Cabin camping around Put-in-Bay provides access to Lake Erie shorelines and island recreation through rustic and modern accommodations. South Bass Island experiences seasonal temperature ranges from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with significant lake-effect weather patterns throughout the year. Most cabin facilities operate primarily from May through October when ferry service to the islands is most reliable.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: East Harbor State Park Campground offers prime locations for fishing with cabin access about 30 minutes from ferry service to Put-in-Bay. "I enjoy this campground because there are lots of great spots to choose from... 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 one visitor.
Bird watching: Maumee Bay State Park Campground cabins provide shelter near premier bird habitats. "Bird houses and feeders are located throughout the park and especially in the spring, you can hear many varieties of birds chirping," notes one camper who appreciated the natural setting.
Swimming options: While cabin camping, take advantage of the swimming areas at Cedar Lane RV Resort which offers cabins with pool and splash pad access. "My daughter had fun doing the gem mining and playing in the pool and splash pad. They have an adults only pool as well for those looking for a break from all the kids," shared a recent guest.
Island exploration: After securing cabin accommodations, explore the Put-in-Bay area via bike or golf cart. A South Bass Island camper advised, "If you're good at trekking, everything on the island is walking distance, but if you can bring it a bike would make for much quicker trips. There are also a number of taxi services or golf cart rentals available."
What campers like
Cabin privacy: Many visitors appreciate the natural barriers between cabins at South Bass Island State Park Campground. "The most well kept, private, beautiful campground I've been to so far," reported one camper who particularly valued the separation between sites.
Waterfront locations: Cabins with lake views are highly sought after. "The sites along the cliff overlooking the lake have fabulous views but are ONLY for tents and one should NOT camp there with small kids," advised one South Bass Island camper, highlighting the fact that while some accommodations offer views, safety considerations exist.
Off-season quiet: For cabin campers seeking peace, timing matters. "We generally only camp here off-season now. The entire island is pretty rowdy during the summer so plan accordingly," recommended a Put-in-Bay visitor who preferred the quieter atmosphere outside peak season.
Clean facilities: Kelleys Island State Park Campground maintains cabin areas carefully. "The park is always clean and well kept. A lot of shaded sites and waterfront sites that are right on the water," noted a regular visitor who appreciated the maintenance standards.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. 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," according to a repeat visitor.
Cabin amenities vary significantly: Cabin accommodations range from rustic to modern. "Most campsites have at least one tree. The tent only area has lots of shade," observed a Kelleys Island visitor, highlighting the variable nature of site conditions.
Ferry logistics: When cabin camping on islands, plan for transportation logistics. "You have to take a ferry to the camp ground. Kelley's Island Ferry in Marblehead. It is a few miles to camp ground so if you are renting and don't bring a vehicle you will want to rent a golf cart," advised a Kelleys Island camper.
Seasonal weather challenges: East Harbor State Park Campground experiences significant weather variations. "A bit cold, still amazing," noted one early-season camper, while others mention that summer months bring humidity and insects.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Sandusky offers family-friendly cabin options with recreation areas. "They have a stellar playground area, I don't have kids but even I was drawn to wanting to play on it. Very pet friendly around here," observed one visitor who noted the appeal for younger campers.
Water recreation variety: Families appreciate water options beyond Lake Erie. "Last time I came here was in 2019. Words cannot describe how great this camp ground was. The wild life in the area was abundant making hikes in the afternoon great especially near sunset when the deer in the area started to come out," commented an East Harbor visitor.
Cabin selection for privacy: Choose cabin locations strategically when traveling with children. "Most sites are level with a bit of shade," noted a South Bass Island camper, emphasizing the importance of site selection when bringing children.
Scheduled activities: Some locations provide organized recreation. "They have a small convenience store on site that's reasonably priced. They have an adults only pool as well for those looking for a break from all the kids," shared a Cedar Lane camper, highlighting the balance of child and adult amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing for conversions: Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point offers cabin options with carefully designed spacing. "There were arborvitae trees between each site so plenty of privacy too. We had the cheapest sites and were very happy," shared a visitor who found the layout accommodating.
Utilities access: Many cabins include hookups similar to RV sites. "Full hookups, 50,30,20. Sewer. Water. Handicap sites too!" noted a Maumee Bay camper, highlighting the amenities available for those used to RV camping but seeking cabin accommodations.
Seasonal planning: Cabin availability follows seasonal patterns. A Kelleys Island visitor advised, "Even though this large campground was full when we were there on a weekend in September, we did not feel overcrowded. There were many empty campsites when we were there during the week in May."
