Campgrounds near Cortland, Ohio feature predominantly flat terrain with elevations between 850-1100 feet above sea level throughout Trumbull County. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F, ideal for camping from late May through September. Most campgrounds in this region are situated near lakes or ponds, with fishing opportunities being a common attraction across facilities.
What to do
Fishing ponds and lakes: Kool Lakes Family RV Park features multiple fishing areas where campers report good catches. "Our kids age 4 and 8 fished from sun up Saturday to about noon and then sporadically after that throughout the day. That night we hunted large bull frogs. All catch and release," shares one visitor at Kool Lakes Family RV Park.
Mini golf and games: Several campgrounds offer recreational activities beyond water features. "They have all the amenities a family could want such as swimming pool, playground, mini-golf, and more!" notes a camper at Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake.
Hiking nearby: The Nelson-Kennedy Ledges area provides trail options close to camping. "There are numerous trails for different skill levels and tons of caves to explore. Also the view at the end is fantastic and is a great place to relax and read for the day," reports a visitor to Nelson-Kennedy Ledges Quarry Park.
What campers like
Friendly staff assistance: Campground hosts frequently receive positive mentions for their helpfulness. "When I first got here the 2 owners went above and beyond in so many ways. Unfortunately they didn't have a 50 amp site available so the owner gave me 30 amp converter at no cost and also helped me hook up my gray water and black water connections," notes a camper at Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms stand out in reviews. "We loved the clean bathrooms and appreciated the staff's effort to maintain services while encouraging social distancing," reports a visitor to Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake.
Community atmosphere: Many campgrounds foster social environments. "Kenisee Lake RV Campground is a great place with a lot of events and entertainment for families. Multiple fishing ponds, Friday night bingo, bands, fishing tournament for kids, duck race, Christmas in July and many other activities," shares a seasonal camper.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. "Sites are large and the area is peaceful. The area is well kept and owners are very nice," notes a camper at Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds close between October and April. "Kenisee Lake RV Resort has 30 and 50 amp FHU back-in and pull-through sites. The only downside is the internet which is lacking in this area," reports a visitor.
Golf cart traffic: Some campgrounds have heavy golf cart usage. "The 5 mph rule is strictly enforced, which is great. And it appears either due to our late in the season arrival or an increase in monitoring of nighttime activities, older, negative reviews we came across have been remedied," shares a camper at Roundup Lake RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer water recreation for children. "The pool and playground are awesome for the kiddos. There are a ton of permanent sites which the folks are all very friendly. The resort is golf cart friendly and that's how most get around," shares a visitor to RV Village Camping Resort.
Tent camping considerations: While RV sites dominate, tent options exist with limitations. "Stayed here for a girls weekend in Geneva at one of the tent sites. The tent area was small (this is mostly an RV Park), but it was a good spot to stay! Showers and bathrooms available as well as electric hookups," notes a camper at Kenisee's Grand River Campground.
Off-peak benefits: Camping outside summer months offers quieter experiences. "We arrived mid-September 2020, so Covid has had its impact and it's past Labor Day so pools/lakes are likely closed to swimming most years anyway, but given the size and amenities this campground boasts, I feel it must be a real attractive campground for families during the summer," shares a visitor at Roundup Lake RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "We enjoyed the back-in sites with water and electric hookups because they were larger and more private and wooded. The fire ring was so easy to cook on that now I'm spoiled!" advises an RVer who stayed at Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "Kenisee Lake RV Campground is a wonderful place to work from remotely if you have an external antenna to cellular internet," notes a mobile worker.
Campground styles: RV camping near Cortland, Ohio ranges from resort-style to basic facilities. "The campground is clean with plenty of open space and trails. The staff was wonderful. I called because I was going to arrive late past closing hours. They checked me in over the phone and left all of my site information on the outside of the building," shares a satisfied camper.
