Several campgrounds near Paulding, Ohio offer glamping accommodations with varying amenities and activities. The region features flat terrain at approximately 800 feet elevation with numerous lakes and reservoirs. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall provide cooler camping conditions with occasional rainfall that campers should prepare for.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: At Pokagon State Park Campground, visitors can explore an extensive trail system connecting with a nearby nature preserve. "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc. Tons of picnic areas and pavilions," notes Amy K.
Beach activities with limitations: Some lakes in the region have water quality concerns. At Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, one visitor cautions: "The entire lake stinks of pig poop. All the air smells like poo. You feel like you are breathing feces when you approach the water." However, the park offers alternative activities including "a nice pool and splash pad" according to visitors.
Horseback riding options: Family-friendly horseback riding experiences are available near several glamping locations. "There are horse tours and a very nice Inn for the less 'natural' crowd," mentions Shelly S. at Pokagon State Park. Pony rides for younger children are also available at some locations, making this a unique activity option for families seeking glamping experiences near Paulding.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Glampers consistently praise the quality of bathroom facilities at campgrounds near Paulding. At Johnny Appleseed Campground, one visitor raved, "They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skylight at the sky...while you take a shower." Another camper noted the bathrooms are "locked with a code and very clean."
Private decks and outdoor spaces: Many glamping accommodations feature dedicated outdoor areas. At Sauder Village Campground, "The sites are sizable, level, and well maintained," according to BluePitMom O. These outdoor spaces often include fire rings positioned safely from structures and picnic tables for outdoor dining.
Seasonal activities and themed events: Campgrounds in the region frequently host special weekend activities. "This lake is notorious for having algae blooms that prohibit swimming," notes one Grand Lake St. Marys visitor, but the park compensates with "a nice pool and splash pad" plus scheduled programming. Sauder Village often has "theme weekends and special ticket pricing" according to Jocelyn C., providing alternative entertainment during non-swimming seasons.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. At Kil-So-Quah Recreation Area, "Electric sites are small and not private," but Sadye H. notes "Continuing down the road you begin to enter the woods which is non-electric sites with plenty of trees to make your weekend private."
Reservation timing: Many glamping sites require advance planning. One camper noted, "If you are planning a summer weekend you have to book wayyyyy in advance due to demand." Holiday weekends fill particularly quickly at premium glamping locations.
Weather considerations: The region experiences variable conditions that can impact camping plans. "We stopped here for a night on our cross-country trip, wish we had 2 nights because we had lots of thunderstorms," reports Anand about Pokagon State Park. Spring and fall campers should pack layers and rain gear for comfort.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads and kid-friendly water options: Several campgrounds offer alternative water play areas when lake swimming isn't ideal. "They had a playground and splash pad. The bathrooms were also a plus. They were very clean and we used the shower a couple times," reported Brittany S. about Sauder Village Campground.
Indoor alternatives for rainy days: The region offers several options when outdoor activities aren't possible. At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday, visitors can enjoy "a new pool and lazy river which is fantastic" according to Doug A., providing entertainment even during inclement weather.
Pet-friendly options: Many glamping sites accommodate four-legged family members. "There is a dog park for walking the dog but with so much driveway I just walk the dog around the park. They have several dog bag stations around the park to make clean up easy," reports Matt S. about Angola/Hogback Lake KOA.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup variations: Power capabilities differ between campgrounds. Johnny Appleseed Campground provides "electric hookups" and "fifty-amp hookups" but no thirty-amp options according to their amenities list, important information for RVers with specific power requirements.
Limited privacy at some locations: RV sites at certain campgrounds offer minimal separation between neighbors. "The pull through area is very cramped; more like a parking lot," notes Kim M. about Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, though the campground remains "quiet; family friendly; no golf carts all over."
Off-season considerations: Some RVers prefer visiting during quieter periods. At Harrison Lake State Park, "It is one of the only state parks in northwest Ohio, a beautiful little spot nestled in farmland of Ohio." While "Sites are crowded and close together" during peak season, shoulder season camping provides a more peaceful experience with fewer neighbors.
