The Harbor View, Ohio region includes several rv campgrounds between Lake Erie and the Detroit River, with most facilities operating seasonally from April through October. The area experiences heavy tourism during summer months, with campsites often filling completely on weekends. Many campgrounds offer boat access to Lake Erie with water depths averaging 4-6 feet near shore.
What to do
Beach activities: 15-minute drive from Harbortown RV Resort to Lake Erie shores with swimming areas. "This campground has everything! Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool, ext... Just a one night stay to visit A friend. If you have kids it is perfect!" according to Noel L.
Trail exploration: accessible year-round at Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA where a walking path circles the central lake. "Pretty views of the lake from the lake sites. We have camped here for years. Love the trail around the lake. You have a up north feel in the middle of Ypsilanti," notes Debra B.
Wildlife viewing: morning hours best for spotting native birds at Blue Heron Ohio Turnpike RV Lot. "If you are a fan of nature are you a birder or just love the Blue Heron then this over night rest area is for you... don't be surprised if you see deer and other wildlife as well it truly is a nice peaceful place," reports Matt Y.
Miniature golf: $5-8 per person at Cedarlane RV Resort with additional activities nearby. "We visited east harbor state park while there and the beach was weird, there's a rock wall bordering the lake so you have to either climb down the low wall or walk to the designated opening," shares Ashley R.
What campers like
Clean facilities: regularly maintained at Camp Perry Lodging and RV Park with paved sites and organized layout. "RV site is paved with electric hookup and water hook up on site. Waste dump on RV site as well. Very clean and maintained," writes Tim W.
Family-friendly amenities: structured activities available during peak season. "We enjoyed the Halloween weekends. We decorate big and enjoyed other decorations as well!" mentions Beth G. about Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA.
Quiet atmosphere: weekdays recommended for those seeking solitude at Camp Lord Willing RV Park. "Stayed at Camp Lord Willing in June 2021 and it was a peaceful friendly environment with seasonal and experienced campers," reports Korinne K.
Convenient location: easy access to major highways and nearby attractions. "We stayed at this resort when we were not able to get in to the Sandusky KOA. I am so glad that we did. It was amazing," according to Toni Marie C. about Cedarlane RV Resort.
What you should know
Site conditions vary: drainage issues occur at some campgrounds after rainfall. "When it rains several campsites get very wet! There are a lot of trees so some of lots have no grass. Not paved so a lot of pot holes," warns Debra B. about Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA.
Noise considerations: highway proximity affects several rv campgrounds in Harbor View vicinity. "Another big issue is how close it is to the expressway which is noisy and there are trains that go by during the night. There must be a few crossings near by because they blew the horn for 5+ minutes at 4:30am," notes Trent T.
Reservation requirements: deposit needed at most locations, with 1-2 night minimum stays common during summer. "We stayed for 2 weeks in October. Halloween weekends this place is packed - but empties out Sunday Afternoons," explains Gordon D.
Cash payment policies: some locations only accept cash or check for certain services. "They accept connectors you can use for a $25 deposit and then get your money back when you return the cord. They accept check and cash, no credit cards," points out Renee L. about Fort Firelands RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: swimming areas at Blue Heron Ohio Turnpike RV Lot offer safe places for children. "Simplicity at its finest. Highway stop is open 24 hrs so you have food and bathrooms all night. Everything is bright, nice and clean and feels very safe," says Randall K.
Playground access: multiple options for different age groups at Harbortown RV Resort. "Nice campground- clean with many pull through sites. Nice size pool with enough lounge chairs. Sites feel a bit small but still very nice. Right next to camping is go karts, putt putt and arcade. We had a blast!" shares Beth G.
Splash pad facilities: open May-September at Cedarlane RV Resort with shallow water features. "Has lots of stuff for kids to do. Pools are small and can be a little crowded during the summer on weekends. They have a great splash pad and wading pool for kids," explains Jeffrey C.
Organized activities: weekend events scheduled throughout summer months. "Went mothers day weekend and had a great time. Mother's day activities were great and were free! Next door to putt putt go karts batting cages and arcade - this was pricey but fun," notes Kourtney D.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: bring blocks as some sites have uneven surfaces. "The sites are level but some lack grass making the patio pretty dusty or muddy," observes a reviewer about Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park.
Electric converter needs: 50-amp service predominates at many campgrounds. "They only had 50w outlets, but will lend you a converter for $15.00, which is refundable upon leaving," suggests Lisa K. about Fort Firelands RV Park.
Site selection strategy: drive through first if possible before committing to a specific site. "I would suggest to come in the park and drive through and pick a spot that you like before making reservations," advises Debra B.
Pet policies: designated areas available at Sandusky Milan RV Park. "This campground has been wonderfully updated! The owners have added in an additional playground, dog park, newly paved roadways, newly redone building," reports April J.