Camping around Perrysburg, Ohio offers a unique experience at the western edge of Lake Erie's shore, where the Oak Openings Region creates a rare ecosystem of oak savanna, wetlands, and sandy soil. The area sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring distinct seasonal changes. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, while summer camping sees average highs in the 80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking through diverse ecosystems: The Oak Openings region contains several trail networks, including the extensive boardwalk system at Maumee Bay. One visitor described it as "a bird watchers dream" with "miles of maintained trails and boardwalks for wildlife viewing." The nearby Sterling State Park offers "several lakes good for fishing or boating. Many trails, some grassy and some paved are good for walking, running, and biking."
Beach activities at Lake Erie: Despite being in Ohio, several campgrounds provide lake access. At East Harbor State Park, "you are close to the lake which I love. My only tip would be to bring plenty of bug spray in the summer, there are lots of bugs that come off the lake." The park also allows for "walking or biking to the beach."
Island exploration and water sports: For a unique camping excursion, South Bass Island offers views from limestone cliffs. "There is a rocky beach, boat rentals, and lots to do all over the island. There are shuttles from the campground into the main part of town," explains one camper. Sterling State Park provides "a boat ramp to put into Lake Erie" and "a smaller lake good for kayaking and fishing."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer shaded sites with natural privacy barriers. At Maumee Bay State Park, "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."
Clean facilities: The state parks maintain good shower and restroom facilities. According to a visitor at South Bass Island State Park, "The campground includes very clean flush toilets and even cleaner showers (no cost for the showers). Wood and ice are available at the check-in building." At Sterling State Park, visitors appreciate the "clean bathrooms and showers."
Year-round accessibility: While glamping in Perrysburg, Ohio largely focuses on summer activities, many campgrounds remain open year-round. One winter visitor to Van Buren State Park noted, "I came cross country skiing here in early January and it was absolutely amazing. It is cold but the terrain is simple for first time skiers."
What you should know
Weekend crowds vs. weekday calm: The popularity of glamping near Perrysburg means timing matters. At South Bass Island State Park, "for a quiet visit camp Monday thru Thursday; if you like crowds & parties reserve weekend time in advance." Similarly, at Harbortown RV Resort, "Halloween weekends, this place is packed - but empties out Sunday Afternoons."
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. "We stayed there in early May, we didn't have reservations so they had three sites open. We took the driest spot we could find. The ground was soft and marshy," reports one camper about Maumee Bay State Park. For East Harbor, a visitor recommends, "make sure you bring jackets and blankets, even in the summer it can get pretty cool in the evening."
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly. At South Bass Island, "Reservations can be made exactly 6 months in advance and only a few sites are kept open for walk-ins anymore." For the Cannaley Treehouse Village, booking well ahead is essential, particularly for weekend stays.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for kids: Campgrounds vary in child-friendliness. At Van Buren State Park, "if you have kids since there's a playground, swings, basketball, and tether court. No running water for bathrooms if that's important for you." Another reviewer mentioned, "Kids loved having the playground so close to the camper."
Safe swimming areas: Not all water access points are suitable for children. At Sterling State Park, a "beautiful and extensive boardwalk constructed by the Ohio Civilian Conservation Corps is available only for foot traffic." Meanwhile, South Bass Island has cliff-side sites that "are ONLY for tents and one should NOT camp there with small kids."
Family-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer structured recreation. At Harbortown RV Resort, "This campground has everything! Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool...If you have kids it is perfect!" Another camper noted they offer "Mother's day activities were great and were free!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: RV campers should research specific sites. At East Harbor State Park, "The key is site selection...Section C was nice, though in hot sunny days there is very little shade to protect you. The other sections of the park have tall shade trees that work out great." For Maumee Bay, "All camper pads are paved and long enough to accommodate large RVs."
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are limited at some parks. At Bluegrass Campground, "Larger pull thru sites, laundry, pool, firewood, lots of convenience." For Van Buren State Park, "All sites had electric and water, no full hookup. There were only drop toilets and no showers."
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies across campgrounds. At South Bass Island, "The flattest RV sites with fair to good locations are Sites 57 and 44 (although even these will require a little leveling)." Meanwhile, at Sterling State Park, "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."
