Camping near Novelty, Ohio ranges from secluded tent sites to lakeside RV parks within a 25-mile radius. The region's glacial geography creates numerous small lakes and ponds, with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler conditions with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Kayaking at Mosquito Lake: The 7,850-acre lake at Mosquito Lake State Park offers extensive water recreation options. "Lots of camping sites along the lake. Concert every Saturday during the summer. Great lake to take the kayaks on," notes Linda R., highlighting the park's water-based activities.
Archery practice: Several parks provide dedicated archery facilities away from camping areas. "We like to bring our bows and use the archery range," says Karen D. about Mosquito Lake State Park, which maintains a full range with multiple target distances.
Disc golf courses: Punderson State Park offers a challenging course through wooded areas. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoeing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," reports Rebecca G., detailing the recreational diversity at the park.
Nature exploration with kids: Many parks feature dedicated nature programs. "If your kids are 8 and under they'll love the nature playground and nets provided to catch critters," shares Joe F. about the educational opportunities at Mosquito Lake.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: West Branch State Park offers campsites with substantial separation. "West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite," explains Alisa G., highlighting the park's waterfront access.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high standards for bathhouses. "The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," notes a West Branch camper.
Farm-based glamping: The Farm at Grand River offers a unique glamping in Novelty, Ohio experience with animal interactions. "My 6 year old daughter lived her farm animal dream life for a week! My daughter loved the free movie nights under stars, running wild with the goats, and the play houses kept her busy for hours," reports Hillz M.
Swimming areas: Many parks maintain dedicated swimming beaches. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities," writes James S. about Woodside Lake Park, describing the recreational water facilities.
What you should know
Site variations: Campground topography varies significantly. "The camp is beautiful... Showerheads were too low for anyone over 5'7", and only a few sites were full hookup," cautions Rebecca G. about Punderson State Park.
Mosquito concerns: Despite their popularity, some parks live up to their names. "Wifey says the bathrooms were below average, outdated and very buggy (most important for her)," reports Daniel U. about facilities at Punderson.
Water quality issues: Woodside Lake Park has reported water quality concerns. "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.
Seasonal flooding: Spring rains can impact site availability. "Unfortunately our campsite was under water due the extensive rains recently this past week and spring overall. But the staff at the camp office gave us a list of all of the open sites that we could choose from," explains Samantha J. about Mosquito Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Choose level sites: Many parks have uneven terrain. "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," warns Coy from Punderson State Park.
Consider glamping yurts: Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA offers family-friendly accommodations. "Family camping trip. We had a nice time with our kids, friends and dogs. The dog park was a bonus... we camped right next to it. Perfect! Playground, big open area and a nice pool!" shares Christy D.
Check wildlife activity: Some areas have significant wildlife presence. "The second night had lots of coyotes around, which is cool but can be dangerous if not careful of course. Coyotes were heard all around the general area," reports Ky G. from Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite.
Look for fishing spots: Many campgrounds offer kid-friendly fishing. "Our kids age 4 and 8 fished from sun up Saturday to about noon and then sporadically after that throughout the day. That night we hunted large bull frogs. All catch and release," describes Joe F. from Kool Lakes Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Bring leveling equipment: Penitentiary Glen Reservation Campsite and others have challenging terrain. "Would have given this site 5 stars but the walk to the site was a bit more of a haul than expected. It was just myself, kids, and pup. So it made setting up camp a bit more work," explains Jillian E.
Check hookup types: Services vary widely between parks. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service," notes Coy about Punderson, important information for glamping near Novelty, Ohio with electrical needs.
Verify water sources: Water quality concerns exist at some parks. "Site pads are rip rap 1" to 4" size rock with no fine rock coverings, or in some areas smoother rock and dirt but nowhere close to flat or level. Water drainage when it's raining is deplorable," warns Jerry L. about Woodside Lake Park.
Research site dimensions: Some parks have tight spacing. "The sites greatly vary 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.
