Camping options around Cortland, Ohio center primarily around Mosquito Lake State Park, offering diverse accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin facilities. This 7,850-acre park features numerous waterfront campsites along its expansive reservoir, with a mix of electric-only and full-hookup options. Several campgrounds in the area feature wooded sites with varying degrees of privacy, while neighboring state parks like Pymatuning and West Branch provide additional camping areas within 30 miles of Cortland.
Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though facilities and amenities may be limited during winter months. "Most sites are electric hook-up only. They are putting in new sites, full service sites," noted one camper at Mosquito Lake State Park. Seasonal considerations affect site conditions, particularly after heavy rainfall when some areas become saturated or partially flooded. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially for weekend stays during peak summer months. Cell service varies throughout the region, with spotty coverage reported at some of the more wooded sites. Access roads are generally well-maintained, allowing for straightforward entry with most vehicles including larger RVs.
Waterfront campsites consistently receive positive reviews, particularly those along Mosquito Lake with views of the water. A visitor mentioned that "sites from 214-224 are in a cul de sac and are water front, but they were pretty close together with very little privacy between sites." Sites vary significantly in terms of size, shade coverage, and proximity to neighbors. Campers report that the more wooded sites offer better privacy, while open areas provide easier access for larger rigs. Recreational opportunities abound with fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking available at most parks. Bathroom and shower facilities vary in quality and modernity across campgrounds, with some locations currently undergoing renovations to improve amenities. Proximity to shopping and restaurants in Cortland provides convenient access to supplies for extended stays.
"This park is one of my favorites in Ohio at this time. Most of the sites are some what private. There are many trails and even a fog park next to the lake."
"The group next to us seemed a little rowdy when we first pulled in, but by 10:00 there was no noise anywhere near us. "
$24 - $33 / night
"Ranger Review: Morsel Spork at West Branch State Park **Campground Review: **
This state park was very welcome after our first two unlucky Ohio state park experiences."
"Here's what's great about this campground situated at an easy drive from major cities like Columbus and Cleveland...its scenic, a fully loaded campground with bathhouses, parks, hiking paths, swimming"
$27 - $29 / night
"We love being near the water when camping and at Pymatuning most if not all sites have views of the beautiful lake and the Pennsylvania shoreline across the lake."
"We camped on the Ohio side of the lake but spent several hours on the Pennsylvania feeding the HUGE schools of carp at the spillway."
$24 - $150 / night
"If the noise is not an issue, this run of tent sites are well spaced, and offer easy access to the facilities."
"There was a little bit of a swampy area behind us but the lake was further away. We could walk to it through the woods from our site on a trail that went behind some other sides. "
$18 - $34 / night
"The Shenango Recreation Area is a large campground with some 300 plus sites located on a lake in western Pennsylvania. Access to the campground is fairly easy and about 12 miles north of I-80."
"Most spaces are shaded and if not on the water, close to the water. We took kayaks - endless places to put into the water including from many sites. Easy 1.5 hour drive from Pittsburgh."
$45 - $55 / night
"Our family really enjoyed staying here, and our kids especially loved swimming and fishing in the lake. In the evening, we bought some firewood from the campground owners for our bonfire."
"The only downside for us is that we're full-time and this is close to "home." We don't really use the amenities, so we can't validate having to pay for anyone to visit us only at our rv."
$45 - $60 / night
"If you're looking for the perfect getaway that combines the beauty of nature with the joys of a refreshing pool, then Jeffcolakes in Andover, Ohio, is an absolute gem of a campsite."
"Jeffco Lakes Resort is an absolute gem! My recent stay there was a delightful experience from start to finish."
"If you're looking to stay off the grid, I stayed in M62, the woods directly behind me, no cell service."
"Many of my friends from Ohio recommended checking out Nelson Ledges for apparent “cliff jumping” and a music festival."
$12 - $15 / night
"Thankfully Youngstown, Ohio isn't really a vacation destination. Only 5 Sites are full hookup. The rest are water/ electric. It's attached to the Youngstown Regional Airport."
$38 / night
"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"
"I had the furthest lakeside tent from the office. was a beautiful site but the water treatment facility had a loud hum all night, even though they said it was quiet."
ScoutThis beautiful small state park is only a half hour away from my house. It's close enough that we ho for a week several times a year and I can still drive to work daily. We love the sites lakeside. It's great to be able to fish right in our own campsite. It is small but always a great time every time we go. Also make sure you go to Lisbon and get Mary's Pizza. Trust me you won't regret it!
