5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Punderson State Park Campground permits pets on all camping sites, with shaded areas offering natural privacy for dogs and owners. Several tent and RV sites sit on wooded inclines, providing separation from neighboring campers when walking dogs. Primitive tent sites require hikers to carry equipment uphill, but offer more seclusion for reactive pets than the main campground areas. The West Woods camping area features two small, walk-in tent sites approximately a quarter mile from parking, ideal for solo campers with dogs seeking minimal interaction with other pets. Many Kirtland-area campgrounds maintain standard leash requirements, typically six feet or less, and most limit pets to two per site. Thompson/Grand River Valley KOA Holiday and Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA both welcome pets with designated pet exercise areas. Bathroom facilities at most campgrounds remain clean but can become buggy during summer months.
Trails throughout Geauga County parks connect many pet-friendly camping locations, though hikers report significant wildlife activity including coyotes near Penitentiary Glen Reservation. Big Creek Park combines family-accessible trails with fishing opportunities where dogs can safely observe from dedicated fishing docks. When camping with pets during warmer months, many lake areas develop algae blooms that may be harmful to dogs who swim or drink the water. Geneva State Park Campground provides electric hookups and water access, though campers should monitor lake conditions before allowing pets near the water. Most campgrounds require proof of current rabies vaccination, and the nearest emergency veterinary services are located in Chardon and Mentor. Silver Springs Campground offers pet-friendly camping from April through October with restrictions on barking during quiet hours from 10pm to 7am.
"Staff was great, check in area also has a little store with all the essentials stocked up, lots of trails, great for biking and hiking, a park for the kids, fishing, canoeing, showers, flush toilets, all"
"The location was great. Big lake with a lot of water sports. Fantastic (but technical) disc golf course. It was me, my fiancee and my dog in a rooftop tent on top of a Tacoma."
Available this weekend
from $23 - $45 / night
"Not a bad view to be had, easy access to the lake, and burgers and dogs at the pavilion."
"The campground is adjacent to the small community park and baseball fields. Very well maintained and quiet. As an added bonus it is right next to Lake Erie."
from $25 - $45 / night
"The pads are paved and they left a section of trees/woods behind each site to provide some privacy between neighbors. The bathrooms are very clean and the staff were helpful and friendly."
"Easy to get to, not crowded, the sites were paved and spaced decently and, it had bike paths! Another bonus is that it borders Lake Erie."
Available this weekend
from $25 - $65 / night
"Plenty of fire wood provided and a short distance away from the gorge to walk. The second night had lots of coyotes around, which is cool but can be dangerous if not careful of course."
"Would have given this site 5 stars but the walk to the site was a bit more of a haul than expected. It was just myself, kids, and pup."
from $25 / night
"While this is a spot in a smaller park with a lot of day use, the site is a walk off of the trail, and situated slightly lower than trail level for privacy. Amazing sounds, smells, and relaxation."
"Great small park with a hiking trail that takes about an hour or hour and a half, it has a waterfall, small tiny cave, bridges and stairs. Really well maintained paths, tiny gravel for less mud."
"Its a beautiful campsite surrounded by trees with a lake right in the middle of the park. They do provide fire wood though its not always guaranteed."
from $25 / night
"best barhrooms around! showers great. bathrooms great. lots of “lakefront” spots. dog park is pretty great, too! good spot to camp for cayahoga falls national park."
"My wife, 2 dogs, and I came with no reservation. They gave us a temporary tag to drive around and see what site we wanted."
Available this weekend
from $29 - $55 / night
"Fishing lake, swimming lake, trails. Children play areas. Basketball, bad mitten/volleyball, Dog wash, dog parks (2), private fenced dog sites. (2)- pull through site."
"We got a spot near the entrance that had the doggy play pen. It was a well built structure. I felt good about my dogs being in it. The campground is wonderful. So peaceful and pretty."
"Clean facilities, 3 lakes (one with a fishing pier), 2 dog parks, and super friendly staff. 30 min to Cleveland. Walmart, gas stations and restaurants within 5 miles."
"family camping trip. we had a nice time with our kids, friends and dogs. the dog park was a bonus... we camped right next to it. perfect! playground, big open area and a nice pool!"
"Most of the trails are small, well-marked, accessible, and easily walkable for families."
TravelerWe LOVED our stay here! The owners are absolutely amazing & attentive. The grounds are well kept & there were plenty of wide open spaces & multiple playgrounds for our daughter to run and play.
TravelerConvenient right off the highway concrete pads, no sewer, but has electric and water. Nice to get off the road.
ScoutI struggled making a reservation online, you need an account and it wouldn’t let me make one but i was able to call in and reserve a spot same day. I’m traveling to the east coast and just needed a place to pitch a tent for the night. worked perfect.
RangerSimple site with hookups. For the price, I didn't expect much. The hosts were friendly and got me in last minute despite coming in their last weekend of the year. It's about an hour from Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Sadly didnt get more pictures from the campground, aside from a frosty picnic table.
GuideThis place has so much to offer so I’m just going to list them : -Beautiful lakeside camping -clean, spacious and level spots -Boat launch -sandy beach -friendly camp host and park employees -basketball court, sand volleyball court, kids playground and nature center
GuideThis park is off the beaten path and filled mostly with Full Timers in beautiful landscaped sites. But room for overnighters like us. All sites have electric and water. The laundry is small, only 1 working washer, but it came in handy. The bathrooms have free showers but could use a deep cleaning. Big open field for the dog to play
TravelerWe stayed in the fall for one night to visit Cuyahoga Valley Park (about 25 minutes away, as is a Costco). Many choices for short term sites. From the many permanent RVs and water slides in the pond, looks like it could be less quiet other times of year and a fun place for kids (we weren’t traveling with any). Staff nice and helpful but showers were old and dirty, probably in part to the high iron in the water (we didn’t hook up water).
