West Branch State Park and surrounding areas offer diverse glamping and camping options within 15 miles of Ravenna, Ohio. The terrain features rolling hills with elevations between 900-1200 feet, creating natural drainage that helps campsites remain usable even after rainfall. Most campgrounds maintain operating seasons from April through October, with select locations offering winterized facilities.
What to do
Kayak fishing opportunities: West Branch State Park Campground provides direct water access for fishing enthusiasts. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers," notes Alisa G. about the convenience of lakeside activities.
Disc golf courses: Punderson State Park Campground features recreational amenities beyond standard camping. "Opportunities for disc golf, archery range, canoeing/kayaking/row boats, swimming (no lifeguard) and golf," mentions Rebecca G., highlighting diverse activity options.
Catch and release fishing: Kool Lakes Family RV Park offers dedicated fishing lakes separate from swimming areas. One visitor reports, "Our kids age 4 and 8 fished from sun up Saturday to about noon and then sporadically after that throughout the day. That night we hunted large bull frogs. All catch and release."
Hiking trail access: Countryside Campground connects directly to regional trails. "The Buckeye trail connects to the footpath down to the reservoir," explains Tommy K., who visited with four children and appreciated the spacious tent sites close to water features.
What campers like
Private showers: Unlike the shared facilities mentioned in other reviews, West Branch State Park Campground offers individual shower facilities. "Clean individual showers," reports dan M., with other reviewers noting the well-maintained bathroom buildings throughout the park.
Swimming areas with inflatables: Lake Milton Berlin Lake KOA provides structured water recreation beyond basic swimming. "Kids absolutely loved swimming in the little lake and sliding/jumping off the inflatables," shares Kelly R., though noting that sites offer limited privacy.
Dog-friendly facilities: Countryside Campground includes designated pet areas. "Dog friendly! Lake Accessible. We stayed a few nights on Tent site 4 and had a blast!" according to Jessica R., who appreciated the campground's cleanliness and pet policies.
Site variety: Mill Creek Camping offers diverse camping experiences within one property. "A very nice and clean campground with many access point to the the lake. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. You have lots of space and don't feel crowed to the other people camping," explains Renee G.
What you should know
Uneven terrain challenges: Sites at many campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Punderson State Park Campground, "The lots are not even close to level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level. Saw one RV with auto levelers with his tire about foot off the ground," warns Coy, who noted electrical limitations at most sites.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, booking well in advance is essential. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. regarding West Branch State Park.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds face infrastructure challenges. At Ridge Ranch Campground, "The well water stinks...couldn't wash my hand in the sink. Only one shower stall in the one of 2 bathroom locations," reports Dawn W., though noting convenient turnpike access.
Late arrival procedures: When planning evening check-ins, confirm protocol. "We told the office lady we would be back late at night, and she gave us a special passcode to the gate," explains Ruby W. about Kool Lakes Family RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Countryside Campground offers structured play areas for children. "Playground was a hit for our 8yr and under kids. A nice short walk takes you to Mogadore reservoir," shares Joe F., who found the campground well-maintained despite rain during their stay.
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds near Ravenna host special activities during holiday weekends. "When we arrived the kids were trick or treating to each camp spot," observed Erin at Countryside Campground, noting the gravel sites and family-friendly atmosphere.
Games and activities: Woodside Lake Park maintains recreational facilities for children. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities," states James S., who visits multiple times annually.
Kid-friendly swimming: Mill Creek Camping features gradual-entry swimming areas. "A very nice and clean campground with many access point to the lake... there is plenty to keep you busy with it having a boating dock and then a volleyball court," notes Renee G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA offers varied site layouts for different needs. "We were in the area for medical visits in Cleveland. This spot was convenient and a great location to do a little sightseeing. Sites were gravel and level. We enjoyed full hookups," shares Sharon J.
Hook-up access: Woodside Lake Park provides complete utilities for longer stays. "Large campground with gravel sites. We had a 29'TT, 3 kids, 2 dogs. Well kept smaller campground," reports Joe F. about his experience at Countryside, noting the tight maneuvering required when arriving later in the day.
Water access for RVs: Mill Creek Camping accommodates boats near RV sites. "We were fortunate that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked their during our stay," notes Renee G. about the convenience of keeping watercraft at the campsite.
