Best Tent Camping near Chagrin Falls, OH

Tent campgrounds near Chagrin Falls, Ohio offer a mix of primitive and established sites set within the region's wooded parks and reservations. The West Woods provides walk-in tent sites approximately a quarter mile from parking, while Heritage Farms offers tent camping on a working Christmas tree farm with scattered sites that provide varying levels of privacy and shade. Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite and Headwaters Park also accommodate tent campers seeking more natural surroundings within a short drive of Chagrin Falls.

Most tent sites in the area require campers to pack light or use provided wagons to transport gear from parking areas to campsites. Fire rings are common amenities, though firewood policies vary by location. At Heritage Farms, campers must purchase firewood on-site rather than bringing their own. Portable toilets or vault toilets are typically available near parking areas, not at individual sites. A visitor commented, "Sites are spread apart nicely. Each one has a picnic table and fire ring. Grassy spots that are fairly level and mowed." Water access is limited, with most primitive tent campgrounds requiring campers to bring their own drinking water.

The tent camping experience near Chagrin Falls offers natural settings with varying degrees of seclusion. Sites at The West Woods feature raised tent pads that help keep campers dry during rainfall, with proximity to hiking trails and abundant wildlife observation opportunities. At Lake Erie Bluffs, walk-in tent sites provide more remote camping experiences. Tent campers at Heritage Farms enjoy unique settings among Christmas trees with scenic sunset views, though highway noise may be audible at some locations. A recent review noted, "Our site was beautiful and private. We also had a lot of space. We couldn't really see or hear any other campers." Many tent campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, especially during peak summer months, with prices ranging from approximately $5-$35 per night depending on amenities and location.

Best Tent Sites Near Chagrin Falls, Ohio (15)

    1. The West Woods

    4 Reviews
    Novelty, OH
    5 miles
    Website

    "Tent pad is raised so even though it rained and the water streamed through the middle of camp, tent was fine."

    "While this is a spot in a smaller park with a lot of day use, the site is a walk off of the trail, and situated slightly lower than trail level for privacy. Amazing sounds, smells, and relaxation."

    2. Heritage Farms

    10 Reviews
    Peninsula, OH
    16 miles
    Website

    $35 - $55 / night

    "Located about ½ mile off the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, this campground is a part of a 5th generation working farm.  "

    "Privacy wasn't fully there like many other sites. No tree coverage, so be cautious in summertime heat. That being said, there was a two-open-sided A frame."

    3. Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Kirtland, OH
    13 miles
    Website

    $25 / night

    "Even with the colder weather it was nice and cozy. Plenty of fire wood provided and a short distance away from the gorge to walk."

    "Would have given this site 5 stars but the walk to the site was a bit more of a haul than expected. It was just myself, kids, and pup."

    4. Headwaters Park

    2 Reviews
    Middlefield, OH
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 286-9516

    $10 - $20 / night

    "I camped at site J the tent pad was level and easy to drive stakes into. I didn't use the toilets so can't comment on the cleanliness there."

    "Park has tent sites as well. Site G is a great setting and therefore books out more readily than other sites. Best for relaxation, chill kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, and shorter walks."

    5. Big Creek Park

    1 Review
    Chardon, OH
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 286-9516

    "Most of the trails are small, well-marked, accessible, and easily walkable for families."

    6. Ottawa Overlook Backcountry sites

    Be the first to review!
    Brecksville, OH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 526-1012

    $5 / night

    7. Lake Erie Bluffs

    2 Reviews
    Perry, OH
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 358-7275

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Site was a walk-in site with plenty of room. Fire wood and kindling were at the site waiting for us when we got there. We had a perfect view of the sunset from the site."

    "Walk in sites with a beautiful view of Lake Erie! Quiet, clean, well kept! Provided firewood was great! Able to watch Eagles soaring over Lake Erie listening to the waves hit the bluff below!"

    10. Rivers Edge Camping Area (Bridgeport Quarry Trailhead)

    3 Reviews
    Massillon, OH
    42 miles
    Website

    "Great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit. Portable toilet in parking lot."

    "Located near the Bridgeport Quarry Trailhead about 2.5 miles north of Massillon, OH in the Stark County Parks District. These sites are specifically designed for hikers/cyclists."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Chagrin Falls, OH

576 Reviews of 15 Chagrin Falls Campgrounds


  • Jen L.
    Aug. 23, 2018

    The West Woods

    Newer isn't always better

    There are 2 sites in the park both of which are walk in only and not close together. They are relatively small, 2-4 person tent only. Run by the Geauga Park District and only $5 for county residents, its cheap and looks it. Reservations must be made 3 days in advance, so no spur of the moment get aways. Basically it was just a space for a tent and a fire ring. No bathroom (about a half mile of trail away), no water, no picnic table, no alcohol. Basically I got the urge to camp in the early spring and wanted somewhere near home but I wouldn't stay there again, and wouldn't recommend anyone else do so either. However, the West Woods as a park is really nice with a nature center, hiking and bridle trails, just the campsite that was lacking.