GuideWe loved this lake. The water temps were perfect mid June and everyone was so nice! They had clean restrooms/showers and lots of room at each site.
GuideWe had an amazing time at Geneva state park. We stayed at the primitive sites and it was great. The bathrooms were clean and the views were amazing.
GuideThe camping was a great place for someone with a disability and is a dog friendly place. Perfect for a trip to the lake
ScoutGreat rv park top of the line amenities and staff very clean and a great time. I highly recommend this rv location and their cabins seem to be excellent
GuideI had originally gotten lot #81 but quickly got it switched to #83 because it was just waaaay better. Flatter ground and I was able to go deeper into the woods.
I went the first week of October, and on weekdays, which was great because I had no neighbors.
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 that fancy stuff was there.
Only down side was occasional road noise which I just can't seem to escape in my area of Ohio. And I personally wouldn't go here on weekends or over the summer because there are RV sites everywhere, which is another thing that dominates my area of Ohio.
Going again, as long as I don't have the kids, I would try for a test space as far from the road and is deep in the forest as possible. Do that at tge right time of year and I think this will be a great spot for me in the future
GuideA beautiful campground with plenty of things to do. Fishing, boating (nice docks), beach for swimming and various functions throughout the year. All bath houses and restrooms are handicap available with each toilet and shower set up individually . Really nice
ScoutQuiet tent campsite parked in this area. There are quite a few RVs parked here and it appears lively, but the tent area in hilltop was quiet and secluded. Very kid friendly. At night, there was highway noise in the background. A lot to do here but also very close to Cuyahoago Valley National Park.
RangerYou can camp right on the lake in some spots. Tons of trails to hike and a beautiful beach.
Campers near Cortland, Ohio have several options within a 30-mile radius. The area sits in the glaciated Allegheny Plateau with an elevation around 900 feet above sea level. The climate features distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 80°F and winters dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region experience peak visitation from May through September, with occupancy rates often reaching 75-90% on summer weekends.
Paddling on Pymatuning Lake: At Pymatuning State Park Campground, water activities dominate recreational options. "The park is very nice. Great Lodge. Nice lakes and cabins to rent," reports a visitor. Kayak and rowboat rentals are available seasonally.
Hiking trails: Many campgrounds offer walking paths of varying difficulties. At Punderson State Park Campground, "Beautiful scenery, very large park, fishing, boat rentals, man made beach, loooong floating boardwalk, lots of trails, unique sites and tons of history." The park features historically significant areas with interpretive signage.
Disc golf courses: Several parks offer disc golf facilities. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," notes a Punderson State Park visitor. Most courses have 9-18 holes and are suitable for beginners.
Archery ranges: Practice your bow skills at designated facilities. "We like to bring our bows and use the archery range," mentions a visitor about West Branch State Park, which maintains a target range with multiple shooting stations.
Waterfront access: West Branch State Park Campground receives high marks for its lakeside sites. "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. We're in a self contained RV so it's not a problem for us. Beach is right next door too!" This campground features multiple lakefront loops with varying amenities.
Spacious sites: Site dimensions vary across campgrounds, but certain locations stand out. "The sites are huge. The dog park is amazing. Theres so much to do here. Swimming, boating, fishing. We love it," explains a camper at Mosquito Lake State Park. Many sites offer at least 40-50 feet between camping units.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards vary by location. At Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground, "It is beautifully set up with a small lake for swimming, playgrounds, pavillions, games, events, music etc. Level gravel sites with really great grassy areas." The private ownership here results in consistent upkeep.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds support abundant wildlife. "The bald eagles sit in the trees not at all bothered by us. amazing," describes a visitor at Pymatuning's Jamestown Campground. Bird watchers should bring binoculars for spotting waterfowl, osprey, and other species.
Reservation requirements: During peak season, advance booking is essential. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises a camper at West Branch State Park. Holiday weekends typically book completely 3-6 months ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Cortland, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Cortland, OH offers a wide range of camping options, with 142 campgrounds and RV parks near Cortland, OH and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Cortland, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cortland, OH is Mosquito Lake State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 23 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cortland, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Cortland, OH.
What parks are near Cortland, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Cortland, OH that allow camping, notably Michael J Kirwan Lake and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Keep Exploring
