Cabin camping near Kelleys Island, Ohio offers year-round waterfront accommodations with varied access considerations. Sites are positioned on the Lake Erie shoreline with specific ferry requirements for island destinations. Most Lake Erie cabin rentals require advance planning due to limited availability, especially during summer weekends when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Birding trails and wildlife viewing: East Harbor State Park Campground features extensive bird watching opportunities with several designated trails. "I enjoy this campground because there are lots of great spots to choose from... It is a great place for birding, fishing, boating and close to marblehead lighthouse and the ferries to take you to Kelley's Island and Put In Bay," notes Jaclyn B.
Beach activities with rentals: Kelleys Island State Park Campground provides water-based activities with equipment available on-site. "The campground has a little bay which works out great for having a small boat, jet-ski, and also a small swimming area," shares Rebecca F. Rental options include kayaks and other watercraft directly at the campground.
Explore glacial formations: The island features unique geological formations worth visiting. "Amazing small town feel with cute shops, family activities, world's largest glacier groves, shallow beach and fun history," writes Daniel U. The glacial grooves are accessible via short trails from the camping areas.
Ferry island-hopping: South Bass Island State Park Campground serves as a gateway to multiple island destinations. "The town is definitely a 'party' location on the weekends during the summer months, and there is a very pretty and active harbor there, usually with 100 to 200 boats including some in the 40 to 50 foot range in the harbor on the weekends," explains Stephen S.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Waterfront cabin sites provide direct lake views and access. "Camp was well kept, clean, and helpful staff. Our campsite was easy to find and backed in with no problems. Our site was pretty open because it was one on the end in the back of the campgrounds. It was really nice to have a path through the woods and out to the beach," shares Rebecca F. at Kelleys Island.
Well-maintained facilities: East Harbor State Park Campground receives praise for its upkeep and amenities. "The benefit of C is that there is a very nice newer shower house by the pull through lots, the facility is hard to beat in a state park!" notes Mark S. Most cabin rentals include access to these improved facilities.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting outside peak summer months provides a different experience. "We generally only camp here off-season now. There is a lot to see and explore like the caves, the monument in the world famous bars. The entire island is pretty rowdy during the summer," advises Daniel U. regarding South Bass Island.
Concrete pads for stability: Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point offers solidly constructed sites for cabin and RV camping. "Nice RV sites. Can accommodate big rigs. Beautiful landscaping. Right on Sandusky bay," observes Dean N. The stability of concrete pads makes cabin setup easier in all weather conditions.
What you should know
Transportation requirements: Island cabins require ferry transport with specific timing constraints. "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 (beware the Miller ferry stops running about 8pm, ie: near sunset)," cautions Stephen S. about South Bass Island.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly on the islands. "Cell service is best downtown, I noticed my phone telling me I was in Canada while at the campgrounds but I was never charged an international fee," explains Rebecca F. about Kelleys Island. At some locations, phones may register on Canadian networks.
Environmental conditions: Crystal Rock Campground and other lakeside locations experience specific seasonal challenges. "Bugs were persistent but the smoke from the fire seemed to keep them at bay," notes Wendi R. Bug spray is essential equipment, particularly in May through August.
Booking window strategy: Cabins require advance planning with specific timing windows. "Reservations can be made exactly 6 months in advance and only a few sites are kept open for walk ins anymore," advises Stephen S. regarding South Bass Island accommodations. Some premium waterfront cabins book up to a year in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and splash pad access: Cedarlane RV Resort provides dedicated children's water features. "My daughter had fun doing the gem mining and playing in the pool and splash pad. They have an adults only pool as well for those looking for a break from all the kids," shares Ashley R. These facilities operate May through September.
Kid-friendly lakefront areas: Beach areas with gradual entry points work well for younger children. "East harbor state park 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 in the wall but once in the water it felt like walking on play doh and the water was pretty shallow definitely a great area for kids especially smaller kids," explains Ashley R.
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated play structures. "The park has a small bay which is actually a nice swimming area if you aren't looking for sand under your feet or blanket. That beach area is a great area though to launch a kayak or sailboard to use in the cove," describes Stephen S. about South Bass Island State Park.
Safety considerations: Cliffside cabin and tent sites require careful selection for families. "The sites along the cliff overlooking the lake have fabulous views but are ONLY for tents and one should NOT camp there with small kids," warns Stephen S. about South Bass Island State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Even at improved sites, some preparation is needed. "The flattest RV sites with fair to good locations are Sites 57 and 44 (although even these will require a little leveling)," advises T S. regarding South Bass Island. This applies to cabin and RV sites alike.
Hookup accessibility: Maumee Bay State Park Campground offers various utility options. "All sites are very generous in size and appear to be spaced with a decent amount of space apart with foliage providing varying levels of privacy. Some have beautiful trees that in peak fall color would be stunning. All camper pads are paved and long enough to accommodate large RVs," explains Lee D.
Weather protection needs: The lakefront location creates specific challenges. "It stormed while I was there and the winds got strong, so make sure your tent is sturdy, or choose an in-land campsite," recommends Theresa P. about South Bass Island. Cabin rentals provide better protection against Lake Erie's frequent weather changes.
Traffic flow and site access: Campground layouts affect arrival and departure ease. "Roads are set up with a circle at the end. Drive down them loop around then drive out. Angled driveways, easy to get trailer in. Or back in A and C class easy in and out too," explains Marla S. about Maumee Bay State Park.
