2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
West Branch State Park Campground supports equestrian activities with 20 miles of trails open to horses. The park comprises more than 5,000 acres with extensive trail networks that accommodate horseback riding alongside hiking and snowmobiling. Individual campsites provide standard amenities including fire rings and picnic tables, while the campground features clean bathroom facilities and shower houses with laundry options. The bridle trails connect throughout the park's wooded areas, offering riders varied terrain and scenic views of Kirwan Reservoir. Water access points allow horses to drink during trail rides.
Located approximately 15 miles from Cuyahoga Valley National Park, West Branch serves as a convenient base for exploring both park systems. The bridle trails remain accessible year-round, though conditions vary seasonally with some trails becoming muddy after rainfall. Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday (also known as Bear Creek Ranch) offers another option for horse enthusiasts visiting the region. Trail riders frequently note the well-maintained paths through the park's forest sections. Horse owners should bring their own containment systems as dedicated corrals are not provided at most sites. The campground's large, wooded sites accommodate horse trailers, though reservation planning is essential, especially for lakeside spots which typically book six months in advance during peak season.
"This state park has a lot to offer with the highlight being a large 2,650-lake that appeals to fishermen, boaters, and swimmers."
"Stayed in two different areas of West Branch State Park while visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Very impressed with large, clean bath houses, including fully private showers."
Available this weekend
from $29 - $40 / night
"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."
"They told me Ohio State Parks were voted #1 in the US. Well there is a reason for that. Beautiful, clean, great spots, not a bad site in the entire park."
Available this weekend
from $23 - $80 / night
"Overall me and the kids had a really nice time hanging atbthe site and exploring around the lake. Lots of friendly people too."
"Best for relaxation, chill kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, and shorter walks. Four stars because it is not a vast wilderness adjacent experience."
from $10 - $20 / night
"Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly. Would def recommend anyone to go."
ScoutI struggled making a reservation online, you need an account and it wouldn’t let me make one but i was able to call in and reserve a spot same day. I’m traveling to the east coast and just needed a place to pitch a tent for the night. worked perfect.
GuideWe were passing through on a weeknight in mid September. Many open sites. Sites are paved and many are sloped. Most are shaded. Our site #41 was fairly level with electricity. Close to huge bathhouse with flush toilets, showers and laundry. High above the lake with views through the trees. Appeared there were many long term campers but just as good for our short overnight stay. Online registration. $45 for electric only site.
GuideMosquito Lake gets a bad rap because of its name. We had such a great time launching our kayak from our campsite! I’ve attached a highlighted map marked with the sights on or very close to the water to launch a kayak. Additional kayak launch sites available around the park if you can’t get one of these. It’s great campground if you have kids or a dog. Plenty of great playgrounds and a dog park/dog beach. The camp host was very nice and welcoming. The wash house has laundry and showers. Everything was clean.
GuideHad a nice stay at the Camp Site A tent site, which they label as their ADA Accessible site.
Overall me and the kids had a really nice time hanging atbthe site and exploring around the lake. Lots of friendly people too.
Pros:
Cons:
FAQ:
GuideI've heard there are campgrounds that discriminate against car camping, first time experiencing it. There are many sites where people have a LARGE camper, a car, and multiple tents spread out over a large area. We have 2 SUV's with tents that attach to the backs. We followed all the rules and are taking up about HALF of our site. We were told that is not allowed. When asked for reasoning and comparing to what we've seen around the park, we get no clear answer that makes sense. We are here with a group that rented about 20 sites. After spending 4 hours setting everything up, she says one may have to leave; she's waiting to hear from her boss. I will definitely never return here!
ScoutWhen we arrived, we checked in at the camp office. The ladies there were very kind. The roads through the campground are wide enough for two-way traffic and nicely paved.
This is a beautiful, heavily treed campground. Even on Memorial Day weekend with lots of people, the park was very peaceful. The sounds of birds permeate the air round the clock. Chipmunks run amok. They’re just so cute.
We booked site 56 for our 39’ fifth wheel. As soon as we pulled up, we knew there was no way we’d fit even though the reservation site said it would accommodate a 40’ rig. The camp hosts happened to be passing by as we were surveying the site. They were very helpful redirecting us to a nearby site that would be more suitable. FYI, sites 55 and 56 have deep culverts on either side. One wrong turn and you’re going to have a problem. The majority of sites along our road were just wide enough to keep the tires out of the dirt, but not wide enough for the stairs to land on asphalt. If you have a motorhome or other wide-bodied rig, like an Alliance Paradigm, I would recommend choosing one of the sites on the loop around the playground. Those are better suited for newer big rigs.
