Campgrounds near Independence, Ohio provide diverse overnight options across northeast Ohio's glaciated plateau region, located about 800 feet above sea level. Winter weather restricts most camping to May through October, though a few campgrounds remain open year-round. Sites range from lakeside spots with water recreation to woodland settings within an hour's drive of Independence.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kool Lakes Family RV Park has a dedicated fishing lake where campers catch numerous species. "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," reports one visitor who stayed at site A24.
Mini-golf and recreation: Family-friendly activities abound at Countryside Campground, which features a small putt-putt course and playground. "The small putt-putt course was still open for kids to play. Playground was a hit for our 8yr and under kids," notes a camper who visited with three children and two dogs.
Lake activities: Multiple campgrounds feature lake access with swimming and boating options. "Kenisee Lake RV Resort Thousand Trails in Jefferson, Ohio is a very large and has a park-like setting with 2 lakes. There is fishing on the lakes and the campground has rowboats available to use," according to a recent visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently praise the maintenance of bathrooms and common areas. At Evergreen Park RV Resort, campers appreciate "very clean and nice campground," with another noting "The bathrooms and showers are spotless and very private."
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds organize activities throughout the camping season. "We have been a seasonal camper at Kennisee for 5 years. It's a great place with a lot of events and entertainment for families. Multiple fishing ponds, Friday night bingo, bands, fishing tournament for kids, duck race, Christmas in July and many other activities," reports one long-term visitor.
Proximity to attractions: Campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional destinations. "Located within a matter of minutes to several wineries in the area," notes a camper who stayed at Kenisee's Grand River Campground for a girls' weekend getaway.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. "The only downside is the internet which is lacking in this area," mentions one camper about Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake.
Site spacing concerns: Site dimensions and privacy levels differ between campgrounds. "I only negative for me was the campsites are very close to each other," notes a visitor to Evergreen Park RV Resort, while another camper mentioned about Countryside Campground: "lots are pretty tight in that area. Advice - get there early or you'll have many vehicles and campers to watch for as you back in!"
Turnpike overnight options: For travelers passing through, Vermilion Valley Ohio Turnpike RV Lot offers convenient overnight rv sites near Independence, Ohio. "Clean, Cheap and Safe place to stop for the night. Pulled in to the RV parking area around 9:45 pm, there was one other vehicle there. 3 more came and parked before midnight. Felt completely safe and not crowded by the campers on either side."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campsites near recreational facilities for easier monitoring. "The playground was a hit for our 8yr and under kids," notes a Countryside Campground visitor traveling with young children.
Seasonal activities: Plan visits during themed weekends for additional entertainment. "Staff had crafts and pumpkin decorating for kids also and were helpful and friendly," reports a Countryside camper who visited during Halloween weekend.
Water recreation options: Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake offers family-friendly water activities. "We enjoyed their beautiful put-put course and ice cream stand," writes a visitor, while another notes it's "close to the beach! It close to many activities in Geneva on the lake, the strip!"
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: RV travelers passing through the area appreciate the turnpike service plazas for quick stays. "Best $20 nights sleep I ever got," reports an RVer who used Vermilion Valley Ohio Turnpike RV Lot, adding "Dump station as you exit. Gas and convenience items are extra helpful."
Site selection: When booking rv campsites near Independence, Ohio, consider the specific campground layout. "We really liked the back-in sites with water and electric hookups because they were larger and more private and wooded," notes a camper at Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake.
Seasonal timing: Most campgrounds serving RVs near Independence operate seasonally. "We camped here the second weekend in December and had the park mostly to ourselves. There were only 3 other campers there," reports a winter visitor to Evergreen Park RV Resort, one of the few year-round rv camping options near Independence, Ohio.