  • d
    Jul. 24, 2018

    Jamestown Campground — Pymatuning State Park

    great spot for direct kayak/canoe put in.

    We stayed in site 218. this spot is in the smaller ( less crowded) part of Jamestown campground in Pymatuning SP. it is right on the water and has an easy access area for shore fishing and entering a kayak or canoe or some other water device. the site sits on a little bay and the otherside (more crowded) of the campground is across the water. the water is a little murky/ grassy but still good entry area. the campsite was spacious for a pa state park. the site is between the lake and the road. sites 212-222 look to be on the water with boat access, but 218 has the easiest entry. 220’s picnic Bench and fire pit sit next to the water with great views, but there is little shade. 218 had a great shady spot were you can hang 3 hammocks. there is no electricity at these sites and pretty much tent only. lots of tent space. the fire ring was decent but we moved it as it was right underneath a burnt tree. 218 was ADA accessible with a nice picnic table. restrooms were fairly close. clean... outdated, but clean.

  • Jennifer K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2022

    Mill Creek Camping — Berlin Lake Wildlife Area

    Beautiful but no peace and quiet

    Camp hosts were amazing and our spot was large and pretty. Our neighbors however were absolutely obnoxious. Just screaming obscenities nearly the whole time and were definitely drinking even though no alcohol is allowed in the park. Rangers drive by very frequently yet do absolutely nothing even after quiet hours start. Maybe it's not always like this but I may never return because of it. I want a nice quiet and relaxing time not put up with screaming drunks and kids. Also there was so much traffic constantly!

  • W
    Jun. 10, 2022

    Rivers Edge Camping Area (Bridgeport Quarry Trailhead)

    Great location

    Great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit. Portable toilet in parking lot. No running water but close to gas stations and restaurants. Only 12 minute drive over to Pro Football Hall of Fame.

  • Greg A.
    Jun. 5, 2018

    Punderson State Park Campground

    Meh.

    It could be an ok place if you get the right spot. Some of the sites are VERY SLOPED and some people parked campers in those spots and used very odd things to try and level them. 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. 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. If you get a good spot or are tent camping then it may be ok.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2018

    Heritage Farms

    Great for cyclists along the Towpath in Cuyahoga National Park

    Located about ½ mile off the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, this campground is a part of a 5th generation working farm.  Both standard campsites and shelters are available and are scattered among a working Christmas Tree farm.   A very sweet couple owns the place and runs the campground, George & Carol Haramis.

    Each site is situated on grass, has a picnic table, and fire ring (firewood is supplied with your campsite fee).  Both pit toilets and water are available to campers as well. Some are shaded and other sites have quite a bit of sun.  The shelters are robustly constructed, but don’t have much cross ventilation as they are only open to the front, so are quite hot in the heat of the summer, and provide no barrier to insects.  No electricity is available. Come prepared to hang your food (not for bears, but for mice).

    They prefer reservations, but happily accommodated our reservation-less lifestyle as it was early in the season.  Our shelter site was just next to the gravel parking area and overlooked the farm as well as had a great view of the sunset.  Unfortunately, you can hear the highway from the campground, despite the fact that it is located a good distance away. It didn’t bother us at night, but we definitely heard it first thing in the morning.

    Just down the road in the village of Peninsula, OH (and right next to the towpath) are Century Cycles (super helpful bike shop!!) and the Winking Lizard Tavern (fun restaurant/bar). After a long day of cycling, we enjoyed an adult beverage and some dessert after making dinner in the campground.

    More info here:  https://centurycycles.com/articles/camping-along-the-towpath-trail-pg1342.htm

  • C
    Jun. 28, 2021

    Jamestown Campground — Pymatuning State Park

    Another trip to Jamestown Campground

    My family has visited Pymatuning park many times now and try have used a variety of spots at Jamestown campground. It is large, offering multiple options for campsite types. It’s a standard PA state park campground offering bathrooms (bathrooms are older, but are being renovated July-August 2021) showers, fire ring, picnic table, etc. Campsites J-106 thru J-116 are well shaded, but are alongside route 322 which maintains consistent traffic at all hours. If the noise is not an issue, this run of tent sites are well spaced, and offer easy access to the facilities. To be away from the road (and nearer to the lake) sites J-120 thru J-128 are closer together but can be quieter (depending on your neighbors…)

    The beach area is clean, and raked often. It has a playground and volleyball court. On Friday’s they have a family movie night at the amphitheater. Most Saturdays in the summer they offer crafts and activities for kids at the beach.

    The surrounding area also has plenty of activities to offer: Local restaurants, ice cream, hiking, kayaking/boating, fishing, etc.

  • Skooma M.
    Jun. 24, 2022

    Findley State Park Campground

    Organized Group Site 2

    It was difficult to find pictures or reviews of the Findlay group sites. It honestly seemed to me that they didn't exist, so I thought I'd do the service of taking some pictures.

