Newbury, Ohio sits in the hilly terrain of Geauga County at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Campsites throughout the region range from lakeside locations with water recreation to woodland settings with varying degrees of elevation change, creating challenges for setting up equipment on uneven ground.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Punderson State Park Campground offers an on-site course for all skill levels. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoeing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," notes Rebecca G. in her review of Punderson State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Nelson-Kennedy Ledges Quarry Park features unique geological formations with trails for different skill levels. "There are numerous trails for different skill levels and tons of caves to explore. Also the view at the end is fantastic and is a great place to relax and read for the day," says Anthony S. about the Nelson-Kennedy Ledges Quarry Park.
Fishing: Many local lakes offer fishing opportunities without requiring a boat. The West Woods has "a waterfall, small tiny cave, bridges and stairs. Really well maintained paths, tiny gravel for less mud. Doggy friendly!" according to Kayla S., who recommends the park for trail running as well.
Kayaking and water recreation: Several parks rent equipment on-site. "The lake they have water sports games kayaking a paddle bike they do provide lifejackets if you do the water sport games there's fishing and and much more," explains Jolynnesyea W. about Woodside Lake Park.
What campers like
Private sites: West Branch State Park offers secluded camping spots. "West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite," writes Alisa G. in her review of West Branch State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathrooms. "The bathrooms were clean separate showers verizon works well here," reports Joe I. about West Branch State Park.
Lake access: Multiple campsites feature direct water access. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," shares Katelyn P. about West Branch State Park.
Varied terrain options: Some campers prefer the unique hillside tent sites. "Really cool 'hill' sites that you have to hike up or down 20-100 feet to your wooded site," notes Daniel U. about Punderson State Park Campground.
What you should know
Tent pad variations: Sites can be challenging for level setup. "The sites greatly very on size and flatness so make sure you look at the pictures of the site before you book some are basically the parking pad and a fire ring, some are big and flat some are on an incline," advises Joe I. about Punderson State Park.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" warns Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Seasonal limitations: Most water activities close after Labor Day. "There is a small beach at the campground but a larger one on the other side of the lake," notes Alisa G., describing amenities at West Branch.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant rain that affects site conditions. "Site is about a quarter mile from the parking lot so pack light, bring a wagon, and/or be ready for a work out... Tent pad is raised so even though it rained and the water streamed through the middle of camp, tent was fine," shares Zachary A. about The West Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated children's areas. "This is a good campground for families. We tent camped here. The sites are pretty far apart and you feel secluded but, at the same time, the bathrooms are close by. There is a lot of hiking and things to do around the area and even a playground for the kiddos," explains Jenny K. about Punderson State Park.
Beach activities: Multiple parks feature swimming areas for children. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities," says James S. about Woodside Lake Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds provide additional entertainment. "There is a store and other recreational areas. It has a lot of day use activity around the lake," notes Duncan G. about Woodside Lake Park.
Book exchange: Some facilities offer reading material for rainy days. "There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days. The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers," shares Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling equipment. "The lots are not even close the 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," warns Coy about Punderson State Park.
Hookup variations: Electric service varies significantly between sites. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service. The lots are not even close the level," explains Coy, highlighting limitations at Punderson for larger RVs.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have water issues. "I left after 2 months due to iron & sulfur laden well water that is provided in at least half the park. I spent hundreds of dollars trying to filter and clean up the water to no avail," warns Jerry L. about Woodside Lake Park.
Arrival timing: Check-in processes vary between parks. "Check in is very easy as you pass the camp store on your way in. All campsites have a fire ring and picnic table," notes Alisa G. about the convenience at West Branch State Park.
