Michael J Kirwan Lake sits within the Berlin Lake Wildlife Area in northeastern Ohio, covering 2,650 acres of water surrounded by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. The reservoir's elevation of 951 feet provides seasonal variation with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Camping options range from basic primitive sites to more developed facilities, with most campgrounds operating from April through October when temperatures typically range from 45°F to 85°F.
What to do
Boating access points: Mill Creek Camping at Berlin Lake Wildlife Area offers convenient water access with multiple boat launch facilities. "Nice boat dock! Love the lake front sites! And excellent price!" notes camper Sami Jo L.
Disc golf courses: Punderson State Park Campground maintains an 18-hole course among mature trees. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoeing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," reports Rebecca G., highlighting the variety of recreational options.
Hiking trails: The area features both paved and natural paths connecting campgrounds to water features. Camper Gary G. from Silver Springs Campground states, "There is also a wooded walking trail network on the east and North sides of the campground," providing easy access to nature exploration without driving.
What campers like
Waterside accommodations: Lakefront sites at Mill Creek Camping remain popular for direct water access. "We book a lakefront site and it is just gorgeous! We have our own private little beach which our dog loves," says Sarah K., describing the appeal of these premium locations.
Quiet weekday stays: For campers seeking tranquility, midweek reservations offer significantly less crowded experiences. "Gets loud and crowded on the weekend as usual... Peaceful when the early morning lawn mower brigade has gotten past," reports Alika T. from Mill Creek, suggesting timing visits to avoid peak periods.
Swimming options: Lake Milton Berlin Lake KOA features a swimming area with inflatable water structures. "The lake is amazing. Nice and flat grounds. A lot of sites for its size. Very nice lake and inflatables in swim area," describes Fred R., highlighting the maintained swimming facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October. The Silver Springs camp office advises using their current reservation system at their municipal website, with Jason C. noting, "Spoke with Department Office who was very helpful in pointing me to the current reservation web site."
Bathroom facilities vary: Silver Springs Campground offers limited facilities. "Bathrooms are just port-a-johns located on either side of the campground but there are flushable toilets a little walk away," explains Abbey E., providing important context for planning bathroom access.
Site leveling challenges: Multiple campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. At Punderson State Park, camper Coy reports, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation scheduling: Woodside Lake Park provides multiple water activities with equipment. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities," says James S., though Jennifer H. adds a timing note: "Swimming (wish it were open a little later…)."
Playground options: Family-oriented campgrounds maintain play areas for children. Tommy K. from Countryside Campground states, "Playground was a hit for our 8yr and under kids," while describing the spacious tent sites that accommodate larger family groups.
Planned activities: Weekend events often include organized programs. "We camped at site #10. Was level side to side, lots are pretty tight in that area. Staff had crafts and pumpkin decorating for kids also and were helpful and friendly," reports Joe F. from Countryside Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric service limitations: Power hookups vary significantly between campgrounds. Gary G. from Silver Springs notes, "Gave it an extra star for proximity to Cuyahoga Valley NP, bargain price for a site with electric hookups," while others like Punderson State Park only offer 15-20 amp service at many sites.
Water quality considerations: Well water at some locations contains high mineral content. At Woodside Lake Park, a recent visitor advises, "Verify where and what water source you are on. Bring plenty of filters and plan on sanitizing your system after staying there."
Pull-through site availability: Several campgrounds offer drive-through sites for easier parking. Kathryn P. from Countryside Campground reports, "The pull thru sites were a tad small but nice and long. Even with the sites close together it was quiet and peaceful."
