Tent and RV camping options near Brook Park offer rustic to resort-style experiences within a 30-minute drive. The area features a mix of state park and private campgrounds with sites situated along reservoirs, lakes, and wooded areas. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter camping available at select locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Woodside Lake Park provides access to a well-stocked fishing pond where many campers enjoy casting a line. "We really enjoy the fishing available here we also had the kids they enjoyed the arcade and gem mining we also liked the access to self serve laundry and camp store as well," notes Jessica J.
Paddle sports: West Branch State Park Campground offers direct water access for kayaking and canoeing with some sites right on the water. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," shares Katelyn P. Many campers bring their own boats or inflatable kayaks to explore the reservoir.
Hiking trails: Punderson State Park Campground features multiple trails through wooded areas with varying difficulty levels. "Beautiful scenery, very large park, fishing, boat rentals, man made beach, loooong floating boardwalk, lots of trails, unique sites and tons of history," explains Daniel U. The park's trail system connects camping areas to natural attractions within the property.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of bathrooms and shower facilities across multiple campgrounds. At American Wilderness Campground, one visitor noted, "We had a good experience the place was clean and nice the amenities were great the staff was helpful and the laundry room was clean as well as bathrooms and showers."
Family activities: Regular scheduled events keep families entertained throughout their stays. "The atmosphere is so clean and nice we had a easy check in and we got to enter a chili cook off the food and vibes was fun we camp here seasonal and love it," shares Cassie V. about American Wilderness Campground's organized activities.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas and beaches. "The pool was so nice it wasn't too crowded and the view over looking the 'lake' was so pretty," writes Traci F. about Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA, adding "the game room was small but the kids loved it."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for premium sites, especially waterfront locations. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park Campground.
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain that can challenge RV leveling. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service. The lots are not even close to level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level," warns Coy about Punderson State Park Campground.
Water quality concerns: Be prepared for variable water quality at certain campgrounds. At Woodside Lake Park, one camper experienced challenges: "I left after 2 months due to 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."
Wildlife encounters: Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite offers a rustic experience with possible wildlife sightings. "The second night had lots of coyotes around, which is cool but can be dangerous if not careful of course. Coyotes were heard all around the general area," reports Ky G.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas specifically for campers. At Countryside Campground, a visitor shared, "Went to this nice little spot with 4 kids, the hound and my wife. The 9 tent sites are very large and spacious... Pool was closed since went before Memorial Day but it was a nice medium sized pool."
Playground facilities: Most family-oriented campgrounds include play areas for children. "Large campground with a nice mix of seasonal and overnighters. Clean common areas. Nice pool, camp store on site with a nice selection of camp gear," notes Kathryn P. about Cleveland/Sandusky Jellystone Park.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreational spaces. "We stopped here for a couple nights to go to a Cleveland Guardians game and go to Cuyahoga National Park. It was within great proximity to both and had all the amenities the kids and I love. Swimming... laundry 24/7, a game room, store," mentions Jennifer H. about Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on your leveling needs and hookup requirements. "The sites are not maintained well and have lots of weeds and some are very close and are essentially sharing the space with the fire ring and picnic table with other campers. Not very private at all," warns Greg A. about Punderson State Park Campground.
Utility considerations: Verify the electrical capacity at your selected site. "If you can afford it, get the pull through site," recommends Rae Ann P., while another camper notes, "If you have awnings or slides, you will have to be careful about what site you will get or you will not be able to open the slides or your awning."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access for larger rigs. "The water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full. This was okay for a short weekend but not good planning," shares Andrea F. about navigating West Branch State Park Campground.
