Camping sites near North Baltimore, Ohio offer a mix of recreational activities alongside practical facilities in this flat, agricultural region. Most campgrounds open from April through October, with overnight fees ranging from $25-60 depending on hookup needs and seasonality. Winter camping options exist but are limited to a few year-round facilities that maintain heated restrooms during colder months.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Mary Jane Thurston State Park Campground features a well-maintained frisbee golf course that complements their hiking trails. "There are great hiking trails and a nice frisbee golf course," notes Shawn.
Cross-country skiing opportunities: Winter recreation options exist at certain parks when conditions permit. "I came cross country skiing here in early January and it was absolutely amazing. It is cold but the terrain is simple for first time skiers," reports Kevin T. about Van Buren State Park.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with unique attractions. At Adventure Bound Pleasant View, "There are some toys to enjoy on the water," according to Georgia, who notes that "most campers are yearly campers."
Biking on flat terrain: The region's level landscape creates ideal conditions for cycling. Campers can bring their own bikes or sometimes rent them. "It is also an amazing place to ride bikes, everything is flat and there are also plenty of bike paths," shares a camper at Maumee Bay.
What campers like
Privacy despite proximity: Many campsites use natural barriers for seclusion. "Our site was right along the Maumee River and our view was just breathtaking. We watching the seagulls play and catch food while great blue herons skimmed that water and fisherman were out fly fishing," says Andrea F. at Mary Jane Thurston State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviews mention facility maintenance as a highlight. "The shower house has individual bathrooms with your own sink, shower, toilet. These are kept very clean," reports Julia H. about Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA.
Bird watching opportunities: The region attracts various bird species. "We enjoyed two stays at this campground, once in September and once in May. Bird houses and feeders are located throughout the park and especially in the spring, you can hear many varieties of birds chirping," says Lee D.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature generous site dimensions. "All sites are very generous in size and appear to be spaced with a decent amount of space apart with foliage providing varying levels of privacy," notes a camper about Maumee Bay.
What you should know
Limited shower facilities: Several campgrounds have minimal shower options. "No showers, but clean and sturdy pit toilets with centralized well water," mentions Joseph N. about Van Buren State Park Campground.
Early check-in fees: Some campgrounds charge for arriving before official check-in times. At Adventure Bound Camping & Cabins, "Whatever you do, do not come before the 2 pm check-in time because they will charge you even if you're with a group!" warns Michelle C.
Seasonal limitations: Winter access varies significantly. "There is no water at the camp sites, but water is available. There are no shower facilities," explains Shawn about Mary Jane Thurston.
Water quality concerns: Monitor water conditions at certain locations. "In the bathroom there was a weird smell almost like sewage and the smell was coming from the water," reports Brittney K. about Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience. At Van Buren State Park Campground, "If you can get a good middle spot it's nice if you have kids since there's a playground, swings, basketball, and tether court," advises Brendan V.
Child-friendly water features: Some locations offer specialized water attractions for children. "Kids will love the amenities. This campground has everything you could want. Kids areas, swimming pond and pool, dog park area and pleasant employees," shares Annette A. about Adventure Bound Pleasant View.
Site selection for tent campers with children: Consider site dimensions carefully. "Some of the sites are small so you have to be careful which you site you reserve if you're a tent camper. The outside of the circle is your best bet," recommends Brendan V.
Camp store availability: Not all locations have well-stocked stores. "The check in cabin had ice and wood for sale but no store," mentions Shannon G., highlighting the importance of bringing necessary supplies.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Be aware of sewage disposal options. At Shadylake Campground, full hookups are available, but some parks require driving to a separate area. "Only criticism is you have to drive to another area of the park for an RV dump," notes Nicole G. about Van Buren State Park.
Site pad quality: Recently improved sites offer better parking surfaces. "Our site was really nice. The pads were recently paved and had a huge bumper at the end," reports Shannon G.
Pull-through availability: Certain campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with easy-access sites. "We were in Site# 504. We had Full hook-up with a gravel pull-through. We travel towing a 14 foot trailer and were able to fit both in our pull through site along with my jeep," shares Julia H.
Electrical reliability: Check amperage availability as it varies between parks. "Electric did not work at all sites," warns Alysha W. about certain locations.
