Madison, Ohio offers year-round camping options with peak season running May through October. The area's proximity to Lake Erie creates moderate temperatures with summer highs around 80°F and significant snowfall in winter months. Several campgrounds maintain designated dog areas with specific amenities for pets that weren't mentioned in other descriptions.
What to do
Biking adventures: 3-mile trail from Geneva State Park Campground [links to https://thedyrt.com/camping/ohio/ohio-geneva-state-park] connects directly to Geneva-on-the-Lake. "Great campground with bike trails leading all the way in to Geneva By the Lake where you will find entertainment for the family," notes Linda R. The paved path provides a safe route for cyclists of all skill levels.
Disc golf course: The 18-hole course at Punderson State Park [links to https://thedyrt.com/camping/ohio/ohio-punderson-state-park] offers a free activity for campers. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," according to Rebecca G. The course winds through wooded areas and open fields with varied terrain.
Western quest activity: A scavenger hunt designed for children at Hidden Lakes Family Campground features specially marked posts. "Kids enjoyed the western quest searching for posts w symbols arranged around campground," reports Joe F. This activity typically takes 1-2 hours to complete and provides an organized activity without electronics.
What campers like
Large, private lakeside sites: Hidden Lakes Family Campground [links to https://thedyrt.com/camping/ohio/hidden-lakes-family-campground] offers spacious waterfront camping. "Our site was lakeside and was probably the largest campsite I ever stayed in. Most of the sites on the back side were large," states Greg K. The waterfront sites allow for direct lake access for fishing or paddling.
Clean bathing facilities: At Geneva State Park, restroom cleanliness consistently receives positive mentions. "The facilities were very clean as well," confirms Sara S. Most campground bathhouses offer hot showers with reasonable water pressure, though availability may be limited during peak hours.
Security features: Willow Lake Campground [links to https://thedyrt.com/camping/ohio/willow-lake-campground] maintains secure grounds with controlled access. Kevin C. notes it's "a very nice, very secure campground that isn't far from a lot of attractions and wineries in the Geneva region of Ohio's wine country." The security measures include regular staff patrols and well-lit common areas.
What you should know
Lot leveling requirements: At Punderson State Park, many campsites have significant slope issues. "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," reports Coy. Bring extra leveling blocks if camping in an RV.
Firewood restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit outside firewood. "They don't allow outside firewood and you have to pay $12 a bundle for theirs," mentions Greg K. about Hidden Lakes. This policy aims to prevent the spread of invasive insects but adds to camping costs.
Electric service limitations: Older campgrounds may have limited electrical capacity. At Punderson, "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service," according to Coy. Check amperage before booking if you require higher electrical output for air conditioning or multiple devices.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Hidden Lakes Family Campground provides several play areas throughout the property. "Has pool and pond. Multiple play grounds," Sarah Q. mentions. These separate play zones help distribute children and reduce crowding during busy weekends.
Thompson KOA's activity wristband: The KOA Holiday [links to https://thedyrt.com/camping/ohio/thompson-grand-river-valley-koa] offers an all-access pass for children. "The wrist band for kid activities is well worth it," according to Stacie J. This single purchase covers multiple attractions and games throughout your stay.
Beach access for children: Several Lake Erie campgrounds offer swimming areas. "The camp is beautiful. Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," says Rebecca G. about Punderson State Park. Most beach areas lack lifeguards, so parental supervision is required.
Tips for RVers
Premium site selection: At Kenisee's Grand River Campground [links to https://thedyrt.com/camping/ohio/kenisees-grand-river-r-v-sales], many sites offer full hookups with sewer connections. "We had site 12, which was upfront near the office, showers etc. Great location if your staying more than a few hours," recommends Mary Elisabeth D. Front sites provide convenient access to amenities but may have more foot traffic.
Deluxe sites for pet owners: Thompson/Grand River Valley KOA Holiday includes specialized pet accommodations. "We always ask for deluxe sites because we travel with 2 dogs and I must like having the extra space. This KOA did not let us down," Janet A. explains. These sites typically provide more room and may include private fenced areas for dogs.
Dusty road conditions: Be aware of dust at some campgrounds during dry periods. Greg K. notes about Hidden Lakes: "The road are mostly dirt and dusty, but didn't bother me. It was worse when it rained and everything was muddy when we were trying to leave." Consider site location relative to main roads when booking during summer months.
