Camping sites near Gates Mills, Ohio offer diverse outdoor experiences in the rolling hills and river valleys of northeastern Ohio. Located in Lake County, the area sits at elevations ranging from 650 to 1,200 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below 20°F, while summer camping spots often fill quickly due to moderate 80°F days.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Punderson State Park Campground features an 18-hole course among its many recreational options. "The park is beautiful. Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoeing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," notes Rebecca G., highlighting the variety of activities available at this year-round facility.
Water recreation access: West Branch State Park Campground provides multiple water-based activities with its many inlets and lake access. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," shares Alisa G., describing the direct lake access available at waterfront sites.
Geocaching opportunities: Several parks offer geocaching trails for technology-enhanced treasure hunting. "We also took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear. We also played some disc golf and went geocaching," explains Andrea F. from West Branch State Park, mentioning the park's multiple activity options beyond just water sports.
What campers like
Diverse site layouts: Silver Springs Campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites with varied terrain. "The lots are nice and large. The main problem was very hard to level and soft grass they don't have a well compacted area for your tt/rv," reports Jeffrey L., noting the spaciousness despite leveling challenges.
Dog-friendly amenities: Some parks feature dedicated dog areas. "The bathrooms are portojons and there are no showers, however there is THE best dog park I have ever seen in this area. So my dogs loved this campground more than me and that was worth it," shares Kate W. about Silver Springs Campground, highlighting an unexpected pet-friendly feature.
Private walking trails: Heritage Farms offers unique camping among Christmas trees with walking paths. "There is also a wooded walking trail network on the east and North sides of the campground," notes Gary G., mentioning trails directly accessible from the camping area.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region feature uneven terrain. "The camp grounds for RV's is not the best. Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service. The lots are not even close to level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level," warns Coy from Punderson State Park.
Reservation timing strategies: Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA offers a central location for exploring the region but requires planning. "We stopped here for a couple nights to go to a Cleveland Guardians game and go to Cuyahoga National Park. It was within great proximity to both and had all the amenities the kids and I love," shares Jennifer H., highlighting its strategic location.
Limited bathroom facilities: Many primitive sites have basic facilities. "Bathrooms are just port-a-johns located on either side of the campground but there are flushable toilets a little walk away," explains Abbey E. about Heritage Farms, noting the distance to facilities from some sites.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Many parks offer wildlife viewing areas. "Super loud campground. The closest area to camp to the National Park. Nice shaded tent sites but you'll have to haul your stuff uphill & then it's not too private. The camp resort building & boardwalk were pretty neat to check out," shares Renée C. about Punderson State Park.
Playground access: Perry Township Park provides beachfront camping with family amenities. "Stopped through for 1 night with no reservation. Called and the camp host was super helpful and friendly! The lake view was amazing! Very quiet and small location…perfect for what we wanted for the evening," reports Blythe B. about this small lakeside park.
Wagon-friendly campgrounds: Some sites require equipment transportation. "Be prepared - you park near the front of the campgrounds to check in, and then you are provided wagons to carry your gear to your site. It is kind of a fun adventure," explains Abbey E. about Heritage Farms, describing the site access process that kids might enjoy as an adventure.
Tips from RVers
Electric service limitations: Check amperage availability before booking. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service. The lots are not even close the level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level. Saw one RV with auto levelers with his tire about foot off the ground," cautions Coy at Punderson State Park.
Site selection strategy: The West Woods offers primitive tent-only sites with specific considerations. "Site is about a quarter mile from the parking lot so pack light, bring a wagon, and/or be ready for a work out. Tent pad is raised so even though it rained and the water streamed through the middle of camp, tent was fine," advises Zachary A., highlighting the walk-in nature of these sites.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds have limited seasons. "I pulled in around 6:30 looking for a tent site for one night mid week, there was no one else staying at the campground. They only have tent sites- I was looking for a spot that allowed a close car- I did not want to hike my gear. I was given a leanto with close car access," shares alyssa F. about Heritage Farms' accommodations outside peak season.
