Tent campsites near Cortland, Ohio sit within the Western Reserve region where glacial topography creates rolling landscapes with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season. Many campgrounds operate within working farms or parks with unique ecological features.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: The West Woods offers multiple trail options from the campground area. A reviewer noted, "Great small park with a hiking trail that takes about an hour or hour and a half, it has a waterfall, small tiny cave, bridges and stairs. Really well maintained paths, tiny gravel for less mud. Doggy friendly!" The park also features a 3-mile bridle trail loop perfect for trail running.
Fishing opportunities: Big Creek Park provides stocked fishing ponds with convenient access. "There are a few ponds on the property, complete with fishing docs, that are stocked with bluegill and small man fish," mentions one camper who recommends bringing fishing rods to enhance your camping experience.
Lake activities: Lake Erie Bluffs offers primitive tent camping with stunning lake views. A camper reported, "Able to watch Eagles soaring over Lake Erie listening to the waves hit the bluff below!" The park includes swimming areas and a dog beach within walking distance of the campgrounds.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Heritage Farms receives praise for its site arrangement within a Christmas tree farm. One camper shared, "I stayed here with some friends for one night and I would love to go back... Our site was beautiful and private. We also had a lot of space. We couldn't really see or hear any other campers."
Unique camping structures: Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite offers cozy accommodations even in cooler weather. A reviewer mentioned, "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." The campground creates a secluded forest experience.
Accommodating hosts: Quiet and Secluded campground, located just across the Pennsylvania border, earns consistent praise for hospitality. One camper noted, "Rolled up on the later side but was welcomed kindly by the owner Bill. Beautiful spot. Clean amenities!" Another review added, "Host was very accommodating. Great time."
What you should know
Pack light for walk-in sites: Many primitive tent sites require significant walking. At Penitentiary Glen, a camper cautioned, "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."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites have minimal amenities. At Headwaters Park, a reviewer mentioned, "I didn't use the toilets so can't comment on the cleanliness there. The noise carries from other sites so, your neighbors will make or break how well you sleep here."
Advance reservations required: For The West Woods, "Reservations must be made 3 days in advance, so no spur of the moment get aways." Most campgrounds in the region maintain similar policies, with online reservation systems locking out last-minute bookings.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly sites: Pioneer Trails Tree Farm provides a unique environment for children. A reviewer noted, "My family and I had a great time. It was very easy and relaxing. The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids."
Consider site accessibility: When camping with children, transportation of gear becomes important. A Lake Erie Bluffs camper observed, "Site A is a closer walk but I personally liked the setup of site B better!" Evaluating distance from parking to campsite can make setup much easier with children.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds report significant wildlife activity. At Penitentiary Glen, a camper reported, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True RV camping near Cortland is scarce. At Heritage Farms, one camper who typically RVs noted, "When the campgrounds in the National Park were filled and I needed a place to land for the night, I ended up at Heritage Farms in a sunny shelter with a beautiful landscape of growing Christmas trees and gorgeous sunset."
Consider bicycle access: For those who combine RV travel with cycling, the region offers good options. A Heritage Farms reviewer explained, "Located about ½ mile off the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, this campground is a part of a 5th generation working farm... After a long day of cycling, we enjoyed an adult beverage and some dessert after making dinner in the campground."