    The group sites are away from the main campsites, so you should have plenty of space for your group to set up and enough distance between them to not disturb the peace if you have a large group. OGA2 is heavily forested, I'm not sure about OGA1. There are plenty of trees so both hammock and tent campers should be accommodated. The fire pit is large and there are 4 picnic tables.

    The campsite is about 75 yards from the parking area, and there is a vault toilet right before the parking area.

  • M
    May. 31, 2024

    Jamestown Campground — Pymatuning State Park

    Pymatuning Jamestown

    Quiet park. Some road noise from campsite J100 but US route 322 is lightly traveled. Typical tent site with fire ring and picnic table. Across street from bath house with shower and toilet which was clean.


Guide to Chagrin Falls

Tent camping opportunities near Chagrin Falls, Ohio span across several county park systems within a 30-mile radius. The region sits on the western edge of the Allegheny Plateau with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet, creating varied terrain ideal for primitive camping experiences. Summer temperatures typically range from 60°F to 85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and occasionally muddy conditions.

What to do

Hiking and trail exploration: Lake Erie Bluffs offers direct access to shoreline hiking with opportunities to spot bald eagles. A camper notes, "Able to watch Eagles soaring over Lake Erie listening to the waves hit the bluff below!"

Fishing options: Big Creek Park provides stocked fishing ponds with dedicated docks. "There are a few ponds on the property, complete with fishing docs, that are stocked with bluegill and small man fish," mentions a visitor.

Cycling the Towpath Trail: Rivers Edge Camping Area provides strategic access to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath. "Only 12 minute drive over to Pro Football Hall of Fame," states one reviewer, highlighting its central location for regional attractions.

Birding opportunities: The West Woods offers exceptional bird watching with multiple species visible from campsites. A camper reported, "TONS OF BIRDS you will hear them all day long and see all sorts of different kinds."

What campers like

Private, secluded sites: Heritage Farms offers widely spaced sites among Christmas trees. A camper shares, "Our site was beautiful and private. We also had a lot of space. We couldn't really see or hear any other campers."

Raised tent pads: The West Woods features elevated tent platforms that provide protection during rainfall. One visitor explained, "Tent pad is raised so even though it rained and the water streamed through the middle of camp, tent was dry."

Lake views and sunsets: Lake Erie Bluffs provides direct shoreline access with prime sunset viewing. "We had a perfect view of the sunset from the site. Sounds from the lake and birds," reports a recent camper.

Lean-to options: Several parks offer three-sided shelters as alternatives to traditional tent camping. A Headwaters Park visitor advises, "Campsite G is the one. It is an open lean to with a stone fireplace facing the inside of the three sided wooden structure."

What you should know

Tick awareness: Lake Erie Bluffs requires extra caution during warm months. A camper warned, "We had two ticks on us relatively soon after getting there but didn't see any others all night. So be especially careful if you have pets!"

Firewood restrictions: Most sites have specific firewood policies due to invasive species concerns. At Heritage Farms, "If you plan on having a fire, you have to purchase wood from them because you can't bring your own (it's a tree farm)."

Bathroom access: Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite and similar sites have limited facilities. "The walk to the site was a bit more of a haul than expected. It was just myself, kids, and pup. So it made setting up camp a bit more work," notes a camper regarding the distance to facilities.

Water availability: Most primitive sites require bringing your own drinking water. At Rivers Edge, a camper noted, "No running water but close to gas stations and restaurants."

Tips for camping with families

Pack light or bring a wagon: The best tent camping near Chagrin Falls, Ohio often requires walking gear to sites. A West Woods visitor advises, "Site is about a quarter mile from the parking lot so pack light, bring a wagon, and/or be ready for a work out."

Consider proximity to water play: Big Creek Park offers child-friendly water features. "Part of a larger county park system, Big Creek Great park has a little bit of everything. Most of the trails are small, well-marked, accessible, and easily walkable for families," shares a reviewer.

Safety considerations: Some sites have terrain features requiring supervision. One camper at The West Woods noted, "In near a slope which leads to the river, which the kids loved but younger kids might find dangerous."

Check park events calendar: Special events may affect camping experience. A Lake Erie Bluffs visitor warned, "There was a firefly run that took place in the park starting at 8:45pm. It was a big event with music and tons of people that we could hear from our site."

Tips from RVers

Alternative accommodations: For RVers seeking tent camping alternatives near Chagrin Falls, consider Heritage Farms' lean-to options. A visitor shared, "I pulled in around 6:30 looking for a tent site for one night mid week, there was no one else staying at the campground. They only have tent sites- I was looking for a spot that allowed a close car- i did not want to hike my gear. I was given a leantoto with close car access."

Distance considerations: Most campgrounds near Chagrin Falls cannot accommodate large RVs or provide hookups, making them better suited for car camping with small tents. For RV camping, consider locations further from town with proper facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Chagrin Falls, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Chagrin Falls, OH is The West Woods with a 3.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Chagrin Falls, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Chagrin Falls, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.