A
Antoinette S.
Scout
ScoutEast Harbor State Park Campground
Beautiful quiet park
Although it was a full house it was pretty peaceful and quiet at night. The beaches and picnic areas down by the water are great! Saturdays are busy.
Camping near Kelleys Island, OH
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Kelleys Island State Park Campground anchors the camping experience in this Lake Erie destination, accessible only by ferry from Marblehead, Ohio. The island offers a unique camping environment with lakefront sites that provide stunning views and beach access. Nearby mainland options include East Harbor State Park Campground and several private facilities in Sandusky and Port Clinton, all within 30 minutes of the ferry docks. Accommodations range from tent-only areas with shade trees to full-hookup RV sites with 50-amp service. Several campgrounds feature cabin rentals for those seeking more shelter, while most established sites include standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms with showers.
Ferry transportation represents the primary logistical consideration for Kelleys Island campers, with round-trip costs averaging $60-100 for vehicles and passengers. As one camper noted, "You have to take a ferry to the campground. It's a few miles to the campground, so if you're renting and don't bring a vehicle, you'll want to rent a golf cart." Advance reservations are essential during the peak season of May through September, particularly for waterfront sites. The camping season generally runs April through October, with shoulder seasons offering quieter experiences. Weather conditions include cool lake breezes even in summer, with evenings requiring extra layers. Many campers recommend bicycles for island exploration, as the entire island spans just 5 miles across.
Lakefront sites consistently receive the highest praise from visitors, though they come with specific considerations. "If you have the chance to stay on a lake front site, do it here! The sites are the perfect size," reports one regular visitor. The rocky shoreline can present challenges for tent campers, with one noting, "Some sites you might have to hunt for soft ground to stake your tent." Families appreciate the recreational opportunities, including kayak rentals, hiking trails, and the notable glacial grooves geological feature. The island's small downtown area offers restaurants, shops, and a winery within biking distance. Visitors seeking a quieter experience often recommend weekday stays, as South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay) tends to attract more nightlife-oriented crowds than the relatively tranquil Kelleys Island.
Best Campgrounds near Kelleys Island (86)
1. East Harbor State Park Campground
"I love the ability to walk or bike to the beach. The camp store has all the necessities you may have forgotten. I enjoy walking to the pond at night and flashlight frogs."
"A great campground in Ohio. So clean and so many things to do. Campsites are close together but they do honor quiet hours. Great trail around the lake and a fun and challenging disc golf course."
from $31 - $90 / night
Check Availability2. Kelleys Island State Park Campground
"Kelleys Island State Park is a small, family friendly campground with a beautiful beach. There are kayak rentals available, many nature trails, and fun things to do in the town as well."
"Kelley’s island is absolutely beautiful. The site is clean and quiet and has lots of space. My only complaint is the water near us was not working at the primitive sites."
from $31 - $120 / night
Check Availability3. South Bass Island State Park Campground
"Beautiful place, well kept, lots of sites overlooking the lake and a lot of shade. The island is pretty well known as a party island so we generally only camp here off-season now."
"Great location with many shoreline sites facing west with some of the best sunsets to be seen. Easy access for canoeists and kayakers, gentle shoreline, office is just a short walk away."
from $35 - $660 / night
Check Availability4. Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point
"Great location! Situated adjacent to Iron Vengeance roller coaster and across the parking lot from the water park. You can see the coasters and hear the screams from your rig!"
"Not really camping but staying in your camper next to an amazing amusement park."
from $150 - $500 / night
Check Availability5. Sandusky-Bayshore KOA
"Nice site in Northern Ohio!"
"This isn't a place to get away from it all. It's behind a car dealership and next to a fairly busy railroad. But they do offer amenities to make your stay easier."
6. Crystal Rock Campground - Sandusky, OH
"We did stay in a Travel Trailer next to seasonal campers and they were very kind and helpful. The lot size was ok...not spacious but not as small as I've experienced."
"Everyone in the office is so polite and courteous, the grounds, office, bathrooms, and showers are spotless, tons of amenities and close to the highway but far enough away for a little hideaway of awesomeness"
from $32 - $1 / night
Check Availability7. Cedarlane RV Resort
"Due to covid our family decided to go to Lake Erie instead of the ocean this year. this was our first trip up. While looking for places to stay we came across cedarlane and were so glad we did."
