West Branch State Park provides equestrian camping opportunities 10 miles east of Ravenna in northeastern Ohio. The park sits at an elevation of 985 feet along Kirwan Reservoir, created by the Michael J. Kirwan Dam on the Mahoning River. Weather conditions vary dramatically with humid summers reaching 80°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking and water access: Lakefront sites at West Branch State Park Campground offer direct water entry points. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," notes Katelyn P. Some campers launch directly from their sites: "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite," shares Alisa G.
Dog park visits: Take your pets to the nearby dog areas. "The dog park is amazing. Theres so much to do here. Swimming, boating, fishing. We love it," reports Courtney C. about Mosquito Lake State Park Campground. Another camper confirms, "There is a dog park next to the lake."
Historic exploration: Visit the pioneer village at Beaver Creek State Park Campground, located 53 miles southeast of Ravenna. "The pioneer village near the park office offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)," explains Shay D. The park provides "direct access to the North Country National Scenic Trail and trails through main park."
What campers like
Private showers: Washroom facilities receive consistent praise. "Clean individual showers," notes Dan M. about West Branch State Park. Another camper adds, "The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days."
Large, level sites: Campers appreciate the spacious camping areas. At Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday, visitors note it's "clean and quiet" with family-friendly amenities. Mosquito Lake gets high marks for site quality: "Sites are spacious and level. Very clean park. There are several full hook-up sites. Electric sites near the lake."
Nature play areas: Several parks offer specialized recreation zones for children. "If your kids are 8 and under they'll love the nature playground and nets provided to catch critters," says Joe F. about Mosquito Lake. West Branch offers "an ice cream social held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend."
What you should know
Site topography challenges: Many campsites in the region have uneven terrain. "We chose site 50. It is an unbelievably spacious site under towering pine trees," reports Matt H. about Beaver Creek State Park. At West Branch, one camper warns: "Our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches."
Water restrictions: Some parks limit water access. Beaver Creek operates on a well system with restrictions: "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!"
Reservation timing: Popular horse campgrounds near Ravenna, Ohio fill quickly. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises one camper. For equestrian camping in the Ravenna area, plan ahead particularly for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with young children. "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed," shares Matt H. about Beaver Creek State Park. Another camper notes: "There are playgrounds for the children."
Fishing opportunities: Many parks offer shoreline fishing access. "Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!!" says Mike T. At Canton-East Sparta KOA, families can enjoy various recreational amenities though some note "mostly gravel site..heavy construction where patio sites are."
Beach options: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas. Mosquito Lake campers report: "Beach was great and there's an epic playground for kids." At West Branch, "There is a small beach at the campground but a larger one on the other side of the lake."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Sites with utilities are limited at some parks. "No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. We're in a self contained RV so it's not a problem for us," reports Rino S. about West Branch State Park. For RVers seeking equestrian-friendly campgrounds near Ravenna, Ohio, verify hookup availability when booking.
Leveling requirements: Bring adequate leveling equipment. "The sites have a slight grade so be cautious when selecting," notes one camper. Another adds: "The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches."
Road restrictions: Some parks have access limitations. "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RVs/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!" warns a visitor to Beaver Creek State Park.
