Tent campsites near Elyria, Ohio range from basic walk-in sites to more developed options. Located in northeastern Ohio about 25 miles west of Cleveland, Elyria sits within a region characterized by rolling hills and river valleys with elevations between 715 and 850 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F while winter camping faces lows often dropping below 20°F.
What to do
Nature hiking trails: Within The West Woods, campers can access multiple hiking paths directly from tent sites. 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."
Cycling on Towpath Trail: Heritage Farms provides easy access for cyclists along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. "Located about ½ mile off the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, this campground is a part of a 5th generation working farm. Both standard campsites and shelters are available and are scattered among a working Christmas Tree farm," reports one camper.
River activities: Rivers Edge Camping Area offers tent camping alongside the Tuscarawas River. "Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit. Portable toilet in parking lot. No running water but close to gas stations and restaurants. Only 12 minute drive over to Pro Football Hall of Fame," states a camper.
Wildlife watching: Bird watching is particularly good in wooded camp areas near Elyria. A camper at The West Woods mentioned, "TONS OF BIRDS you will hear them all day long and see all sorts of different kinds. Really pretty and relaxing scenery overall."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate the seclusion at Heritage Farms. One reviewer shared, "We couldn't really see or hear any other campers," while another noted, "The spots are all tucked into different spots on the tree farm. I had a great view of the sunrise from my spot on the hill."
Elevated tent platforms: Several camping locations feature raised tent pads that help during wet conditions. A camper at The West Woods explained, "Tent pad is raised so even though it rained and the water streamed through the middle of camp, tent was dry."
Firewood service: At select campgrounds, firewood delivery is available directly to your site. "One thing I loved is that they will bring the wood up to your campsite for you. You are able to buy some from them at other times (they have a sign on how to do so at each site) and they will drive it up again," reported a Heritage Farms camper.
Basic amenities: Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite provides essential camping needs. "Plenty of fire wood provided and a short distance away from the gorge to walk," noted one visitor, while another mentioned, "Its like you have the forest to yourselves out here."
What you should know
Gear transport: Many tent sites require carrying equipment from parking areas. A Heritage Farms camper advised, "Be prepared for a work out. It took some work but we got all of our gear up with the wagon."
Water availability: Most tent-specific campgrounds near Elyria lack drinking water. At Rivers Edge Camping Area, "There is no drinking water available, so plan a head from nearby sources. About ½ mile north of this camping area is a cross street where you will find drinking water fountain on the towpath."
Walking distances: Some sites require substantial walks from parking. A West Woods camper explained, "Site is about a quarter mile from the parking lot so pack light, bring a wagon, and/or be ready for a work out."
Toilet facilities: Bathroom options vary widely between campgrounds. At Heritage Farms, "Bathrooms are port-a-johns back near where the car was parked. So it can be a little bit of a hike if you have a far campsite."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds have specific booking rules. The West Woods requires that "Reservations must be made 3 days in advance, so no spur of the moment get aways."
Tips for camping with families
Terrain considerations: When camping with children, evaluate site locations carefully. At The West Woods, one camper noted of their site, "In near a slope which leads to the river, which the kids loved but younger kids might find dangerous."
Space for activities: Certain sites offer ample room for children. At Hidden Hollow Camp, one group leader reported, "We have camped here multiple times with out scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen."
Proximity to attractions: Some sites provide easy access to family-friendly destinations. A Heritage Farms camper mentioned, "Extremely close proximity to CVNP. lots of room for kiddos to run wild."
Weather preparation: Be ready for rapid weather changes, especially with children. A Heritage Farms visitor recommended, "The photos make it seem like most of the sites provide cover, but I think there's only 3 or so with a shelter. Something to keep in mind, would've been helpful during the rainy night."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near Elyria don't accommodate RVs, and those that do have specific restrictions. Rivers Edge Camping Area technically allows RVs but with very limited space that's primarily designed for tent camping.
Alternative camping: Consider cabins or shelters as alternatives to RV camping. A Heritage Farms camper shared, "We stayed in a lean to and it was so much fun! The bathroom was a Port o potty but it was very well maintained and clean."
Parking limitations: Even campgrounds that technically allow RVs often have restricted parking. A camper noted, "You park near the front of the campgrounds to check in, and then you are provided wagons to carry your gear to your site."
