Glamping in Lodi, Ohio offers alternatives to standard tent camping for those wanting more comfortable overnight accommodations. The region sits at approximately 1,080 feet above sea level in northeastern Ohio's rolling farmland and woodlands. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons can see significant temperature fluctuations between day and night.
What to do
Fishing and water recreation: Charles Mill Lake provides multiple fishing opportunities with a stocked lake. At Charles Mill Lake Park Campground, visitors can fish from their lakeside sites or launch boats from the marina. "We loved the fishing available here we also had the kids they enjoyed the arcade and gem mining," notes Jessica J. from American Wilderness Campground.
Hiking trails: Several parks feature well-maintained hiking paths of varying difficulties. Mohican State Park offers extensive trail systems through wooded terrain. "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," explains Nicole K. The park includes a covered bridge, overlooks, and several waterfalls accessible via connecting trails.
Indoor recreation: For rainy days or extreme temperatures, some campgrounds provide indoor options. Mohican Adventures features an indoor pool that campers appreciate during weather extremes. A visitor remarked, "We camped here off season and had the place to ourselves...the indoor pool and shower houses were amazing."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers consistently mention waterfront access as a highlight. West Branch State Park offers sites directly on Kirwan Reservoir. According to Rino S., "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. Beach is right next door too!" These water-adjacent sites allow for kayak launching from individual campsites.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives frequent positive mentions across multiple campgrounds. One camper at Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA noted, "The staff was friendly, the amenities were clean, and the campground was quite serene." Another mentioned this KOA has "great shower/restrooms conveniently located" and "wonderful staff."
Family activities: Organized recreational options for children rank high in visitor satisfaction. One visitor to Whispering Hills Campground stated, "They have crafts, swimming, a lake for fishing, newly chip and sealed roads, jump pads x2, hiking trails, a creek to explore and play in, an outdoor theater, and so so much more."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. At West Branch State Park, one camper reported, "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."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate with limited services during winter months. Meadow Lake Park runs from May 1 to November 1, while others like American Wilderness operate from late April through mid-October. Year-round options exist but with reduced amenities during winter.
Reservation timing: Popular weekends book months in advance, especially for waterfront sites. One West Branch State Park visitor advised, "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid zones: Campgrounds with designated play areas provide safer recreation spaces. At Clay's Resort Jellystone Park, one family noted, "Great for kids there is no place better tons of things to do, great water park, amusement place near by, good people and nice family atmosphere."
Consider weekday visits: Lower occupancy during weekdays means more space and quieter conditions. A Mohican Adventures visitor mentioned, "Me and a friend went in the middle of the week and as a result practically had the entire Buzzard section of the Primitive tent camping section to ourselves."
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Spring and fall camping requires layered clothing for comfort. Evening temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees from daytime highs, especially in early spring and late fall camping seasons.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Some RV sites have limited space between units. As one camper at Mohican Adventures observed, "The sites seemed a little small so it might feel crowded during peak season."
Utility placement varies: Electric, water and sewer connections may require longer-than-standard hookup equipment. A Charles Mill visitor noted, "The sites were small, very uneven and dirty. We saw seasonal campers with four and five cinder blocks holding up one corner or another."
Maneuvering room considerations: Some campgrounds have tight interior roads making navigation challenging. One visitor to Streetsboro KOA mentioned, "The site was level and easy to hook up to," which isn't always the case at other local campgrounds with narrower access roads.
