Clinton, Ohio sits at an elevation of 1,060 feet with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and moderately cold winters. The region receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually, with camping season typically running from May through October. Most campgrounds in the area occupy former farmland or wooded areas near small lakes and reservoirs.
What to do
Water recreation: paddling and swimming: West Branch State Park Campground in Wayland offers excellent kayaking opportunities on the calm reservoir. "We also took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear," notes Andrea F., who visited in July. The park also features a camper beach that's "small but nice and clean" according to the same reviewer.
Fishing: stock up on gear: Rivers Edge Camping Area provides access to the Tuscarawas River for fishing. "There is a nice path through the woods down to the reservoir, where you can fish and kayak," explains Whiskey B. The primitive camping area has pit toilets in the parking lot but no drinking water, so bring supplies.
Hiking trails: varied difficulty levels: Mohican State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails with natural features. "The hiking trails are great with a covered bridge, overlook and waterfalls," says Andrea F. For backpackers, John H. notes, "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites."
Winter activities: off-season options: Countryside Campground remains open through late October with seasonal events. "When we arrived the kids were trick or treating to each camp spot," reports Erin after an October visit. Some campgrounds like Evergreen Park RV Resort stay open year-round, with Beth G. noting the park has "no mud puddles, not even at water hook up" despite rainy conditions.
What campers like
Spacious sites: room to spread out: Countryside Campground offers large camping areas. "Clean campground with ample parking space. Rec hall, playground, dog park. Propane is on site," writes John R. The campground's tent sites are particularly roomy according to Jessica R., who mentions, "We stayed a few nights on Tent site 4 and had a blast!"
Privacy between sites: West Branch State Park Campground has wooded sites that create separation. "West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite," notes Alisa G., who visits annually. Another camper, dan M., simply states the park has "very private sites" and "clean individual showers."
Clean facilities: well-maintained restrooms: Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA maintains high standards for their facilities. "The staff was friendly, the amenities were clean, and the campground was quite serene," Amanda K. explains. Rae Ann P. adds that the KOA has "great shower/restrooms conveniently located" and a "wonderful staff" that keeps things "clean and efficient."
Family amenities: pools and playgrounds: Glamping close to Clinton, Ohio often includes access to recreational facilities. At American Wilderness Campground, families appreciate the "nice heated pool and many activities in the area. Hiking, canoeing, biking, etc.," as Wesley S. describes. For luxury glamping near Clinton, Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday offers unique features, with Lisa D. noting it's "our favorite KOA! I have 4 kids and return at least 1x per year. Great family owned KOA. Horseback riding on site."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: check hours: Many campground amenities have specific operating hours or seasons. At American Wilderness Campground, J R. notes, "During the week is a ghost town 👏 this time of year," referring to fall camping. Seasons vary by facility, with most open May through October.
Reservation requirements: book ahead: Popular sites at West Branch State Park Campground fill quickly. Alisa G. advises, "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" This is especially important for luxury glamping options near Clinton during summer weekends.
Site selection: check for level ground: Choose sites carefully as terrain varies. At West Branch, Andrea F. warns, "Our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke... front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches." Despite this challenge, she still rated the experience 5 stars, stating, "Severe Sloping Site Won't Keep Us From Having Fun."
Water conditions: varies by location: Water quality and availability differ between campgrounds. For glamping accommodations near Clinton, Ohio, some offer full hookups while others have more primitive setups. At Clay's Resort Jellystone Park, Chuck E. reported the lake was "virtually algae free, and even during this pandemic, it didn't feel over crowded at any point."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: structured programs: Clay's Resort Jellystone Park offers numerous activities for children. "This campground is large with a water park that has Ziplining and other great activities for the family," says Linda R. Michael J. adds, "have been camping at Clays for a couple years now and if you have kids there is no place better tons of things to do."
Safety considerations: swimming areas: West Branch State Park has designated swimming zones with safety measures. "The camper beach was small but nice and clean," reports Andrea F. The park also features a "book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," according to Alisa G., who adds that "the park office loans games and sports equipment to campers."
Wildlife encounters: prepare accordingly: At Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA, Traci F. shares, "Every night we were visited by raccoons, they stole our trash on the first night but the other nights we kept everything out of their reach. There were fun little raccoon hand prints all over though." Secure food and trash properly at all campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: what to expect: For luxury glamping near Clinton, Ohio, Countryside Campground provides essential services. Kathryn P. reports, "Each site comes with a fire ring and picnic table both in good condition. The pull thru sites were a tad small but nice and long." She also notes that "there is a nice path through the woods down to the reservoir."
Dump station locations: West Branch State Park Campground maintains year-round access to certain facilities. Andrea F. reports, "This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off" during off-season camping.
Site sizing limitations: At Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA, site dimensions may affect larger rigs. Scott C. notes, "The site was level and easy to hook up to," but other reviewers mention proximity between sites. This KOA offers convenient access to Cleveland and Cuyahoga Valley National Park, making it popular for those seeking glamping experiences near Clinton, Ohio.
