Campgrounds in Salem, Ohio range from lakeside retreats to wooded state parks within a 30-mile radius. Most Salem area campgrounds operate seasonally, with the majority closing between October and April due to northeastern Ohio's cold winters. Tent camping sites typically cost $18-30 per night while full-hookup RV sites range from $30-45 depending on amenities and location.
What to Do
Fishing access: Mill Creek Camping at Berlin Lake Wildlife Area provides multiple shoreline fishing spots. As one camper notes, "We have our own private little beach which our dog loves. Which is another plus, we have a Rottie mix and they allow her in." The lake contains several species including bass and catfish.
Water recreation: Guilford Lake State Park Campground offers kayak and paddle boat rentals directly from the campground. A visitor shares, "We only spent one night there but we're really looking forward to returning with more time to stay so that we can take advantage of the kayak and paddle boat rentals."
Pioneer history: Beaver Creek State Park Campground features restored historical buildings from early settlement. A camper explains, "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)."
Human foosball: KOA Lake Milton Berlin Lake offers unique recreational activities beyond standard camping. A visitor observed, "There seemed to be A LOT. Including human Foosball, a train and some boats. We didn't use any amenities...But, there seemed to be a lot for families to do."
What Campers Like
Spacious waterfront sites: Mill Creek Camping earns praise for generous lakeside campsites. According to one review, "You have lots of space and don't feel crowed to the other people camping. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. We were fourtante that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked their during our stay."
Low-cost camping: Mill Creek Camping — Berlin Lake Wildlife Area maintains budget-friendly rates even for premium spots. One visitor highlighted, "Low cost for staying ($18 for a waterside, spacious site for up to 8 people, 2 tents at no additional costs)."
Clean facilities: West Branch State Park Campground maintains well-kept facilities despite heavy use. A camper noted, "Very clean individual showers" while another mentioned, "Probably the nicest pit toilets I have experienced."
Winter camping options: Salem-Lisbon Ohio KOA remains open year-round for off-season trips. A winter camper shared, "This was an awesome place for a winter trip! The tent sites were big and right on the lake. Everyone was so kind!"
What You Should Know
Varying site privacy: Raccoon Creek State Park offers both secluded and open sites. One camper advises, "If you are like me and crave privacy, avoid. The area is not wooded at all and most sites look right into the sites next to them."
Enforcement inconsistencies: Rules at some campgrounds may not be consistently enforced. A Mill Creek visitor reported, "There were fireworks (prohibited) and the campsite next to us played loud music but it was before quiet hours so we didn't mind. The loud music turned into a party with alcohol (prohibited) and the loud music continued way past quiet hours. No campground host or personnel did anything about the noise/party."
Water limitations: Beaver Creek State Park Campground has water restrictions visitors should prepare for. A camper warned, "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!"
Site terrain challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At West Branch State Park, a visitor shared, "We stayed here a week after we sold our home...The site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly amenities: West Branch State Park Campground provides thoughtful facilities for children. A visitor pointed out, "There was even a step stool for kids to be able to reach the sinks. A staffed store(9am-7pm on Sunday, 11am-7pm Monday–Thursday and 9 am–8:30 pm on Saturday) with basic supplies."
Water activities: Cutty's Sunset Camping Resort offers water recreation scaled for younger campers. One review mentioned, "Pool is only 3.5' deep. Mainly for kids, which is alright but wish that information was on there site."
Evening programs: Several campgrounds offer organized activities. At Cutty's, a camper appreciated the "Many crafts and things to do for the kids," while another noted the "Lots of activities, things for kids to do. Dog friendly."
Playground placement: Beaver Creek State Park provides camping sites strategically located near play areas. A parent shared, "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy."
Tips from RVers
Power hookups: Guilford Lake State Park Campground offers universal power access. As one RVer pointed out, "All the sites here are electric, but only electric."
Site selection: When booking at West Branch State Park, pay attention to site descriptions. One RVer advised, "Some are on slopes even the pads so make sure to bring stuff to level."
Water fill stations: Raccoon Creek State Park Campground has design issues with water connections. A visitor cautioned, "The water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full. This was okay for a short weekend but not good planning from who ever designed the park."
Access roads: Some campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle types. A Beaver Creek visitor warned, "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RV's/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!"