"This place is big and plenty of different things to do perfect location"
8. Camp Sandusky
"Positives: Clean
- Very close to Cedar Point Park
- Friendly staff
- All you can eat pancake breakfast ($5)
- Water and electrical access
- Easy highway access
- Roads well kept
Negatives:
- One of"
"We rented two sites next to each other and when we pulled up the one we were assigned was being used by someone else."
from $23 - $105 / night
Check Availability9. Tall Timbers Campground
from $55 / night
Check Availability10. Fort Firelands RV Park
"This is a quiet campground near Lake Erie. The campground seems like it’s mainly seasonal but they did have some transient camping and tent sites. We stayed at site 156."
"We were on the end (which is always a plus for us), and were able to see Lake Erie! Very Quiet, but not much really goes on when it is raining."
Drive Time
- 40 min from Sandusky, OH
- 1 hr 16 min from Toledo, OH
- 1 hr 26 min from Cleveland, OH
- 1 hr 27 min from Monroe, MI
Recent Camping Photos near Kelleys Island, OH
140 Photos of 86 Kelleys Island Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Kelleys Island State Park Campground
East Harbor State Park CampgroundM
Cedarlane RV Resort
South Bass Island State Park Campground
Bayfront ResortJ
Cold Creek Trout Camp
Sandusky-Bayshore KOA
Camp Sandusky
Crystal Rock Campground - Sandusky, OH
Gladhaven Campground and Marina
Milan Travel Park
Sandusky Milan RV Park
Recent Reviews near Kelleys Island, OH
451 Reviews of 86 Kelleys Island Campgrounds
Nan N.
GuideEast Harbor State Park Campground
Clean, adequate state park
We came when there had been a lot of rain, the original site we had reserved had a lot of standing water and mud and a big drop off the paved area, so we asked if we could switch. For a $6 change fee we were able to move. They do have some full hookup sites, but those are hard to come by. It is a huge campgeound and the sites are all very close to one another. The bathrooms were clean, I didn't use the showers, but they looked clean. They had a small, simple laundry facility that worked as needed. The hiking in the park wasn't too exciting. There is a disk golf course wr checked out, but it was pretty rainy off and on during our stay so we didn't play. Biking within the Park was good, with some well laid out paths. Overall nothing too exciting, but very adequate for what we needed to explore a little of what Lake Erie has to offer.
Hope V.ScoutCamp Sandusky
Bed bug infested! Poorly managed. This place has gone down hill!
We had to leave in the middle of the night due to a bed bug infestation. We let staff know we were putting our belongings out side and would come back in the morning. When we came back in the morning the owner would not issue a refund and instead insulted us. The whole situation was so unbelievably weird. I wish I would've read through all the reviews before booking. This seems to be an ongoing issue with them and the owner couldnt be less bothered. People like him are the reason Ohio bed bug issue will remain a problem! What we thought was going to be relaxed getaway turned out to be a very expensive nightmare. The craziest part of it all is this happend Friday evening/ Saturday morning and as of Monday he is already trying to rent that same cabin out to another family on camping sites. Don't go to Camp Sandusky. Its not worth it. I hope this helps someone!
Michael M.GuideSterling State Park Campground
Nice stop
Sterling State Park, Quick Two-Night Stay
We stopped at Sterling State Park for two nights and had a really nice stay. We were on an electric-only site, but the view and the short walk to the beach were awesome.
If you can score one of the sites along the edge of the campground that overlooks the beach, or one that backs up to the woods, I’d definitely recommend it. Those sites have a much better setting. Most of the other sites are more out in the open, with very little shade and not much of a view.
The central part of the campground feels busy and crowded, but surprisingly, most of the sites are actually spaced out pretty well. We didn’t use the bathhouse, so we can’t comment on its cleanliness or condition.
The campground itself was neatly mowed, and the staff seemed to do a good job keeping up with the grounds and general maintenance. We didn’t notice much trash or anything else that would be a negative.
The beach right in front of the campground was probably our favorite part. It was clean, spacious, and never seemed particularly busy while we were there.
Overall, Sterling State Park was a great stop for a couple of nights. If you can get one of the better-located sites, especially along the beach or woods, it makes the stay even better.
