Top Tent Camping near Kelleys Island, OH

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Kelleys Island, look no further. Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Kelleys Island, including sites, reviews, and tips. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Kelleys Island, OH (7)


Recent Tent Reviews In Kelleys Island

352 Reviews of 7 Kelleys Island Campgrounds


  • Brian O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandusky-Bayshore KOA
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Sandusky-Bayshore KOA

    Great base camp for visiting Cedar Point

    The owners are very frank about what they have here. 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.
     We normally stay at State Parks, so didn't understand all the options they had, and ended up with a deluxe dual site which had more than we needed, but was a pleasant surprise.
    Our site was not in the tree shaded area, but instead included a Shelter with table, a patio with furniture and a fire pit, a grill and a free-stranding sink and electricity. the sites are close together, but our neighbors were friendly and comradery was the norm. 
     The showers are a bit cramped, but plenty of hot water.  There are TWO heated pools, which we didn't have time to use.  Plus there's  a big bouncy hill for the kids, something I've never seen before. A good General store and friendly staff.
    We spent all our time at Cedar Point, but here are things for the kids to do here, including a crafts barn.

  • Mano P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sterling State Park
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Sterling State Park

    Travel Trailers

    This park will accommodate any size travel trailer? Fifth wheel camper of any kind, the pull throughs are huge. The park is enormous with lots of fishing activities. Great water, the only downfall is there's no shade. Showers and restrooms are updated and always clean.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Rock Campground
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Crystal Rock Campground

    Lakeside - East Harbor State Park

    Super nice people- small sites- bathroom/ shower cleaned - a interesting area by Lakerside which is an 1800s art with very nice restaurants and shops most closed after Labor Day / do not take your rv /small roads - skip Sandusky

  • Wailym C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelleys Island State Park
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Kelleys Island State Park

    Simply amazing camping

    This state island campground is more than expected!  worth the ferry travel, a paradise kept secret.  We stumbled upon this island by accident along our travels after Labor Day and we totally fell in love.  The water front camping, swimming, boating, kayaking, historic sites, attractions and facilities are superb.  Everything you need and more than you expect.  We traveled in with our 34’ trailer.  The ferry cost was a bit high, around $200 round trip for us, truck and camper….but it was worth it!!  The campground is immaculate, quiet during the week especially after Labor Day, the weekend brings a larger crowd.  Walking trails, sites, boating and swimming all available from campground.  Sandy shallow beach with beautiful view.  Ice, firewood and a store conveniently located at campground.  The campground is small and sites a bit tight but spaced accordingly and comfortable.  Two waterfront cabins and two yurts available for rent as well.  We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and the island overall. The glacial grooves, limestone crusher, north loop trail, beach and boat launch all withing walking distance.  We rented bikes downtown to explore rest of island, including winery, cantina and local bars.  Counting the days to go back.

  • Gary G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sterling State Park
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Sterling State Park

    Nothing seems enforced here

    Stayed 5 days. Had a FHU site, of which there's a lot here. That all worked fine. Almost no trees here. None of the usual painted lines on the pavement to indicate your site boundaries, which sucks. You have to guess, and hope your neighbor doesn't spread out.

    Nothing seems enforced here, and I mean nothing. Rarely saw anyone patrolling the park, never saw any staff checking sites before the next camper came in. My site had dog droppings and cigarette butts in the firepit. Neighbors had FOUR vehicles on site, two more than the rules. Witnessed endless speeding and people going the wrong way on the roads. Without exaggerating, 80% of the cars were going too fast, 75% going the wrong way. No one seems to care or enforces anything. I think the supervisor here should be fired or retrained. I camp in 4 to 8 MI state parks per summer, this is the only one where it felt like no one cares.

    They need some "wrong way" signs and "speed limit 10" signs. (15 is too high, cause 15 means 20 to people, 10 means 15... ). Then they need to care.

    At least the bathrooms were clean.

