Put-in-Bay camping options extend beyond the main island to nearby mainland locations along Lake Erie. The area sits at approximately 590 feet above sea level with limestone bedrock formations that create the distinctive cliff camping spots at several parks. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak season, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures that many campers prefer for less crowded experiences.
What to do
Explore birding trails: East Harbor State Park Campground offers extensive birding opportunities along walking paths and wetland areas. "The campground is right on the shore of Lake Erie... 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," notes Jaclyn B.
Visit Cedar Point: Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point provides convenient access to one of Ohio's premier attractions. "Super nice place. Pricey but worth it. Concrete level sites. Friendly staff and can walk to the Roller Coasters. Lots to do in the area," shares Bill B. The campground provides early access passes to the park before general admission.
Kayak in protected coves: South Bass Island State Park Campground features a small rocky beach that's ideal for launching watercraft. "The park has a rocky beach (shoes NECESSARY) which is actually a nice swimming area if you aren't looking for sand under your feet or blanket. That beach area is a great area though to launch a kayak or sailboard to use in the cove," explains Stephen S.
What campers like
Seasonal timing: Many experienced campers recommend visiting outside peak summer months. "We camp here at the beginning and end of the season where the bars are less crowded and the campground isn't as booked," says a visitor to South Bass Island State Park Campground. The park typically operates from April 1 to October 1.
Waterfront tent sites: The tent sites along the lakeside cliffs provide unmatched camping experiences. "About twenty of the tent spots overlook the cliffs with great views of the water. Sites 97 and 114 sit on the edge of the cliff. This makes these two spots really unique," reports T S., though they caution these sites aren't appropriate for families with small children.
Island transportation options: Getting around the island is part of the experience. "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," advises Lauri J. from Kelleys Island State Park Campground.
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Budget time for ferry travel, especially when returning. "If you do take your vehicle over note that the wait time to bring it back on a Sunday while usually 2 to 3 hours can also be up to 6 hours from when you get in line (beware the Miller ferry stops running about 8pm, ie: near sunset)," warns Stephen S. from South Bass Island.
Weather considerations: Lake Erie creates distinctive weather patterns that affect camping. "Bring plenty of bug spray in the summer, there are lots of bugs that come off the lake. Also make sure you bring jackets and blankets, even in the summer it can get pretty cool in the evening," advises Kayla H. from Maumee Bay State Park Campground.
Cell service variations: Mobile coverage varies significantly across the islands. "Camp office now had WiFi in/near the office building. Loved being able to hear the waves on the beach even though our spot wasn't on the beach," notes Mary S. from Kelleys Island, while other campers mention spotty coverage with phones sometimes connecting to Canadian towers.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Not all glamping near Put-in-Bay is suitable for young children. "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," advises Stephen S., highlighting the need to research site locations carefully before booking.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "The campground has a little bay which works out great for having a small boat, jet-ski, and also a small swimming area," mentions Sarah H. from Kelleys Island State Park, adding that bicycling is easy around the island.
Entertainment options: Crystal Rock Campground provides varied activities for younger campers. "The owners and employees were so amazingly sweet and helpful. Tom went out of his way to make extra fun activities for the little kiddos. Our daughter really loved the sandbox, and the playground was great! We even did a little gem mining," shares Crystal J.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: For RVers visiting island campgrounds, certain sites offer better experiences. "The flattest RV sites with fair to good locations are Sites 57 and 44 (although even these will require a little leveling)," advises T S. from South Bass Island, noting that these sites provide the best balance of level ground and decent location.
Hookup considerations: Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point provides full-service sites convenient to attractions. "We got there late at 9:00 pm and didn't have to check out until 8:00 pm the next day so our RV stayed plugged in to all day. The campground stay also included early entry passes into the park," reports Elise A., highlighting the extended checkout times that benefit RVers.
Alternative mainland options: For easier access without ferry concerns, Milan Travel Park offers convenient stopover camping. "Many level pull through sites. We were just passing through so the ability to not have to unhook was important to us. Showers and bathrooms are very clean and up-to-date," notes Sue B., making this a practical alternative to island glamping.