Brittnee C.ScoutGotta Getaway RV Park
NOT A FAMILY CAMPGROUND
Not a safe environment for children. The little man at the desk is ok with it too, he claims he kicked us all out but my video I took when confronting him on the situation differs. He also keeps deleting reviews and replying back with blatant lies. If you read through the negative reviews you can see he can’t admit when he’s wrong, it’s always everyone else who’s wrong. I don’t want money back from this joke of a campground and I don’t care what the owner has to say. What I want is to save everyone else from wasting a perfectly good camping trip on a trashy place. It was so bad we DECIDED on our own to leave and camp elsewhere. Aside from the sketchy seasonal campers, the amenities also are trash. The pond is all muck, sites are water and electric only with dirt pads. I have never seen such a hillbilly set up. The pool is ok. Dump station was probably my favorite amenity, dumping our tanks to leave that place! But even that is set up at the entrance so when dumping you can block the incoming campers. I will never be back to this place, let me verify with the video I took, WE WERE NOT KICKED OUT. We left on our own because our CHILDREN DID NOT FEEL SAFE!
- Brittnee C.Scout
Gotta Getaway RV Park
NOT A FAMILY CAMPGROUND
Not a safe environment for children. The little man at the desk is ok with it too, he claims he kicked us all out but my video I took when confronting him on the situation differs. He also keeps deleting reviews and replying back with blatant lies. If you read through the negative reviews you can see he can’t admit when he’s wrong, it’s always everyone else who’s wrong. I don’t want money back from this joke of a campground and I don’t care what the owner has to say. What I want is to save everyone else from wasting a perfectly good camping trip on a trashy place. It was so bad we DECIDED on our own to leave and camp elsewhere. Aside from the sketchy seasonal campers, the amenities also are trash. The pond is all muck, sites are water and electric only with dirt pads. I have never seen such a hillbilly set up. The pool is ok. Dump station was probably my favorite amenity, dumping our tanks to leave that place! But even that is set up at the entrance so when dumping you can block the incoming campers. I will never be back to this place, let me verify with the video I took, WE WERE NOT KICKED OUT. We left on our own because our CHILDREN DID NOT FEEL SAFE!
- TTim G.Scout
South Bass Island State Park Campground
Well run state park
Some sites have full hookup. Some have just electric. Some are for tents only. Several bath houses that are dated but surprisingly clean. There are not trash receptacles everywhere but rather one area with several dumpsters. Sites are blacktop paved with various degrees of levelness. The whole campground is shaded so can get muddy after rain and smokey from campfires. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Park staff are helpful and camp hosts do a great job. All in all a good for a state park.
BK N.
TravelerEast Harbor State Park Campground
Great spot for a quick stop
Stopped off for the night en route to the UP of Michigan. As other user mention the sites on the D loop are great for a small van. Kind of a busy campground but fairly quiet midweek. Went for a walk at sunset and saw a bunch of deer and rabbits. Would definitely return if I'm in the area again.
- WWilliam M.Traveler
White Star Park Campground
Nice kinda noisy
Great place open during the week can be full on weekends. Near a road though so a bit of noise from cars. Bathrooms and showers are nice and clean.
Guide to Kelleys Island
Camping sites near Kelleys Island, Ohio extend beyond the main state park, with options on both the island itself and nearby mainland locations. The Lake Erie Islands receive approximately 34 inches of annual precipitation with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Water levels can fluctuate throughout the camping season, affecting shoreline access at some waterfront campsites.
What to do
Explore glacial formations: Kelleys Island features remarkable geological sites including the Glacial Grooves, some of the largest and most accessible glacial striations in the world. "The island has space to launch kayaks, a boat dock, plenty of hiking, bring your bike to see the whole thing via peddle power. There is a brewery and winery," notes a visitor at Kelleys Island State Park Campground.
Visit nearby lighthouses: The Marblehead Lighthouse stands approximately 15 minutes from mainland ferry docks and offers historical tours. "The Marblehead lighthouse is also beautiful for photos," shares a camper who stayed at Cedarlane RV Resort, making it an excellent day trip from any island accommodation.
Enjoy water activities: Lake Erie offers fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities within walking distance of most campgrounds. A visitor at East Harbor State Park Campground explains, "I enjoy walking or bike to the beach. I enjoy walking to the pond at night and flashlight frogs. It is a great place for birding, fishing, boating."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer premium spots directly on the lake with unobstructed water views. "If you have the chance to stay on a lake front site, do it here," mentions a regular visitor to Kelleys Island State Park Campground. At South Bass Island State Park Campground, "About twenty of the tent spots overlook the cliffs with great views of the water. Sites 97 and 114 sit on the edge of the cliff."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower houses and restrooms are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. A camper at Crystal Rock Campground notes, "The grounds, office, bathrooms, and showers are spotless, tons of amenities and close to the highway but far enough away for a little hideaway of awesomeness."
