Punderson State Park offers diverse camping options near Chardon, Ohio. The region's glacial topography creates a mix of forests, lakes, and rolling terrain at elevations between 900-1,300 feet. Winter camping is available at select sites with temperatures typically dropping to 20-30°F during December-February, while summer months see temperatures averaging 75-85°F.
What to do
Fishing and boating: Punderson State Park Campground provides access to a 150-acre glacial lake with multiple fishing spots. "Beautiful scenery, very large park, fishing, boat rentals, man made beach, loooong floating boardwalk, lots of trails, unique sites and tons of history," notes Daniel U.
Archery practice: Mosquito Lake State Park Campground offers an archery range for camping visitors. "We come here at least once, sometimes twice per year - we travel about 2 hours to get there... We like to bring our bows and use the archery range," shares Karen D.
Disc golf courses: Several parks in the area feature disc golf facilities. "The camp is beautiful. Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," mentions Rebecca G. about Punderson State Park.
Nature playground exploration: Mosquito Lake provides specialized areas for children. "Beach was great and there an epic playground for kids. If your kids are 8 and under they'll love the nature playground and nets provided to catch critters," writes Joe F.
What campers like
Hill campsites: Punderson State Park Campground features unique elevated tent sites. "Really cool 'hill' sites that you have to hike up or down 20-100 feet to your wooded site," explains Daniel U. These elevated platforms offer distinct camping experiences compared to traditional sites.
Lakefront access: Many campers appreciate direct water access from their sites. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," writes Katelyn P. about her experience at West Branch State Park.
Yurt camping: For those interested in yurt camping near Chardon, Ohio, The Farm at Grand River offers yurt accommodations on working farmland. "My 6 year old daughter lived her farm animal dream life for a week! The hosts were so accommodating. My daughter loved the free movie nights under stars, running wild with the goats," shares Hillz M.
Well-spaced sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy between sites. "West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite," explains Alisa G. about the West Branch layout.
What you should know
Site elevation variations: Be prepared for uneven terrain at certain campgrounds. "The lots are not even close the level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level. Saw one RV with auto levelers with his tire about foot off the ground," warns Coy about Punderson State Park.
Seasonal algae conditions: Water quality varies throughout the season. "The algae was kind of thick, which made fishing impossible, so we stopped bringing the kayak," notes Rose S. about Mosquito Lake.
Bathroom facilities vary: West Branch State Park Campground receives praise for its restroom facilities. "Best bathrooms around! Showers great. Bathrooms great. Lots of 'lakefront' spots. Dog park is pretty great, too!" shares Kim B.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Several parks accommodate pets with specific amenities. "This park is one of my favorites in Ohio at this time. Most of the sites are some what private. There are many trails and even a fog park next to the lake," explains Jim L. about Mosquito Lake State Park.
Farm-based yurt experiences: Kenisee's Grand River Campground offers a community atmosphere. "It's a great place with a lot of events and entertainment for family's. Multiple fishing ponds, Friday night bingo, bands, fishing tournament for kids, duck race, Christmas in July and many other activities," says Kent R.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events. "An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," mentions Alisa G. about West Branch's programming.
Book exchange options: Some parks provide rainy day alternatives. "There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," shares Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Headwaters Park provides basic amenities but limited hookups. "Campsite G is the one. It is an open lean to with a stone fireplace facing the inside of the three sided wooden structure," explains Rebecca G.
Water tank filling: Be aware of infrastructure limitations. "First 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 from who ever designed the park," notes Andrea F. about West Branch.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers before booking. "I had originally gotten lot #81 but quickly got it switched to #83 because it was just waaaay better. Flatter ground and I was able to go deeper into the woods," advises Zachary A. about his experience at Punderson.
Security features: Some campgrounds offer controlled access. "Gated entry with provided code after payment given. We arrived after dark and had a little trouble finding our spot. Only because it was too easy, lol," shares Mary Elisabeth D. about Kenisee's Grand River Campground.
