East Harbor State Park and nearby camping destinations sit along the shores of western Lake Erie at approximately 600 feet elevation, where the relatively flat terrain creates easy access to waterfront activities. Camping options near Old Fort range from primitive tent sites to fully-equipped glamping accommodations and yurts that remain operational primarily from April through October. The area experiences warm, humid summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and mild spring and fall seasons ideal for camping.
What to do
Birding opportunities: East Harbor State Park offers excellent bird watching, especially during migration seasons. "The park is very well maintained. This park is close to Toledo and within spitting distance of several refineries although you'd never know it! Bird houses and feeders are located throughout the park and especially in the spring, you can hear many varieties of birds chirping," notes a visitor to Maumee Bay State Park.
Island exploration: Take a ferry to Put-in-Bay for a day trip from your mainland campsite. "The island is pretty well known as a party island so we generally only camp here off-season now. There is a lot to see and explore like the caves, the monument in the world famous bars," reports a camper who visited South Bass Island State Park.
Waterfront activities: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for swimming and paddling. "The campground is right on the shore of Lake Erie, there are a few restaurants nearby. The camp store has all the necessities you may have forgotten. I enjoy walking to the pond at night and flashlight frogs," shares a reviewer at East Harbor State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the landscaping that creates personal space. "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. My grandparents were in the site next to me in their camper and I had to walk a ways to see their spot," mentions a reviewer at Maumee Bay State Park.
Extensive trail systems: The interconnected trails for hiking and biking receive positive feedback. "It is a great place for birding, fishing, boating and close to marblehead lighthouse and the ferries to take you to Kelley's Island and Put In Bay," explains a camper who stayed at East Harbor State Park.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Old Fort, Ohio, Kelleys Island State Park offers well-equipped options. "Yurts are available for rent. Accommodates RV, tent and group camping, although tent spots can be cramped. But nothing beats a lake view spot! I recommend bringing or renting bikes to tour the island!"
What you should know
Algae conditions affect swimming: Lake Erie sometimes experiences harmful algal blooms that impact water activities. "I only gave this campground 3 stars due to not being able to swim (beach was closed due to algae/unsafe water). The park is close enough to visit touristy places during the day, but far enough from the noise to feel relaxed," shares one East Harbor State Park visitor.
Weekend vs. weekday experience: Campgrounds near tourist areas have distinct personality shifts between weekends and weekdays. "Pick when you want to go depending upon how much you enjoy noise and partying. Mid week during the summer season is the best time for those who aren't into 24 hour partying and weren't able to snag a cliff side camp site," advises someone who stayed at South Bass Island State Park.
Weather considerations: The lake effect creates specific camping conditions. "My only tip would be to bring plenty of bug spray in the summer, there are lots of bugs that come off the lake. Also make sure you bring jackets and blankets, even in the summer it can get pretty cool in the evening," notes a Camp Sandusky visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "It had a nice playground for kids and the campground is at the far end of the island so you will have to travel a bit to get around to the different sites and restaurants," mentions a Kelleys Island State Park visitor.
Beach access considerations: Some beaches are rockier than others, requiring proper footwear. "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. That beach is the only free public place to swim on the island," a South Bass Island State Park camper points out.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide kid-friendly activities. "Great hiking, wonderful nature center on site with some planned activities to participate in. Camp store is also in close proximity to nature center," notes a visitor to East Harbor State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Different campground loops offer varying experiences for RVers. "You can camp however you'd like too! They have RV sites, tent sites and cabins. All mixed in together so you can travel with all your favorite campers," explains someone who stayed at Camp Sandusky.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at some campgrounds. "Sites 1-11 and 21-29 have full hookups (water, sewer, electric). Also, there are a lodge and cabins. The park is very well maintained," reports a visitor to Maumee Bay State Park.
Site leveling needs: Some RV sites require adjustment for comfort. "Site Quality: 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. Some have beautiful trees that in peak fall color would be stunning. All camper pads are paved and long enough to accommodate large RVs," notes a reviewer at Van Buren State Park.