Wildlife viewing: The island ecosystem supports diverse bird populations and other wildlife. "Typically there are a lot of raccoons so keep your food locked up tight. It is a great place for birding," mentions a visitor to East Harbor State Park. Another notes the "wild life in the area was abundant making hikes in the afternoon great especially near sunset when the deer in the area started to come out."
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Round-trip ferry costs can significantly impact your budget. The Miller Ferry offers free mainland parking if you leave your vehicle behind. "If you do take your vehicle over note that the wait time to bring it back on a Sunday while usually 2 to 3 hours can also be up to 6 hours from when you get in line," warns a camper from South Bass Island.
Island transportation: Getting around the islands requires planning. A visitor explains, "It is a few miles to camp ground so if you are renting and don't bring a vehicle you will want to rent a golf cart. You can bring a car to the island." Bicycle rentals are also widely available, with the entire island navigable in under an hour.
Seasonal considerations: For a quieter experience, consider timing. "We generally only camp here off-season now. The island is pretty rowdy during the summer so plan accordingly," advises a camper at South Bass Island State Park Campground. The camping season typically runs April through October, with shoulder seasons offering reduced crowds.
Tips for camping with families
Choose the right island: For family-friendly environments, Kelleys Island offers a more relaxed atmosphere than South Bass Island. "Kelly's Island is quieter and has a nice natural sand beach, so better for weekend trips if going with a family," suggests a South Bass Island visitor.
Look for kid-specific amenities: Some mainland campgrounds offer extensive child-oriented activities. At Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point, "Walk right into the park or swim park! Literally the best way to stay at Cedar Point!" Another camper mentions, "Shuttle service to the gates (although it is walkable too) pool area, beach, paved sites."
Pack for variable weather: Lake Erie creates its own microclimate with sudden temperature changes. "Cool lake breezes even in summer, with evenings requiring extra layers," notes one experienced camper. Plan extra clothing for unexpected weather shifts common to the island environment.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Level sites with adequate hookups can be limited, so book early. A camper at East Harbor State Park advises, "The key is site selection at East Harbor...we happened to be in section C which was a newer section of the park. Section C was nice, though in hot sunny days there is very little shade to protect you."
Utility considerations: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "The electric is 50 amp. They have connectors you can use for a $25 deposit and then get your money back when you return the cord," explains a visitor to Fort Firelands RV Park. Some parks offer limited sewer connections while others have dump stations only.
Arrive with full tanks: While most campgrounds offer water hookups, water pressure can vary, especially during peak season. Fresh water access points may be limited, and water quality might contain minerals from the lake. Several RVers recommend arriving with full freshwater tanks as a precaution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find and reserve cabins on Kelleys Island?
How can I find and reserve cabins on Kelleys Island?
While Kelleys Island State Park Campground does not have cabins, you can find alternative accommodations at nearby mainland locations. For a similar island experience with cabins, consider South Bass Island State Park Campground, which offers well-kept facilities with lake-view sites. To reach Kelleys Island, you must take the Kelleys Island Ferry from Marblehead, which costs approximately $100 round-trip for three adults and a vehicle. Most visitors rent golf carts for transportation once on the island, as the campground is a few miles from downtown.
What do visitor reviews say about Kelleys Island State Park?
What do visitor reviews say about Kelleys Island State Park?
Visitors consistently praise Kelleys Island State Park Campground for its beautiful lake views and well-maintained grounds. Reviewers particularly highlight the waterfront sites as must-book locations, offering stunning Lake Erie vistas. The family-friendly atmosphere receives high marks, with many noting it's perfect for children to enjoy outdoor activities. Campers appreciate the clean facilities though some mention limited bathroom stalls. The campground's proximity to island attractions like the glacial grooves is considered a plus, and the peaceful environment away from downtown provides a relaxing experience. Some long-time visitors have noted recent changes to the campground, with mixed feelings about the updates.
What amenities are available at Kelleys Island State Park campground?
What amenities are available at Kelleys Island State Park campground?
