Located in northeastern Ohio, Boardman sits just 6 miles south of Youngstown at approximately 1,050 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Camping opportunities near Boardman range from quiet lakefront sites to family-oriented campgrounds with abundant recreation options.
What to Do
Fishing access: At Mill Creek Camping on Berlin Lake, campers can enjoy both open water fishing and shoreline casting. "A very nice and clean campground with many access points to the lake. We were fortunate that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked there during our stay," notes Renee G.
Water recreation: Kayaking and swimming are popular at Guilford Lake State Park where the calm waters are ideal for beginners. "Flat and quiet lake for paddlers. All sites are electric. Peddle boat and kayak rentals on site," explains George in his review.
Historic exploration: Near Beaver Creek State Park, visitors can tour a pioneer village with buildings from early settlement days. "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)," shares Shay D.
What Campers Like
Lake access: Multiple campsites at Shenango Campground offer direct water views and convenient boat access. "The campground is located on a peninsula on Shenango River Lake. A large number of them are on the lake providing a nice area to beach your boat or kayaks," writes Doug A. in his review.
Affordable rates: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Mill Creek Camping's value. "Low cost for staying ($18 for a waterside, spacious site for up to 8 people, 2 tents at no additional costs)," mentions Katie in her review, noting this is significantly less expensive than many surrounding options.
Clean facilities: Beaver Creek State Park maintains some of the cleanest vault toilets in the region. "Probably the nicest pit toilets I have experienced and while we didn't use it, the sun shower building would give anyone privacy if they had packed a portable shower," Aaron B. reports.
What You Should Know
Site spacing varies: At Salem-Lisbon Ohio KOA, some campers note tight quarters. "Site was level and quiet facing the woods. Grass was a little high, but not crazy. We had some cool neighbors. Most of the Campground seemed to be people working in the area," shares Clean Slate D.
Morning noise considerations: Early risers may appreciate this, but light sleepers should note that maintenance crews start early at some parks. A reviewer at Shenango Campground observed, "The cleaning crew lead blowing the sidewalk around the restroom at 7:00 a.m. seriously!"
Water restrictions: Some parks have limited water access points. Beaver Creek State Park operates with restrictions as noted by a camper: "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!"
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground accessibility: KOA Lake Milton Berlin Lake offers multiple child-friendly amenities. "We had a great time. My 2 boys had so much fun at the lake and the playground and the bounce pad etc.," reports Casey L., highlighting the activity options for children.
Quiet campgrounds for younger children: Beaver Creek State Park provides a peaceful environment for families with small children. "The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy. The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities," shares Matt H.
Pet-friendly options: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Boardman make it easy to travel with pets. "We have a Rottie mix and they allow her in. We have our own private little beach which our dog loves," writes Sarah K. about Mill Creek Camping.
Tips from RVers
Early arrival recommended: At Pioneer Trails Tree Farm Campground, arriving before dark helps with navigation. "My family and I had a great time. It was very easy and relaxing. The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids," notes Andrew O., though accessibility may be limited at night.
Hookup logistics: RVers should note the electrical options at Guilford Lake State Park. "All sites are electric. Potable water on site. Dump station on site," mentions George, though he cautions that the sites offer "zero privacy" which might impact extended stays.
Site leveling considerations: Many Boardman area campgrounds feature gravel sites requiring minimal leveling. At Shenango Campground, "Most sites are level gravel," reports Doug A., making setup easier for those with larger rigs.
