Camping options near Oak Harbor, Ohio range from tent sites to full hook-up RV spots across island and mainland locations. The region contains several campgrounds within 20 miles of Oak Harbor, mostly situated along the Lake Erie shoreline and its tributary waterways. Seasonal operations vary, though some facilities maintain year-round accessibility for campers.
What to do
Fishing from piers and docks: South Bass Island State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access. "The property has mature trees for good shade & there is easy water access for paddling & fishing," notes reviewer Blythe J., who also mentions the "small onsite restaurant/bar, with many more eateries, bars, and wineries a short bicycle or golf cart ride away."
Birding in wetlands: The marshes around Maumee Bay State Park Campground are prime for bird watching. One camper explains, "Bird houses and feeders are located throughout the park and especially in the spring, you can hear many varieties of birds chirping." Dan N. adds, "This on a bay on the very western side of Lake Erie among a wildlife refuge and wilderness area. I came for the birding and wasn't disappointed."
Boardwalk exploration: Several parks offer boardwalk trails through protected wetlands. "A beautiful and extensive boardwalk constructed by the Ohio Civilian Conservation Corps is available only for foot traffic," reports a Maumee Bay visitor, while others recommend the 2-mile boardwalk through wetlands as a highlight of their stay.
What campers like
Privacy despite proximity: Crystal Rock Campground offers sites that feel secluded despite being close together. As Kayla H. describes about another nearby campground, "One of my favorite things about this campground is that your spots are close together which is great for safety, however with the bushes and brush, it feels super private."
Beach access options: Rocky and sandy beaches provide different experiences. "The park has a rocky beach (shoes NECESSARY) which is actually a nice swimming area if you aren't looking for sand under your feet or blanket," shares Stephen S. about South Bass Island. Other campers note that Maumee Bay offers both lakefront and inland beaches.
Island escapes: Kelleys Island State Park Campground provides a more relaxed atmosphere compared to South Bass Island. "The island itself provides loads of entertainment at a minimal price making the 20 minute ferry trip (about $100 round trip for our family and car) worth it," shares Sarah H., while another camper appreciates "being able to hear the waves on the beach even though our spot wasn't on the beach."
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Island campgrounds require planning. "You have to take a ferry to the camp ground. Kelley's Island Ferry in Marblehead. It is a few miles to camp ground so if you are renting and don't bring a vehicle you will want to rent a golf cart," advises Lauri J. For South Bass Island, another camper warns, "note that the wait time to bring it back on a Sunday while usually 2 to 3 hours can also be up to 6 hours from when you get in line."
Site selection importance: Choose sites carefully for the best experience. "The key is site selection at East Harbor...we happened to be in section C which was a newer section of the park. Section C was nice, though in hot sunny days there is very little shade to protect you," shares Mark S.
Turnpike overnight options: For travelers passing through, Blue Heron Ohio Turnpike RV Lot provides convenient overnight parking. "Highway stop is open 24 hrs so you have food and bathrooms all night. Everything is bright, nice and clean and feels very safe. Free overnight stay allowed and for extra $20 you can get electricity," explains Randall K.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Family campers should evaluate site locations carefully. On South Bass Island, "The sites along the cliff overlooking the lake have fabulous views but are ONLY for tents and one should NOT camp there with small kids," cautions Stephen S.
Activity planning: East Harbor State Park Campground offers family-friendly programming. "I enjoy walking to the pond at night and flashlight frogs," shares Jaclyn B., who also recommends the camp store for "all the necessities you may have forgotten."
Weekend timing: Consider scheduling island trips midweek for quieter experiences. "We generally only camp here off-season now. The island is pretty well known as a party island...The entire island is pretty rowdy during the summer so plan accordingly," advises Daniel U. about South Bass Island.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require adjustment for RVs. "The flattest RV sites with fair to good locations are Sites 57 and 44 (although even these will require a little leveling)," notes one RVer about South Bass Island State Park.
Military discount options: Military Park Camp Perry Lodging and RV Park offers specialized amenities for service members. "Everything is black topped. Sites are very long, water hydrants are boxed in with stone. So, if it drips a little it won't get muddy. Sewer hook up is flush to the ground with a manhole cover over it. Won't drive over it & break it," reports Mathew H.
Hookup variations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. A Tall Timbers visitor notes, "No sewer hook up. Level sites. Sites pretty close to each other so only 1 car per site," while adding that despite this limitation, they "really enjoy this campground."