Kelleys Island State Park Campground offers clean, well-maintained facilities including restrooms, a beautiful beach area, and kayak rentals. The campground features waterfront sites with Lake Erie views, an extended parking lot near the Ranger station, and access to nature trails. The family-friendly atmosphere includes bike-friendly paths where bikes, scooters, and skateboards are welcome. While the bathrooms have limited toilet stalls, the campground is kept clean with plenty of amenities for an enjoyable stay.
How can I find and reserve cabins on Kelleys Island?
How can I find and reserve cabins on Kelleys Island?
While Kelleys Island State Park Campground does not have cabins, you can find alternative accommodations at nearby mainland locations. For a similar island experience with cabins, consider South Bass Island State Park Campground, which offers well-kept facilities with lake-view sites. To reach Kelleys Island, you must take the Kelleys Island Ferry from Marblehead, which costs approximately $100 round-trip for three adults and a vehicle. Most visitors rent golf carts for transportation once on the island, as the campground is a few miles from downtown.
Where can I find a detailed map of Kelleys Island campground?
Where can I find a detailed map of Kelleys Island campground?
Detailed maps of Kelleys Island campground are available at the Ranger station upon arrival. For advance planning, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website, which provides official campground maps showing all sites, facilities, and trails. If you're looking for additional outdoor information in the Lake Erie region, East Harbor State Park Campground and Findley State Park Campground also offer detailed maps that can help you understand the typical layout of Ohio state parks. Remember that Kelleys Island is accessible only by ferry, so include transportation details in your planning.
What do visitor reviews say about Kelleys Island State Park?
What do visitor reviews say about Kelleys Island State Park?
Visitors consistently praise Kelleys Island State Park Campground for its beautiful lake views and well-maintained grounds. Reviewers particularly highlight the waterfront sites as must-book locations, offering stunning Lake Erie vistas. The family-friendly atmosphere receives high marks, with many noting it's perfect for children to enjoy outdoor activities. Campers appreciate the clean facilities though some mention limited bathroom stalls. The campground's proximity to island attractions like the glacial grooves is considered a plus, and the peaceful environment away from downtown provides a relaxing experience. Some long-time visitors have noted recent changes to the campground, with mixed feelings about the updates.
What amenities are available at Kelleys Island State Park campground?
What amenities are available at Kelleys Island State Park campground?
Kelleys Island State Park Campground offers clean, well-maintained facilities including restrooms, a beautiful beach area, and kayak rentals. The campground features waterfront sites with Lake Erie views, an extended parking lot near the Ranger station, and access to nature trails. The family-friendly atmosphere includes bike-friendly paths where bikes, scooters, and skateboards are welcome. While the bathrooms have limited toilet stalls, the campground is kept clean with plenty of amenities for an enjoyable stay.
What do visitor reviews say about Kelleys Island State Park?
What do visitor reviews say about Kelleys Island State Park?
Visitors consistently praise Kelleys Island State Park Campground for its beautiful lake views and well-maintained grounds. Reviewers particularly highlight the waterfront sites as must-book locations, offering stunning Lake Erie vistas. The family-friendly atmosphere receives high marks, with many noting it's perfect for children to enjoy outdoor activities. Campers appreciate the clean facilities though some mention limited bathroom stalls. The campground's proximity to island attractions like the glacial grooves is considered a plus, and the peaceful environment away from downtown provides a relaxing experience. Some long-time visitors have noted recent changes to the campground, with mixed feelings about the updates.
Where can I find a detailed map of Kelleys Island campground?
Where can I find a detailed map of Kelleys Island campground?
Detailed maps of Kelleys Island campground are available at the Ranger station upon arrival. For advance planning, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website, which provides official campground maps showing all sites, facilities, and trails. If you're looking for additional outdoor information in the Lake Erie region, East Harbor State Park Campground and Findley State Park Campground also offer detailed maps that can help you understand the typical layout of Ohio state parks. Remember that Kelleys Island is accessible only by ferry, so include transportation details in your planning.
How can I find and reserve cabins on Kelleys Island?
How can I find and reserve cabins on Kelleys Island?
While Kelleys Island State Park Campground does not have cabins, you can find alternative accommodations at nearby mainland locations. For a similar island experience with cabins, consider South Bass Island State Park Campground, which offers well-kept facilities with lake-view sites. To reach Kelleys Island, you must take the Kelleys Island Ferry from Marblehead, which costs approximately $100 round-trip for three adults and a vehicle. Most visitors rent golf carts for transportation once on the island, as the campground is a few miles from downtown.
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