West Branch State Park offers cabin and yurt camping near Boardman, Ohio, with over 2,600 acres of outdoor recreation space and a 2,650-acre reservoir. Located within a 30-minute drive of Boardman, this park maintains operation year-round with varying seasonal amenities. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing, while summer highs average in the upper 70s to mid-80s.
What to do
Fishing at Mosquito Lake: Mosquito Lake State Park Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities on its large reservoir. "Great park! Sites are spacious and level. Very clean park. There are several full hook-up sites. Electric sites near the lake," notes Heidi B.
Hiking trails: West Branch State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. One camper shared, "It had some really nice hiking trails. We also played some disc golf and went geocaching."
Winter activities: Salem-Lisbon Ohio KOA remains open year-round, making it ideal for cold-weather yurt camping near Boardman. "This was an awesome place for a winter trip! The tent sites were big and right on the lake. Everyone was so kind!" reports Sienna L.
Water recreation: Mill Creek Camping at Berlin Lake Wildlife Area provides multiple water access points. According to Renee G., "We were fortunate that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked there during our stay."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Mill Creek Camping maintains well-kept restrooms and grounds. One reviewer noted, "The park itself and the bathrooms were very clean. We book a lakefront site and it is just gorgeous!"
Spacious campsites: Campers frequently mention the generous site sizes at West Branch. "The sites are good sized but some are on slopes even the pads so make sure to bring stuff to level," advises Joe I., providing practical guidance for first-time visitors.
Family activities: Lake Milton Berlin Lake KOA offers numerous recreational options beyond just accommodations. A camper mentioned, "The sites were kind of close, but they had a lot of things to do and activities all weekend," highlighting the trade-off between site spacing and amenities.
Dog-friendly areas: Mosquito Lake State Park features a dedicated dog park adjacent to the lake. Jim L. confirms this amenity: "This park is one of my favorites in Ohio at this time. Most of the sites are somewhat private. There are many trails and even a dog park next to the lake."
What you should know
Site conditions vary: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. At West Branch, Andrea F. 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."
Seasonal considerations: Tomlinson Run State Park operates from April through October. A visitor explained, "Have to go up to entrance as the water spouts are still shut off," showing that off-season camping requires additional planning.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G., providing crucial planning information for lakefront camping.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience varying noise levels, especially during peak season. According to Cheryl K., "There were fireworks (prohibited) and the campsite next to us played loud music but it was before quiet hours so we didn't mind."
Tips for camping with families
Water attractions: Families particularly enjoy the water features at Lake Milton Berlin Lake KOA. "My 2 boys had so much fun at the lake and the playground and the bounce pad etc!" shares Casey L., highlighting activities beyond standard camping.
Playground facilities: Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping offers multiple kid-friendly amenities. "Great Place for adults and children to enjoy themselves! Plenty of activities. Welcoming Staff!" notes Terra B.
Educational opportunities: Tomlinson Run features nature programming that can engage children. "Lots of trails to choose from. Some were pretty easy some were a little hilly. My favorite was the fern trail - lots of ferns and a very pretty stream," says Shannon G., describing features that appeal to curious kids.
Off-season considerations: Salem-Lisbon KOA provides heated facilities year-round, making shoulder season yurt camping possible. "We've stayed twice in the off season. There is so much for families to do. We were upgraded to a pull through," mentions one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have tricky entrance roads. About Mercer-Grove City KOA, Jen O. advises, "We have a 40' class A and flat tow a Jeep. We use both the RV Garmin 890 & RV Trip Wizard and both had us doing some crazy side roads to get into the KOA. Be sure to use the park's directions for an easier drive in."
Hookup considerations: When selecting a site, check utilities carefully. At Mill Creek, Sarah K. notes, "The only reason why I didn't give it 5 stars is because both times we have been here, the lady at the check-in drive-up window seemed very confused... The check-in process took longer than needed."
Site leveling: Bring appropriate leveling equipment for West Branch. "Verizon works well here... Bathrooms were clean separate showers," mentions Joe I., who also noted the sloped sites requiring leveling materials.
