Orwell, Ohio offers a variety of pet-friendly camping destinations within a 25-mile radius. Located in Ashtabula County at approximately 960 feet elevation, the area experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Winter camping is limited as most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with water systems typically winterized by mid-October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pymatuning State Park Campground is known for excellent fishing. "Save that old loaf of bread so you can feed the carp. Look up to spot a bald eagle beautiful sunsets and sunrise's. Have to go at least 1time to this park. I will bet you that you will come back," shares Jim L.
Unique wildlife viewing: The spillway area provides unusual wildlife interactions. "We camped on the Ohio side of the lake but spent several hours on the Pennsylvania feeding the HUGE schools of carp at the spillway. Where else can grandparents buy stale bread and feed these 'Pig Fish'? The ducks do actually walk on the backs of the fish to battle for scraps of bread!" notes Ralph L.
Archery practice: Punderson State Park offers specialized recreational facilities. "The camp is beautiful. Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," explains Rebecca G.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Hidden Lakes Family Campground offers larger-than-average campsites. "We stayed here mid June on their premium lot, super large and right on fishing lake. We brought our canoe and enjoyed fishing and just cruising around. Lots are large and campers purposefully spaced out I presume. Quiet and peaceful stay," reports Joe F.
Lake activities: Water recreation options are plentiful. "We took out a paddle boat. They offer paddle boats, canoes, and rowboat to use for free," mentions Robert L. about MillBrook Resort.
Historical attractions: The region contains interesting historical sites. "Beautiful scenery, very large park, fishing, boat rentals, man made beach, loooong floating boardwalk, lots of trails, unique sites and tons of history. It was very fun walking around while learning some of the very old and somewhat creepy history," says Daniel U.
What you should know
Limited hiking: Some campgrounds have minimal trail networks. "Very little, if any cell service. Wish there were more hiking trails; unless you fish or boat, there isn't a lot to do," notes Mary S.
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly at many campgrounds. "The sites greatly very 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 a incline," advises Joe I.
Pet area limitations: Geneva State Park Campground requires planning for pet owners. "I didn't like that pets are not allowed in the non-pet area as that was where the playground and swimming beach was. Made it difficult to swim and play as a family since you can't leave dogs alone at the campsite," explains Jeani B.
Tips for camping with families
Book hilltop sites: Some campgrounds offer unique elevated camping spots. "Super loud campground. The closest area to camp to the National Park. Nice shaded tent sites but you'll have to haul your stuff uphill & then it's not too private," warns Renée C.
Farm animal interactions: The Farm at Grand River offers unique animal encounters. "My 6 year old daughter lived her farm animal dream life for a week! The hosts were so accommodating. My daughter loved the free movie nights under stars, running wild with the goats, and the play houses kept her busy for hours!" shares Hillz M.
Tent site selection: Families should research site features carefully. "I had originally gotten lot #81 but quickly got it switched to #83 because it was just waaaay better. Flatter ground and I was able to go deeper into the woods," recommends Zachary A.
Tips from RVers
Bring leveling equipment: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. "The lots are not even close the 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.
Electrical limitations: Older campgrounds may have limited power. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service," notes another camper about some local campgrounds.
Site numbers visibility: Some campgrounds lack reflective signage. "5 stars just for the Autumn visuals. 1 star for the fact that we got in after dark and ALL the numbers for the electric sites are posted in non-reflective lettering. We couldn't find our spot," mentions Lisa B. about navigating Pymatuning State Park.