Wooded separation between sites: West Branch State Park Campground provides natural buffers between campsites. "West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite," notes Alisa G., who appreciates the privacy.
Dog-friendly amenities: Multiple parks cater to four-legged campers. "This park is one of my favorites in Ohio at this time. Most of the sites are some what private. There are many trails and even a fog park next to the lake," reports Jim L. about Mosquito Lake State Park.
Variety of camping terrain: Punderson State Park features unique hillside tent sites. "Really cool 'hill' sites that you have to hike up or down 20-100 feet to your wooded site," describes Daniel U., highlighting the distinctive camping experience.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and limitations: Many campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. "Only open in the summer," notes J M. about Mill Creek Camping at Berlin Lake Wildlife Area.
Variable site conditions: Punderson State Park Campground has inconsistent terrain. "The sites greatly very on size and flatness so make sure you look at the pictures of the site before you book some are basically the parking pad and a fire ring, some are big and flat some are on a incline," advises Joe I.
Limited bathroom facilities: Some parks have minimal restroom access. "No real bathrooms except at the front of the park. No place to wash dishes. Rough if you're tent camping," cautions Courtney C. about Mosquito Lake State Park.
Water quality varies: Lake conditions fluctuate seasonally. "The algae was kind of thick, which made fishing impossible, so we stopped bringing the kayak," shares Rose S. about her Mosquito Lake experience.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Lake Milton Berlin Lake KOA organizes regular programming for younger campers. "The sites were kind of close, but they had a lot of things to do and activities all weekend," mentions Lori H.
Playgrounds and recreation: Some parks offer specialized play areas. "There is a nice little putt putt course was still open for kids to play. Playground was a hit for our 8yr and under kids," reports Joe F. about Countryside Campground.
Ice cream socials: West Branch State Park hosts weekend treats. "An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," shares Alisa G.
Nature exploration areas: Facilities for young naturalists exist at several parks. "Even the rumbling of the nearby trains was on the quiet side! Nice playground with toy stocked sandpit, volleyball net, cheap laundry, dishwashing sinks, showers, and clean bathrooms," notes Lee D. at West Branch.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Countryside Campground provides firm, maintained sites. "Large campground with gravel sites," reports Erin, noting the stable parking areas.
Power limitations: Many parks offer only basic electrical service. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service. The lots are not even close the level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level," cautions Coy about Punderson State Park.
Dump station access: Several parks have centralized facilities rather than at-site connections. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean," notes Alisa G. about West Branch State Park's amenities.
Early arrival recommended: Some parks have challenging site access. "Advice - get there early or you'll have many vehicles and campers to watch for as you back in!" suggests Joe F. about navigating Countryside Campground.