GuideWe were passing through on a weeknight in mid September. Many open sites. Sites are paved and many are sloped. Most are shaded. Our site #41 was fairly level with electricity. Close to huge bathhouse with flush toilets, showers and laundry. High above the lake with views through the trees. Appeared there were many long term campers but just as good for our short overnight stay. Online registration. $45 for electric only site.
LegendWe’ve stayed here several times over the years and it’s always a pleasant experience. Lots of seasonal campers, but most are only in residence on the weekends. During the week we have the place to ourselves. Clean facilities, the standard picnic table and fire ring. Incredible sunsets, lake breeze and nothing but the crashing of the waves to lull you into a peaceful nights rest.
Camping opportunities around Kirtland include both state-managed properties and privately-operated facilities across Geauga and Lake Counties. The region's terrain features a mix of rolling hills and forest areas with elevation changes of 50-100 feet within many campgrounds. Weather patterns typically bring summer temperatures in the 75-85°F range with moderate humidity, creating conditions where site selection can significantly impact comfort levels.
Fishing access: The lakes at Hidden Lakes Family Campground offer paddleboarding and fishing opportunities with sites directly adjacent to water. "We brought our canoe and enjoyed fishing and just cruising around. The larger lake was bigger than I anticipated and was big enough to paddleboard/kayak on," notes Joe F.
Disc golf courses: Several parks maintain courses for all skill levels, including Punderson State Park Campground. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoeing/kayaking/row boats, swimming and golf," writes Rebecca G., highlighting the variety of recreation options available within a single location.
Hiking options: Many campgrounds connect to trail systems ranging from easy to challenging. "There is a 3 mile (ish) bridle trail loop for horses with a couple out and backs. This is the best place to go trail running," explains Kayla S. about The West Woods park, which also offers small primitive campsites.
Secluded tent areas: For those seeking privacy, several locations offer walk-in sites separated from main camping areas. "Site is about a quarter mile from the parking lot so pack light, bring a wagon, and/or be ready for a work out," explains Zachary A. about The West Woods, where the tent pad "is raised so even though it rained and the water streamed through the middle of camp, tent was fine."
Waterfront proximity: Campsites with lake views rank among the most requested. "There are very few sites available. The rest are seasonal sites. The campground is adjacent to the small community park and baseball fields. Very well maintained and quiet. As an added bonus it is right next to Lake Erie," shares Jeff & Alison H. about Perry Township Park.
Space between sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating campgrounds that don't pack units too closely together. "Our site was lakeside and was probably the largest campsite I ever stayed in. Some areas were not as big, especially the pull through sites toward the front, but most of the sites on the back side were large," notes Greg K. about Hidden Lakes Family Campground.
Campsite variations: Site leveling can be challenging at some locations. "The lots are nice and large. The main problem was very hard to level and soft grass they don't have a well compacted area for your tt/rv," reports Jeffrey L. about Silver Springs Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Availability and quality of restrooms varies significantly between campgrounds. "Only one main bathhouse with some port-johns in the back areas," notes one reviewer about Hidden Lakes. At Punderson, "Wifey says the bathrooms were below average, outdated and very buggy (most important for her)," according to Daniel U.
Reservation requirements: Some facilities require advance planning while others accept walk-ins. "Reservations must be made 3 days in advance, so no spur of the moment get aways," explains Jen L. about The West Woods, limiting spontaneous camping options.
Activity wristbands: Structured programs can keep children engaged at Thompson/Grand River Valley KOA Holiday. "The kids loved both the pool and the lake. The breakfast pizza was great. The food prices were very reasonable. The wrist band for kid activities is well worth it," advises Stacie J.
Campground amenities: Facilities designed with children in mind offer convenience. "The park is very well maintained, has a nice playground and cute camp store," shares Daniel U. about Punderson State Park, which also features "a man made beach, loooong floating boardwalk, lots of trails, unique sites and tons of history."
Site selection for privacy: Strategic placement can enhance family camping. At Perry Township Park, "Got in after dinner and luckily we were just car camping, because we got (in our opinion) the best site there! 23 has a great shot of the lake, nice cinder blocks built up to block any wind from the fire pit," recommends Blythe B.
Hookup limitations: Electrical capacity varies between campgrounds and sites. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service. The lots are not even close to level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level," cautions Coy about Geneva State Park Campground.
Site angles: Many Kirtland-area campgrounds feature terrain with natural slopes. "Saw one RV with auto levelers with his tire about foot off the ground. If they leveled the lots and added water and at least 30 amp electric it would help a lot," continues Coy regarding Punderson State Park.
Pull-through availability: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Kirtland provide easier access options. "Many pull through lots, with patios. 50. 30. Full hookup, (sewer and Electric) back in, pull through, tent sites, cabins, teepees," explains Marla S. about Thompson/Grand River Valley KOA Holiday, which also features "Dog wash, dog parks (2), private fenced dog sites."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Kirtland, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Kirtland, OH is Punderson State Park Campground with a 4.0-star rating from 42 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Kirtland, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 80 dog-friendly camping locations near Kirtland, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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