Camping spots near Hartville, Ohio primarily consist of traditional campgrounds within a 30-minute drive radius. The area sits at elevations ranging between 1,060-1,140 feet above sea level in northeastern Ohio's glaciated plateau region. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during the day, while spring and fall camping often sees 40-60°F temperature swings between day and night.
What to do
Kayaking at Nimisila Reservoir: The shallow water, lengthy shoreline, and scenic views make for a great paddle. "The lake was virtually algae free, and even during this pandemic, it didn't feel over crowded at any point," notes one visitor to Clay's Resort Jellystone Park.
Hiking at Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Located approximately 30 minutes from Hartville. "This area is filled magnificent trails that you wouldn't believe are so close to a highly populated city," shares a camper who visited Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The park offers multiple waterfall hikes and scenic trails.
Fishing in local reservoirs: Several campgrounds offer shore fishing access. "We have our own private little beach which our dog loves," explains one camper at Mill Creek Camping, noting the easy lake access for both swimming and fishing.
What campers like
Clean, spacious bathrooms: Many campgrounds maintain excellent facilities. At West Branch State Park Campground, campers appreciate that "bathrooms were clean separate showers verizon works well here." Another reviewer mentioned the "best bathrooms around! showers great."
Water recreation options: From swimming beaches to boat launches. "A very nice and clean campground with many access point to the the lake. Our camp site was in close proximity to the restroom facilities. We were fourtante that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked their during our stay," reports a camper at Mill Creek Camping.
Wooded sites for privacy: Pine-covered sites are particularly valued. "The sites on the outer rim of the loop (often, the even numbered sites) tend to be the better sites. The latter number sites - sites 28, 26, 24, 22, are nestled inside tall Lodge Pole Pines. You are sure to find a great canopy in the evening, and pine needles throughout your site," explains a visitor to Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park Campground.
What you should know
Campsite terrain varies significantly: Some sites require substantial leveling. At West Branch State Park Campground, one camper found: "We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches."
Water availability differs between parks: Some campgrounds lack running water. "Please do not make the mistake I did. There is no running water here. No showers, nothing to wash with or drink. You must bring in your water and bath when you get home," warns a camper at Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park Campground.
Limited camping in Cuyahoga Valley: Despite its popularity, camping options are restricted. "Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a unique experience. Know going in that there aren't a lot of camping options inside the park boundaries," notes a visitor, adding that the limited sites "aren't a bad spot to camp just don't expect to be too far into the woods or have much privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: Some locations offer extensive programming. "This place is AMAZING for families with kids! Tons of planned activities (about every hour) for everyone to enjoy. Huge pool, gem mine, mini golf, and homemade ice cream!" shares a camper at Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA.
Consider site location relative to amenities: Proximity to playgrounds and bathrooms matters. "If you're able to pick the right spots- you can keep an eye on the kids at the playground & riding bikes to/from the dock straight down the park road," recommends a visitor to Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park Campground.
Research water quality beforehand: Some campgrounds have issues. "The water smelled horrible, and both the shower head and faucet were caked with scum. My kids begged not to have to take a shower because of the smell," reports one unhappy camper at Clay's Resort Jellystone Park.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions and conditions: Some RV sites may be difficult to access. At Silver Springs Campground, a camper noted "The main problem was very hard to level and soft grass they don't have a well compacted area for your tt/rv."
Electric hookup availability varies: Not all parks offer the same amperage. "Only 3-30 amp hooks ups, the rest are 20 amp," reports a camper at Silver Springs Campground. For larger rigs, parks like West Branch State Park Campground offer 50-amp service at select sites.
Consider seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the area have restricted seasons. "We stayed overnight and arrived after a big storm passed through. Our grassy site had some muddy spots, but the site was big enough that we were able to avoid the mud," notes a Silver Springs Campground visitor, highlighting how weather can impact RV parking conditions throughout the variable Ohio seasons.
