Private campsites and RV sites near Gates Mills, Ohio cluster around lake regions within 30 miles of this suburban community. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 700 and 1,100 feet, featuring mixed hardwood forests that provide natural shade. Seasonal operations typically run April through October, with cooler spring temperatures in the 50s-60s°F and summer averages in the 70s-80s°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Kool Lakes Family RV Park, campers can fish directly from lakeside sites. "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," writes one visitor who enjoyed site A24's waterfront access.
Water recreation: Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake provides multiple swimming options with two pools and proximity to Lake Erie beaches. "It close to many activities in Geneva on the lake, the strip! Nice landscaping and a great camp store at the entrance. Lots of amenities. Hall, restaurant, pool, fitness center, activities center," notes one camper who valued the location.
Hiking trails: Wooded areas surrounding campgrounds offer hiking opportunities, particularly at Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake where one camper reported "plenty of open space and trails" that made it ideal for remote working with an external cellular antenna.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground earns praise for its well-maintained grounds and generous site dimensions. "Level gravel sites with really great grassy areas. We stayed memorial weekend and it was quiet by 9 every night. They do a great job keeping the park looking beautiful," writes one repeat visitor.
Lake activities: Woodside Lake Park features water-based recreation that families particularly enjoy. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities," notes one regular visitor who stays multiple times annually.
Weekend events: Many campgrounds coordinate themed activities for guests. At Kenisee's Grand River Campground, a visitor mentioned "a lot of events and entertainment for family's. Multiple fishing ponds, Friday night bingo, bands, fishing tournament for kids, duck race, Christmas in July and many other activities."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: In addition to previously noted issues at Woodside Lake Park, visitors should prepare for variable water quality. One 2025 reviewer described "iron & sulfur laden well water" requiring additional filtration, recommending: "Reserve a space at your own risk and definitely verify where and what water source you are on. Bring plenty of filters."
Site leveling needs: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring preparation. At Punderson State Park Campground, one visitor cautioned: "The sites greatly very on size and flatness so make sure you look at the pictures of the site before you book some are basically the parking pad and a fire ring, some are big and flat some are on an incline."
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds near Gates Mills. Kenisee's Grand River Campground uses gated entry with provided access codes after payment, allowing for secure late arrivals when arranged in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Roundup Lake RV Resort offers lake swimming with inflatable play structures. "Given the size and amenities this campground boasts, I feel it must be a real attractive campground for families during the summer. Campsites surround a sizable lake which boasts inflatables as well as enough room for self-propelled water crafts," observed one September visitor.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain playground equipment for younger children. At Woodside Lake Park, a visitor with tent camping experience noted it was "very kid friendly" even though they stayed in the quieter hilltop tent area away from the busier RV sections.
Craft activities: During pandemic restrictions, Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake adapted their programming by offering "craft kits for children to pick up and do at their own campsite in lieu of the usual program," according to a visitor who appreciated the campground's family accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV sites near Gates Mills, Ohio with more privacy, consider back-in options. At Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake, one RVer recommended: "We really liked the back-in sites with water and electric hookups because they were larger and more private and wooded."
Internal traffic: Most campgrounds enforce strict 5 mph speed limits, though some locations have issues with compliance. Several reviewers noted children on bikes at night can be hazardous, with one 2025 visitor to Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake writing: "These kids on bikes all night driving right in front of karts at 11 p.m. is out of control."
Seasonal considerations: While most campgrounds operate May through October, Punderson State Park remains open year-round with winterized facilities, though reviewers note site selection becomes even more important in off-season months for level terrain and accessibility.