    You can get TV from Detroit or Toledo, and T-Mobile service was ok.

    Groceries and many dining options not far off.

    We're 50/50 on staying here ever again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA

    Small basic campground near Toledo

    Our site was $59.95 a night.

    We were in Site# 504. We had Full hook- up with a gravel pull-through.
    We travel towing a 14 foot trailer and were able to fit both in our pull through site along with my jeep. The site was easy to level. We were charged $25 additional for my jeep since we were towing the trailer. We also were charged $10 because we arrived at 1:25 PM and check-in is at 2 PM. The park was close to empty so arriving early was not an inconvenience. We drove ourselves to our spot (no escort).

    Our site was shaded with lots of trees. This was a smaller lot with our neighbors fairly close.

    The lot comes with a concrete patio with picnic table and fire ring. They sell wood for $6 a bundle.

    There is free WiFi, although not strong. They offer Cable TV and there are many channels.

    There is not a community outdoor kitchen or community fire pit.

    They pickup your garbage at your site daily before noon.

    You are allowed to ride personal golf carts. They do not provide golf cart rentals. There is really not a need to have a Golf cart because it is a smaller campground.

    They do have a Swimming pool but it is currently closed due to maintenance (although it just looked closed- no signs of maintenance being done).

    There is a Playground. They also offer horseshoes, corn hole, giant jinga.

    They have a basic general store. There are not scheduled activities for kids.

    There is not a snack bar/restaurant on site.

    The streets are gravel so not great for riding bikes. This is an RV park with tent camping and cabins to rent.

    They have one shower house. The shower house has individual bathrooms with your own sink, shower, toilet. These are kept very clean.

    There is a laundry facility. It is a cash only facility, but they have a change machine. There are approximately 4 washers and 4 dryers. It is approximately $2.50 to wash and $2.50 to dry a load.

    They have a small fenced in dog park.

    There isn’t tons to doin the actual city of Perryville. But Toledo is a 20 minute drive.

  • Randall K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Ohio Turnpike RV Lot
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Blue Heron Ohio Turnpike RV Lot

    Perfect overnighter

    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. Free overnight stay allowed and for extra $20 you can get electricity (rows of hookups in the back of the parking lot). There was at least 10 other campers there. And no need to travel far to get back on the highway. Can’t be beat.

    Oh and Mario’s pizza in the plaza has an off the menu gluten free pizza and it was pretty tasty! I was happily surprised!

    FYI - you need cash to pay for the electric at a machine and then you get a ticket to display in the dash. The machine didn’t take cards.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview RV Park
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Riverview RV Park

    Friendly Campground

    Everyone at this campground is so friendly even the staff is great. The campground has season spots to daily and weekly spots along with yearly. Of course your stay length can determine your views. The campground has waterfront spots with tree coverage to no tree coverage to close up against one another spot where you can hear your neighbors. It’s the you get what you pay for. I have so far enjoyed my spot so far along with my neighbors. I have enjoyed the owner and managers despite other reviews on google. I would recommend and come back. My reasons for 4 stars is your are responsible for maintaining and cutting grass for your campground if you are seasonal to yearly, which is crazy since it’s not our grass and everywhere I have been before takes care of this. This campground does not have sewage and pumps you out twice a week if seasonal and yearly. If you need a pump out it 20$ for emergency situations.

  • dellimama_6@yahoo.com
    Camper-submitted photo from Claremar Twin Lakes Camping Resort
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Claremar Twin Lakes Camping Resort

    Clar Mar/ Twin Lakes

    After booking online, they changed my reservation site to a small spot no where near the bathrooms as I asked. She told me it was right across from the site. Not true. No fire pit in this spot and the site was so small, (my driveway is bigger). Not the picture that supposedly represented what I was paying for. We went home very disappointed. The kids were so excited to go camping and it wasn't worth paying for. We will NEVER reserve a spot at this campground again.

