Located east of Toledo, Rossford offers a range of tent camping options within a 30-minute drive. The area features sandy oak woodland ecosystems in the Oak Openings region and lakefront access along Lake Erie's western basin. Overnight temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, with typical July highs of 85°F dropping to 65°F after sunset.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Wiregrass Lake Metropark offers three secluded tent sites positioned around a fishable lake. "The lake offers great fishing opportunities and doubles as a nice spot to sit by the water, enjoy the local wildlife and relax," notes camper Joe C. Each site includes a raised gravel pad for tents, fire ring, and trash receptacle.
Hiking the Scout Trail: White Oak Campground provides direct access to the 15.5-mile Scout Trail loop. "I camped at this campground after completing the 15.5 mile Scout Trail loop (aka 'Hiking Trail' and Yellow trail) that runs through Oak Openings. I was able to park my car here in the morning, hop on the trail (which runs right through the campground), and return later in the day," shares Cassandra C.
Biking and beach access: Maumee Bay State Park Campground offers extensive paved paths perfect for cycling. "It is also an amazing place to ride bikes, everything is flat and there are also plenty of bike paths. You are also close to the lake which I love," explains Kayla H. Bike rentals are available on-site for those who don't bring their own.
Explore wetlands: Birdwatching opportunities abound in the park's diverse habitats. "This on a bay on the very western side of Lake Erie among a wildlife refuge and wilderness area. I came for the birding and wasn't disappointed," mentions Dan N. The 2-mile boardwalk through wetlands offers excellent wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Free firewood: White Oak Campground provides complimentary firewood, a rare perk. "The firewood is free, which is amazing. There is also a dish washing station near the restrooms, with a huge sink and hot water," notes Cassandra C. This amenity saves campers the typical $5-8 per bundle cost at other campgrounds.
Secluded sites: Wiregrass Lake Metropark offers privacy for those seeking a quieter experience. "There are only 3 camping spots around the lake so you're not packed in like sardines. The atmosphere is very calm, quiet, and relaxing," explains Joe C. The sites feature vegetative barriers for additional seclusion.
Well-spaced camping areas: At Maumee Bay, campsites provide adequate separation. "The sites are well maintained and a camp store is available for anything you might have forgot. Bundles of wood and bikes to rent as well. Shrubs and trees provide enough privacy from neighbors next door," reports Jess P.
Clean facilities: Independence Dam State Park Campground maintains exceptionally clean portable toilets. "These were the cleanest port a potties I have ever used. I was quite impressed with the bathrooms, for what they were," says Andy K. The campground stretches along the Maumee River with many sites offering river views.
What you should know
Security concerns: When camping at Wiregrass Lake, take precautions with valuables. "Unfortunately we woke up to someone's car window being smashed and looted when I took the children to use the bathroom in the morning. The ranger and police did not say they were surprised," warns Jacob N.
Site reservation cutoff time: Reservations at White Oak Campground must be made before staff leave for the day. "MUST RESERVE ONLINE BEFORE 4PM. There is no walk-up service, and online site goes down after employees go home at night," advises Lisa T.
Noise factors: Despite natural settings, some noise is unavoidable. "The one big drawback in my opinion is the fact that the two lane traffic road is within 50-100 yards of the campsite, so the sound of vehicle traffic is quite frequent, especially since this road appears to be a favorite of motorcyclists," mentions Andy K. regarding Independence Dam.
Bug preparation: Pack insect repellent, especially during summer months. "My only tip would be to bring plenty of bug spray in the summer, there are lots of bugs that come off the lake," suggests Kayla H. The wetland environments throughout the area support large mosquito populations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Tee Pee Family Campground features a pond with recreational equipment. "The pond was fantastic. Has a large inflatable slide and a dock that you can jump off of in the middle. Kids loved it," shares Bryatt S.
Sand dune exploration: White Oak Campground offers unique terrain features for children. "We loved the hiking, bike trails, playground at Mallard lake area, and the kids liked exploring the sand dune area," reports Kevin K.
Temperature planning: Pack appropriate clothing for evening temperature drops. "Even in the summer it can get pretty cool in the evening. Also make sure you bring jackets and blankets," advises Kayla H. Layer options are recommended even for summer camping trips.
Site selection for families: At Maumee Bay, certain sites offer better family setups. "Shrubs and trees provide enough privacy from neighbors next door and there is enough room on each site for a few tents," notes Jess P., making it suitable for family groups requiring multiple tents.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Maumee Bay State Park offers various connection options. "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. All camper pads are paved and long enough to accommodate large RVs," explains Lee D.
Full hookup sites: For those needing complete utility connections, specific sites at Maumee Bay provide full services. "Sites 1-11 and 21-29 have full hookups (water, sewer, electric)," notes Lee D. Reservations for these premium sites should be made well in advance.
Drainage considerations: Site selection can affect comfort during wet weather. "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 Jeffery R., suggesting spring campers should request elevated sites when possible.
Bathroom facilities: Shower availability can be limited during peak times. "Very clean, however, bathhouses are shared between two loops. Each bathhouse only has two shower stalls, which may necessitate a wait when the campground is full," advises Lee D.
