West Branch State Park Campground near Lakemore, Ohio features over 14 miles of shoreline along the Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir with waterfront campsites spread across 2,650 acres of woodland terrain. Camping elevation averages around 1,000 feet above sea level with sites offering varying degrees of shade and slope. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-35°F, while summer brings averages of 75-85°F with moderate humidity throughout the camping season.
What to do
Lakefront activities: Access the water directly from select campsites at West Branch State Park Campground. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," notes Alisa G., who visits annually.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at Countryside Campground with access to Mogadore Reservoir. "There is a nice path through the woods down to the reservoir, where you can fish and kayak," shares Kathryn P., who plans to make this a yearly destination.
Hiking trails: Explore multiple footpaths at Rivers Edge Camping Area. "The camp site is a short walk and was very nice. The porta potty was very big, clean and had hand sanitizer! In the morning there were many runners in the park but they stayed away from the camping area," explains Rebecca K.
Water recreation: Enjoy swimming and inflatable water features at KOA Lake Milton Berlin Lake. "We had a great time. The campground was clean, the bathrooms were updated and also extremely clean. My 2 boys had so much fun at the lake and the playground and the bounce pad," reports Casey L.
What campers like
Private shoreline access: Waterfront sites at Mill Creek Camping provide personal beach areas. "We were here for the first time last year and loved it so much we came back this year. We have our own private little beach which our dog loves," Sarah K. mentions about her lakefront site.
Individual showers: Many campers appreciate the shower facilities at West Branch State Park. Dan M. specifically notes the "clean individual showers" in his five-star review, while another visitor mentioned the park offers "the best bathrooms around! Showers great."
Family activities: Woodside Lake Park offers numerous recreation options. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities. The place is clean and friendly with a pretty good selection at the camp store," James S. reports from his regular visits.
Seasonal events: Fall camping brings special activities like Halloween celebrations. Joe F. describes his experience at Countryside Campground: "Kids trick or treated and all campers were very friendly. Staff had crafts and pumpkin decorating for kids also and were helpful and friendly."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds feature unlevel sites that require preparation. At Punderson State Park, "The lots are not even close to level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level. Saw one RV with auto levelers with his tire about foot off the ground," warns Coy.
Water quality varies: Be prepared for potential water issues at some locations. "The water smelled horrible, and both the shower head and faucet were caked with scum. My kids begged not to have to take a shower because of the smell," reports one visitor to a local campground.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
