Mill Creek Camping offers primitive tent sites along Berlin Lake that provide water access for kayaking and fishing. Just 20 miles from Leetonia, the campground maintains 90 acres of woodland with water activities as the main attraction. Sites include fire rings for cooking, but campers should note there are limitations during certain seasons.
What to do
Swimming in a lake with inflatables: At KOA Lake Milton Berlin Lake, kids can enjoy water activities with safety equipment. "The kids absolutely loved swimming in the little lake and sliding/jumping off the inflatables," notes Kelly R. The swimming area features a designated lake with water toys rather than a traditional pool.
Fishing from lakefront sites: Mill Creek Camping provides direct lake access for fishing enthusiasts. "We were fortunate that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked there during our stay," shares Renee G. The campground offers numerous sites with lake frontage for convenience.
Hiking nature trails: Multiple trail options exist at Tomlinson Run State Park, just 35 miles from Leetonia. "Lots of trails to choose from. Some were pretty easy some were a little hilly. My favorite was the fern trail - lots of ferns and a very pretty stream," explains Shannon G., who recommends hiking poles after rainfall.
What campers like
Budget-friendly waterfront camping: Affordable sites with lake views create value for campers. "Low cost for staying ($18 for a waterside, spacious site for up to 8 people, 2 tents at no additional costs)," reports Katie about Mill Creek Camping. Sites include fire rings and picnic tables as standard amenities.
Clean bathhouse facilities: West Branch State Park maintains high standards for restrooms. "Best bathrooms around! Showers great. Bathrooms great," notes Kim B. The shower house also includes a book exchange shelf for rainy days and washers/dryers for laundry needs.
Winter camping options: Year-round availability distinguishes some campgrounds. "We've stayed twice in the off season. We were upgraded to a pull through. The sites are a bit tight. It's been raining and our step out is into mud. To be expected in the area during the winter," explains a camper about their experience at Salem-Lisbon KOA.
What you should know
Site selection challenges: Not all sites offer level ground for comfortable camping. At West Branch State Park, Andrea F. notes: "Our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches." Bring leveling equipment for RVs.
Seasonal changes affect facilities: Water access points close during colder months. Shannon G. explains at Tomlinson Run: "Have to go up to entrance as the water spouts are still shut off." Always check which amenities remain operational during your planned visit dates.
Reservation requirements vary: Popular lake sites fill quickly. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park. Holiday weekends and summer dates require advanced planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Mosquito Lake State Park offers specialized play areas. "Only minor negative is the boat rental was not open for the 2020 season; however, I respect this decision and believe it shows the campground's ethics for preventing the spread of germs and diseases over making revenue!" notes Katie, who enjoyed the nature playground with nets provided for catching critters.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular family-oriented events. "An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," shares Alisa G. about West Branch State Park, which also loans games and sports equipment to campers.
Private campsites: Tomlinson Run State Park provides secluded spots for families seeking privacy. "Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road / cul-de-sac," reports Dusty R., who stayed at tent site 40.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Atwood Lake Park offers full-service options. "All new camping spots with full hookup. Grass is coming in nicely," notes Fred R. The campground has recently upgraded its facilities to accommodate modern RVs with comprehensive utility connections.
Dump station access: West Branch State Park provides a convenient dump station layout. "Dump station- 2 way and potable water on the other side of it. The only place to drop your trash too," explains Shannon G. RVers should plan accordingly when managing waste and water needs.
Early check-in fees: Some campgrounds charge for arriving before scheduled times. At Country Acres Campground, one reviewer noted they "charged him $15 for early check in" when arriving at 12:30 pm instead of the standard check-in time, something to factor into travel planning.