TIP…the line at the dump station is long on the holiday weekends. Plan accordingly.
GuideFirst time here. They told me Ohio State Parks were voted #1 in the US. Well there is a reason for that. Beautiful, clean, great spots, not a bad site in the entire park. Wood is dry and cheap right outside the park entrance. Bass fishing is top notch on the lake. I would definitely come back here again and again.
ScoutWe live really close so we stay at mosquito for our first stay every year. This year we were disappointed. They had no staff there to check us in, the signs says closed Monday through Wednesday. Bathrooms were supposed to be open because we stayed April 16th, but only some of them were. (Even though online states April 1st they reopen). Some sites are more wet than others. We stayed at site 54 this time. The pad was very narrow and it was wet around it (it has been raining a lot). The person before us must have purchased a $12 bale of hay that they were selling up front because there was hay everywhere. Wish they would just put gravel down.
Otherwise, it's quiet. We love the nature play area for the kids. We love the playgrounds.
When they are open, the bathrooms are very clean. The shower house is dated but clean. Far walk from every site basically as they put it on the main road between both loops.
GuideFirst time at this park I can see why it's always booked up. It seems like the sites are good sized but some are on slopes even the pads so make sure to bring stuff to level. Bathrooms were clean separate showers verizon works well here.
West Branch State Park Campground features over 5,000 acres of terrain with more than 20 miles of bridle trails connecting throughout the wooded areas surrounding Kirwan Reservoir. The trails accommodate multiple seasonal activities, with conditions varying according to weather patterns. Several water access points allow horses to hydrate during rides, though riders should note that dedicated corrals aren't available at most sites.
Trail riding year-round: Equestrian trails remain accessible during all seasons, though West Branch State Park has specific conditions to consider. According to rider Jim L., "There are many trails and even a dog park next to the lake," making it versatile for visitors with both horses and pets.
Boating from campsites: Many lakefront sites at West Branch State Park Campground allow direct water access. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite," notes Alisa G., highlighting the convenience for campers with personal watercraft.
Explore multiple waterways: The extensive lake system offers numerous areas for recreation. At Mosquito Lake State Park Campground, camper Karen D. explains, "Some sites have access to the lake for kayaking/swimming/fishing. We like to bring our bows and use the archery range."
Private, spacious sites: West Branch offers substantial separation between camping areas. According to Dan M., the park has "clean individual showers" that complement the "private sites." This privacy extends to the waterfront locations.
Large waterfront campsites: The lake access points receive consistent praise from campers. Rino S. at West Branch State Park Campground notes: "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. Beach is right next door too!"
Recreational amenities: Beyond horseback riding, the parks offer additional facilities. Heidi B. from Mosquito Lake mentions, "Campground is flat and great for bike riding. Nice playground for kids. Dog park nearby. Camp is near beach & marina."
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require preparation for level setup. Andrea F. notes about West Branch: "Our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches."
Reservation timing: Securing preferred sites requires advance planning. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G., particularly for lakeside spots during peak season.
Primitive facilities at some locations: Mosquito Lake State Park Campground has specific infrastructure limitations. Courtney C. points out: "No real bathrooms except at the front of the park. No place to wash dishes. Rough if you're tent camping."
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly recreational areas. Joe F. from Mosquito Lake shares: "Beach was great and there's an epic playground for kids. If your kids are 8 and under they'll love the nature playground and nets provided to catch critters."
Weekend activities: Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch offers regular programming for families. Lisa D. mentions, "This is our favorite KOA! I have 4 kids and return at least 1x per year. Great family owned KOA. Horseback riding on site."
Beach access considerations: Different swimming areas have varying conditions. Jill T. from West Branch notes: "Swimming area is alright, a little muddy in areas, but the beach is kept clean. There are little hideaway trails everywhere, making for a fun adventure!"
Water fill station design: Some infrastructure elements present challenges for larger vehicles. Andrea F. comments about West Branch: "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."
Site selection for trailers: Canton-East Sparta KOA offers variable site quality. Rick K. observes: "Mostly gravel site...Stepped up hill gravel sites. Very difficult to ride bikes on loose gravel." Consider site location when hauling horse trailers.
Full hookup availability: While many sites are primitive, some campgrounds offer complete services. Heidi B. from Mosquito Lake explains: "Sites are spacious and level. Very clean park. There are several full hook-up sites. Electric sites near the lake."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Cuyahoga Valley National Park is West Branch State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 69 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 equestrian camping locations near Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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