  • Kelsey S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sterling State Park
    Jun. 15, 2024

    Sterling State Park

    Great spot!

    Wonderful views from site 117. We booked the last spot of the night. It was an easy pull through with water, electric, and sewer hookup. You are right across from some good walking trails and walking distance to the beach. Lots of electric scooters, dogs, and bikes around.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from American Wilderness Campground
    May. 19, 2024

    American Wilderness Campground

    We love AWC

    Such a great place to camp. We had such an enjoyable trip. The campground was just incredible.

    We visited with our family and really made

    Some happy camping memories, which will always treasure. Our site was really pretty and we would visit again!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Maumee Bay State Park Campground
    May. 16, 2024

    Maumee Bay State Park Campground

    Clean Facilities / Great Location

    Sites are large, level, and grassy with vegetation barriers between sites with mowed buddy site access at back of each site. Shower houses are limited but modern and clean. Sunday morning’s line at the dump station can get very backed up!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Harbor State Park
    May. 16, 2024

    East Harbor State Park

    Very Cramped in Season

    Park on the lake and close to many amenities including Cedar Point Amusement Park. Sites are very tightly packed. Park was mostly empty while we were there early in season. We camped at East Harbor State Park in a Motorhome. Sites in our section were back in and would be difficult to back a trailer into a site with a full campground.

  • April J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandusky Milan RV Park
    May. 14, 2024

    Sandusky Milan RV Park

    Wonderfully Updated!

    This campground has been wonderfully updated! The owners have added in an additional playground, dog park, newly paved roadways, newly redone building, a new pavilion, fire pit, and boat parking! We love camping here every chance we get! It is convenient to the turnpike and Cedar Point is just a few miles away!

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Findley State Park
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Findley State Park

    Beautiful

    Absolutely love Findley. So much wildlife and great campsites. Amazing trails including bike trails for beginners up to advanced. We always have a great time.

  • Owen I.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandusky-Bayshore KOA
    Feb. 23, 2024

    Sandusky-Bayshore KOA

    Much Cheeper Then Light House Point (But still Perfect Service)

    Some of My Favorite Things About This Campground

    • The Cafe (Great Pancakes)
    • Great Staff And Owners (Friendly And Caring)
    • Perfect Beginner Campground (Helps You Back In)
    • Nice Pool (Large & Clean) 
    • Located In Sandusky (Perfect For Cedar Point)
    • Great ATT Cell Service!
  • Emily T.
    Camper-submitted photo from East Harbor State Park
    Sep. 22, 2023

    East Harbor State Park

    Has everything you need

    Very popular campground, lots of people. Easy drive-up spots, fire pits, clean showers, bathrooms, and a camp shop. Really nice bike/walking bath out to the water.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Findley State Park
    Sep. 13, 2023

    Findley State Park

    Quiet besides train

    When we pulled in, we seemed to be the only campers down the middle row. We backed in and had plenty of space at our site. Not secluded though and no privacy from neighbors if we had any. Location was convenient since we are traveling East and going to Cuyahoga NP in the morning. The campground seemed quiet until we were woken up several times by a nearby train. As a light sleeper this woke me up way too often. There was no fee to get into the park which was nice but there was a $6.50 fee for booking online.

  • Stephanie H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Findley State Park
    Sep. 3, 2023

    Findley State Park

    Not full hook up

    We only had a brief stay but it was a very nice park. The only downfall I saw is that it is not full hook up in most spots. It looked like there was a lot to do and it was a nice family place. Everyone was out and about.

  • Zachary W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sterling State Park
    Sep. 2, 2023

    Sterling State Park

    Lots of driving

    The campground was nice and the neighbors were quiet. The dump station is at the first buildings. So fill up before you head down to the campground.

