Montpelier camping options extend beyond the town borders into a tri-state region where Ohio meets Michigan and Indiana. The area sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level in the glaciated till plains of the Midwest. Campers visiting between November and March should prepare for temperatures that can drop below 20°F, with seasonal closures affecting many campgrounds during winter months.
What to do
Kayaking on no-wake lakes: Harrison Lake State Park Campground offers a peaceful paddling experience with kayak and canoe rentals available. "The lake is nice for swimming and there are bike rentals which was fun as well. We did not use it, but there is a dog beach as well," notes one visitor about the varied water activities.
Star-gazing opportunities: Lake Hudson Recreation Area in Michigan is a designated dark sky preserve just north of the Ohio border. "The best part of this campground is the stars at night! This is a dark sky preserve campground and the stars are the show. We stayed here at the end of the perseid meteor showers and saw several of falling meteors," reports one camper who visited specifically for astronomical viewing.
Historical village exploration: Sauder Village Campground in Archbold connects visitors with living history exhibits. "The historical village is an easy 10 minute stroll and worth visiting!" shares one reviewer. The village features demonstrations of blacksmithing, farming, and other pioneer skills within walking distance of campsites.
Horseback riding access: Pokagon State Park Campground in Indiana includes equestrian facilities. "There are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do," mentions one visitor who appreciated the variety of activities. The park maintains dedicated bridle paths separate from hiking trails.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campers highlight the separation between sites at certain campgrounds. At Lake Hudson Recreation Area, "Each site is separated from the next by young forest, so it lends to a very private and secluded atmosphere." Another reviewer noted, "The sites are huge and private with tree growth separating each site."
Clean facilities: Harrison Lake State Park consistently receives praise for maintenance standards. "Very clean and well kept. Lots to do. check it out and see for yourself," writes one regular visitor. Another mentioned, "Campground showers and bathrooms are clean."
Family-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake in nearby Fremont, Indiana emphasizes activities for children. "We have met amazing people and there is so much for our daughter to do. We love Yogi!" shares one family. The resort includes multiple swimming areas: "Love they have a smaller water park for the smaller kids too!"
Quiet atmosphere: For those seeking peace, Lake Hudson Recreation Area delivers tranquility. "The lake itself is incredibly quiet without the buzz of people tubing or jet skiing," notes a visitor. Another camper described their experience: "Peaceful, quiet and stars."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds in the region book quickly during summer months. For Jellystone Park at Barton Lake, one camper advises, "If you are planning a summer weekend you have to book wayyyyy in advance due to demand."
Water access considerations: Lake Hudson Recreation Area has limited lakefront sites. "There are only a few waterfront sites and they are very hard to get. Great for fishing, wildlife viewing and swimming," explains one visitor. The primitive nature of this park also means "You must bring your water unless you want to hand pump it from the only central pump."
Highway noise factors: Some campgrounds have sites near roadways. At Loveberry's Funny Farm Campground near Pioneer, campers appreciate the family-run operation: "This family run campground is immaculately kept! We enjoyed the peaceful site we had and had nothing but friendly interactions."
Weather variability: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. Spring camping often brings rain and mud, while summer humidity can be intense. Fall offers colorful foliage but unpredictable temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Consider yurt options: At Harrison Lake State Park Campground, families can book yurts as an alternative to tent camping. "We rented a yurt as a local weekend escape. Our kids loved the yurt. It was nice with a little mini fridge and 4 double beds," shares one parent who found this option ideal for young children.
Look for splash pad access: Sauder Village Campground includes water play features popular with families. "The fenced in splash pad was our main draw. However the hotel is awesome and campers are allowed usage of their pool and game room," notes a family visitor who took advantage of these amenities.
Pack for bikes: Many campgrounds in the region have flat, kid-friendly terrain for cycling. At Harrison Lake, one visitor observed: "This seemed to be a popular campground for families -- especially little kids on bikes."
Choose campgrounds with planned activities: Several campgrounds offer organized events. At Camp Sack In near Angola, "They have so many activities for families with their swimming pond, hiking trails, basketball court, baseball diamond, horseshoe pits and playgrounds. They offer free coffee on Saturday mornings."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Across the region, RVers note varying degrees of site levelness. At Pokagon State Park Campground, one camper observed, "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven."
Electric hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric sites, but amperage varies. At Lake Hudson Recreation Area, "All are 20/30 amp, no water, no sewer. Several spigots in camp area, no dump station... nearby one at Hayes State Park."
Turnpike service plazas: For RVers passing through on the Ohio Turnpike, the Indian Meadow Ohio Turnpike RV Lot offers convenient overnight options. "There are about 20 spots all for 40 feet total RV leaks. Requires an approval from staff at the travel center. For what it is it is a nice safe break with a potable water station and a dump station right there."
Power cord requirements: At Lake Hudson, "Extension or long electrical cords may be needed, as boxes are at back end and halfway to next site over."
