Most campgrounds near Melmore, Ohio operate seasonally, typically closing between mid-October and early May. The area sits within the glaciated Allegheny Plateau at approximately 950 feet elevation, creating terrain that ranges from gently rolling to flat, with several water features including fishing ponds and access to the Kokosing River. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, making most facilities unavailable during colder months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kokosing River Campground offers access to a peaceful lake popular with anglers. "Beautiful lake, nice and quiet. Lots of waterfowl," notes reviewer Shelly S., who visited in September when the campground wasn't crowded. The wildlife area surrounding the Kokosing River Campground provides additional nature viewing options.
Swimming and water activities: Arrowhead Lake RV Park features multiple water recreation options for visitors. "They have two ponds, one for fishing and one for swimming. The swimming one has a dock kids jump off but it only goes to about 3.5-4 feet deep at the deepest point," explains Bryatt S. The relatively shallow depth makes this spot appropriate for families with younger children.
Miniature golf and organized activities: Cedarlane RV Resort includes recreational facilities beyond swimming. "This campground has a little bit of everything... They have a great splash pad and wading pool for kids. There is a new Tiki Hut to get adult drinks. A gem mine, horseshoes, basketball court and lots of kids activities," writes Jeffrey C., highlighting the variety of structured recreation options at Cedarlane RV Resort.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sunset Springs RV Resort receives positive feedback for maintenance. "We enjoyed our time at Sunset Springs. The owners are very friendly and accommodating. Facilities are clean and modern, and the grounds very nice," shares Dave K. about Sunset Springs RV Resort, which operates from May through mid-October.
Friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds near Melmore cultivate community among guests. "Everyone was so friendly to us 'weekenders' and can't wait to come back," writes Shelby T. about Sunset Springs. The welcoming environment extends to seasonal campers who return annually to the same sites.
Wooded camping options: For tent campers seeking shade, Leafy Oaks provides secluded sites. "We tent camp. They have a great spot that's set back in the woods. There are lots of trees. Very peaceful," explains Amanda E. about Leafy Oaks RV Park and Campground, which operates from mid-April through mid-October.
What you should know
Limited amenities in tent areas: While most campgrounds offer facilities, not all are equally distributed. "Dislikes are no shower houses or toilets back there except one port a potty. The shower houses they do have not a huge fan of. Def bring your flip flops," cautions Amanda E. about Leafy Oaks, highlighting the trade-off between peaceful wooded sites and convenient facilities.
Variable site quality: Site conditions can differ significantly within the same campground. "The site we were assigned took three blocks to level up, the power was on the wrong side and our picnic table was in the back area of another camper," reports Sue B. about her experience at Gotta Getaway RV Park, which operates 102 sites from May through October.
Wildlife considerations: Natural settings mean encountering local fauna. "There was a large flock of geese that stayed near the lagoon which meant goose poop around our site. It was also very buggy in the evenings," warns Renee L. about Fort Firelands RV Park. Bringing insect repellent is advisable, especially during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shallow swimming areas: When camping with children, water depth matters. "The swimming one has a dock kids jump off but it only goes to about 3.5-4 feet deep at the deepest point. Overall a pretty nice camping spot," notes Bryatt S. about Arrowhead Lake RV Park & Campground.
Consider campgrounds with activity programming: Some facilities offer organized events. "We visited east harbor state park while there and the beach was weird, there's a rock wall bordering the lake so you have to either climb down the low wall or walk to the designated opening," explains Ashley R., whose daughter enjoyed the gem mining and splash pad at Cedarlane RV Resort.
Check playground equipment: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Has lots of stuff for kids to do. Pools are small and can be a little crowded during the summer on weekends. They have a great splash pad and wading pool for kids," Jeffrey C. notes about Cedarlane, emphasizing weekend crowds during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service variations: RV campers should verify electrical compatibility. "They only had 50w outlets, but will lend you a converter for $15.00, which is refundable upon leaving," mentions Lisa K. about Fort Firelands RV Park. Similarly, Camp Perry uses an unusual sewer configuration: "Sewer hook up is flush to the ground with a manhole cover over it. Won't drive over it and break it," explains Mathew H.
Site access considerations: RV site design affects ease of parking. "All sites are angled and very easy to back into. No pull thru sites here, but trust me Super easy to back into," assures Mathew H. about Military Park Camp Perry Lodging and RV Park, noting its paved surfaces and thoughtful layout.
Seasonal considerations for RV camping near Melmore: Most RV parks operate from May through October, with limited winter options. "The site was large with a large grassy area right on the lagoon," shares Renee L. about Fort Firelands, which like many area campgrounds, accepts only cash or checks rather than credit cards.
