Camping options near Novelty, Ohio include both family-friendly facilities and remote retreats. Located in northeast Ohio's glaciated Allegheny Plateau region, this area ranges in elevation from 800 to 1,200 feet, creating varied camping terrain with small lakes and rolling hills. Cell service can be spotty in many locations, especially for T-Mobile users, with Verizon typically providing the strongest coverage.
What to do
Fishing access: Countryside Campground offers a woodland path to Mogadore Reservoir for anglers. "There is a nice path through the woods down to the reservoir, where you can fish and kayak," notes one visitor who appreciated the water access.
Mini golf courses: Several campgrounds maintain putting courses for family entertainment. At Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake, "we enjoyed their beautiful put-put course and ice cream stand," according to a reviewer who visited during COVID restrictions when many activities were limited.
Swimming opportunities: When temperatures rise in summer, many campgrounds offer swimming options. "The Quarry is beautiful and fun to fish, swim, 'cliff jump', and relax!" reports a visitor to Nelson-Kennedy Ledges Quarry Park, describing the unique swimming experience available.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms as a priority. "The bathrooms were clean, the showers were nice and the pool was well kept," shared one reviewer about Countryside Campground, where each site includes "a fire ring and picnic table both in good condition."
Organized activities: Scheduled events create community experiences at many campgrounds. A visitor to Kenisee's Grand River Campground reported it's "a great place with a lot of events and entertainment for family's. Multiple fishing ponds, Friday night bingo, bands, fishing tournament for kids, duck race, Christmas in July and many other activities."
Privacy options: Campers seeking seclusion can find sites with more separation. At Indian Creek RV Resort (Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake), campers appreciate that "the back-in sites with water and electric hookups were larger and more private and wooded."
What you should know
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at some campgrounds. At Punderson State Park Campground, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate approximately May through October. At Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake, one remote worker notes it "is a wonderful place to work from remotely if you have an external antenna to cellular internet," indicating the potential connectivity issues despite other amenities.
Site variations: Each campground offers different site types with varied privacy levels. At Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground, a camper reported, "Sites are large and the area is peaceful. The area is well kept and owners are very nice."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground provides play equipment for children. "Our family really enjoyed staying here, and our kids especially loved swimming and fishing in the lake," explains a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
Themed weekends: Many campgrounds organize special events throughout the camping season. At Roundup Lake RV Resort, a camper mentioned, "The themed weekends throughout the season are fun and festive and there are a lot of activities to do and participate!"
Craft activities: Children can enjoy structured creative time at some campgrounds. One family who stayed at Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake appreciated that "they offered craft kits for children to pick up and do at their own campsite in lieu of the usual program" during COVID restrictions.
Tips from RVers
Variable hookup options: RV sites near Novelty, Ohio range from basic to full-service connections. At Roundup Lake RV Resort, "We camped in a 33' TT in a pull through site. Sites are close but shady and large enough for trailer and our truck," reported one RVer traveling with family and pets.
Speed restrictions: Campgrounds enforce driving rules to maintain safety. Roundup Lake RV Resort is known for strictly enforcing its 5 mph speed limit throughout the property, while other campgrounds have similar regulations to protect pedestrians and reduce dust.
Site selection strategy: Choosing the right site impacts your camping experience. At Countryside Campground, an RVer advised, "Get there early or you'll have many vehicles and campers to watch for as you back in!" indicating the challenges of navigating busy campgrounds with larger rigs.
