Perry, Ohio tent camping sites feature a mix of elevated platforms, lean-tos, and clearings on Christmas tree farms. Situated between Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga Valley, most sites require quarter-mile to half-mile walks from parking areas. Early spring through fall provides prime camping conditions with temperatures ranging from 40-80°F depending on the season.
What to do
Bird watching: The West Woods offers exceptional bird watching opportunities with various species visible throughout the day. "TONS OF BIRDS you will hear them all day long and see all sorts of different kinds," notes camper Zachary A. about The West Woods.
Fishing: Pack fishing gear when visiting Headwaters Park. "There are a few ponds on the property, complete with fishing docs, that are stocked with bluegill and small man fish. Have at it!" recommends Brannon M. about Big Creek Park.
Wildlife spotting: Keep binoculars handy for watching diverse wildlife, particularly at lakefront sites. "Able to watch Eagles soaring over Lake Erie" is a highlight for many visitors, and Penitentiary Glen offers additional wildlife viewing. "The second night had lots of coyotes around, which is cool but can be dangerous if not careful," warns camper Ky G.
What campers like
Raised platforms: Elevated tent pads provide practical advantages during wet weather. "Tent pad is raised so even though it rained and the water streamed through the middle of camp, tent was fine," explains Zachary A. about The West Woods. This feature keeps gear dry during typical Ohio rainfall.
Unique settings: Heritage Farms offers camping within a working Christmas tree farm. "It's hard to not give it any lower than 5 stars when you literally camp within a Christmas tree farm. It's a dream," shares Brady R. Sites are scattered throughout the property with varying privacy levels.
Scenic sunsets: Lakefront and hilltop sites provide exceptional sunset viewing. "We had a perfect view of the sunset from the site. Sounds from the lake and birds," reports Jenna H. about camping at Lake Erie Bluffs, adding that "the site is enough away from the path that you have completely privacy."
What you should know
Ticks present: Check yourself and pets regularly when camping in the area. "We had two ticks on us relatively soon after getting there but didn't see any others all night. So be especially careful if you have pets!" warns Jenna H. about Lake Erie Bluffs.
Toilet locations: Most restroom facilities are portable toilets located near parking areas, not campsites. "Bathroom was a Port o potty but it was very well maintained and clean," notes Rebecca A. about Heritage Farms, while another camper adds "Porta johns were available, though not very close."
Pack light or bring help: The walk-in nature of sites requires planning. "Site is about a quarter mile from the parking lot so pack light, bring a wagon, and/or be ready for a work out," advises Zachary A. Heritage Farms provides wagons to assist campers: "The provided wagons and wheelbarrows make it easier."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some sites present natural hazards requiring supervision. "In near a slope which leads to the river, which the kids loved but younger kids might find dangerous," warns Zachary A. about The West Woods tent site B.
Space for activities: Penitentiary Glen Reservation provides ample room for children to explore. "Its like you have the forest to yourselves out here," notes Jillian E., though she cautions the walk to the site "was a bit more of a haul than expected" when camping with kids.
Gear transport planning: Multiple trips may be needed with children. "Our site was a little bit of a hike from the parking lot and it took a couple of trips to get everything to the site (along with the dog)," shares Danielle C. about Heritage Farms, noting that "the carts they provided helped."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most sites near Perry are tent-only, with few RV accommodations. Headwaters Park offers some of the only non-tent options, with limited cabin and glamping setups available instead of traditional RV sites.
Alternatives nearby: Pymatuning State Park offers more suitable RV camping approximately 40 miles east. Yeager's Hide-A-Way Campground provides seasonal RV camping options about 50 miles south of Perry for those requiring hookups.
Day use for RVers: Most parks welcome day visitors, allowing RVers to base at full-service campgrounds while exploring the parks. "The West Woods as a park is really nice with a nature center, hiking and bridle trails, just the campsite that was lacking," notes Jen L.