  • Sarah A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Ridge Campgrounds
    Aug. 23, 2023

    Timber Ridge Campgrounds

    Beautiful! FYI cash only park

    Hit up the ATM prior to arriving, as this park is cash / check only. It’s gorgeous with super large sites. Plenty of space. You’re close to your neighbor but doesn’t feel like it. Quiet but also great for families. Looks like a lot of seasonal visitors. Staff couldn’t be nicer. 5 miles off 80-90 so super convenient for a quick one night stop for us.

  • Tom M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Rock Campground
    Aug. 3, 2023

    Crystal Rock Campground

    Nice camping experience.

    Nice campground, lots of sites, old style putt-putt but fun for kids. Well kept up and the staff were very nice to interact with. Close to some of the local attractions and sites. We plan to schedule future trips to Crystal Rock.

  • Jen S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Rock Campground
    Jul. 29, 2023

    Crystal Rock Campground

    Clean & cute

    This campground was family friendly, dog friendly, and very clean. About 30 minutes from cedar point. Our only complaint and the reason we’re docking a star is because our site was right next to a giant generator that seems to run 24/7 and sites seemed a little tight. Otherwise we enjoyed this campground very much.



Guide to Kelleys Island

Camping near Kelleys Island, Ohio, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the island: Kelleys Island is known for its stunning waterfront views and outdoor activities. One camper shared, “This state island campground is more than expected! Worth the ferry travel, a paradise kept secret” at Kelleys Island State Park Campground.
  • Visit local attractions: Check out the Marblehead Lighthouse and the glacial grooves. A visitor noted, “The campground is immaculate, quiet during the week especially after Labor Day,” highlighting the peaceful environment perfect for exploring.
  • Enjoy water activities: Kayaking and swimming are popular here. One review mentioned, “The sandy shallow beach with beautiful views” at Kelleys Island State Park Campground makes it a great spot for families.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Maumee Bay State Park Campground stated, “The bathrooms were always very clean,” which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. One camper at Kelleys Island State Park Campground mentioned, “The sites are the perfect size, with enough parking,” making it easy to set up.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like East Harbor State Park Campground are popular with families. A reviewer said, “Quiet hours were, however, quiet!” which is great for families with kids.

What you should know:

  • Busy during peak season: Campgrounds can get crowded. One camper at East Harbor State Park Campground noted, “Sites are very tightly packed,” especially in the summer.
  • Limited cell service: If you need to stay connected, be aware that some areas have poor reception. A visitor at Kelleys Island State Park Campground mentioned, “The entire campground is a dead zone,” which could be a concern for some.
  • Mayflies can be a nuisance: During certain times of the year, mayflies are abundant. One camper at Maumee Bay State Park Campground humorously noted, “There are sooooo many mayflies around,” so be prepared for that.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose a family-friendly campground: Look for places with amenities for kids. A review from Crystal Rock Campground mentioned, “Lots of family opportunities. Min golf, playground, even mining,” which can keep the little ones entertained.
  • Plan for activities: Bring bikes for exploring. One camper at Maumee Bay State Park Campground said, “Don’t forget your bikes for this campsite! There are miles of paved bike paths,” making it easy to get around.
  • Check for quiet hours: Make sure to respect quiet hours, especially if you have young children. A camper at East Harbor State Park Campground noted, “Quiet hours were, however, quiet!” which is a plus for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for big rig-friendly sites: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A review from Kelleys Island State Park Campground mentioned, “The campground is small and sites a bit tight but spaced accordingly and comfortable.”
  • Check for electric hookups: Ensure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Maumee Bay State Park Campground appreciated the “plenty of room for riding bikes around,” which is great for RVers who want to explore.
  • Be prepared for tight spaces: Some campgrounds have close sites. A review from Sandusky-Bayshore KOA stated, “The sites are a little close together,” so plan accordingly.

Camping near Kelleys Island, Ohio, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be ready for a mix of fun, relaxation, and a few surprises!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kelleys Island, OH?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kelleys Island, OH is Hanks Place Campground with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Kelleys Island, OH?

    TheDyrt.com has all 7 tent camping locations near Kelleys Island, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.