Oak Openings Preserve sits just west of Grand Rapids, Ohio, with unique sandy soil supporting rare oak savanna habitat. The region features an unusual mix of oak ridges, wet prairies, and sandy dunes within 15 miles of the Maumee River. Camping options vary from primitive tent sites with free firewood to fully developed RV parks with concrete pads.
What to do
Hiking trails: White Oak Campground provides access to the 15.5 mile Scout Trail that loops through Oak Openings. "I was able to park my car here in the morning, hop on the trail (which runs right through the campground), and return later in the day," notes one visitor. The park contains diverse ecosystems from pine forests to sand dunes.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing ponds or lake access. "Multiple fishing spots for young and old" are available at Arrowhead Lake RV Park & Campground, according to a camper who rated their stay highly. Some locations feature stocked ponds that require no additional fishing license.
Recreation facilities: Harbortown RV Resort provides numerous recreation options. "Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool, ext... If you have kids it is perfect!" shared one visitor. Many campgrounds maintain basketball courts, volleyball nets, and playground equipment for younger campers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathhouse cleanliness receives consistent praise across multiple campgrounds. At Harbor Town RV Resort, visitors appreciate the maintenance standards, with one noting it's "The best, cleanest, well maintained, under control campground we've ever been to." Regular bathroom cleaning makes extended stays more comfortable.
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds near Grand Rapids maintain peaceful environments during weekdays. "Relaxing and quiet. There are paths to ride your bike or just walk," reports a camper at Harbor Town RV Resort. Weekends tend to be busier at most rv campgrounds in Grand Rapids, Ohio area, especially during holiday periods.
Friendly staff: Personnel at Camp Lord Willing RV Park & Campground receive consistently positive reviews. "The employees are very friendly and helpful," notes one visitor. Staff assistance with site selection and local recommendations enhances the camping experience for first-time visitors.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Twin Acres Campground runs from May through mid-October, while others remain open year-round. "We spent 10 days here and enjoyed it. It was crowded on the weekends, but during the week it emptied out," reports one camper.
Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Bluegrass Campground, the proximity to roads can impact the camping experience. One visitor observed that "The campground is filled with mostly seasonal campers and the campsites are very close together," which contributes to ambient noise levels during peak periods.
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites require advance booking. "MUST RESERVE ONLINE BEFORE 4PM. There is no walk-up service, and online site goes down after employees go home at night," warns a visitor to White Oak Campground. Holiday weekends often fill months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When selecting a site with children, choose locations near play areas. At Van Buren State Park Campground, "the outside of the circle is your best bet and there's a few scattered in the middle. If you can get a good middle spot it's nice if you have kids since there's a playground, swings, basketball, and tether court."
Swimming options: Several parks maintain swimming areas during summer months. At Van Buren State Park Campground, families appreciate the recreational options. The park also features "a nice playground for kids and plenty of trails to hike or go horseback riding. They also had a dog park and small wildflower garden."
Budget-friendly amenities: White Oak Campground provides complimentary firewood, saving families on camping expenses. "The sites are inexpensive and come with free firewood, the restroom is cleaned regularly and maintained well, and it is relatively peaceful overall," shares a visitor, noting the value for family outings.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and layouts: RV parks vary significantly in site dimensions. One visitor to Ohio Turnpike RV Lot noted, "There are about 20 spots all for 40 feet total RV leaks. Requires an approval from staff at the travel center." Sites at most Grand Rapids, Ohio rv campgrounds accommodate standard-size rigs, but larger motorhomes may face limitations.
Hookup availability: Electric service ranges from 30-amp to 50-amp depending on location. At Bluegrass Campground, "The man who checked us in was extremely helpful and friendly. He led us to our campsite, helped my husband back in, and encouraged us to call for any problems." Water connections may require longer hoses at some parks.
Level sites: Many RVers note the importance of site leveling. At Arrowhead Lake RV Park & Campground, visitors appreciate that "Sites are large for the weekend campers. The seasonal ones all have back in and the weekends are pull through which is kinda nice." Concrete pads at select parks make stabilization easier for larger rigs.
