RV camping near Madison, Ohio offers travelers access to Lake Erie's southern shore region between Ashtabula and Geneva. Located in northeastern Ohio at approximately 680 feet elevation, Madison sits within a climate zone that experiences distinct seasonal changes, with camping generally limited to April through October due to cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area feature terrain that transitions from lakeshore flatlands to gentle hills with mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Farm at Grand River offers unique creekside camping with direct water access. "There aren't many places you can setup camp right by the river, but the Farm at Grand River has a great spot for those who love the relaxing sound of water nearby," notes a visitor.
Swimming lakes: Kool Lakes Family RV Park features both swimming and fishing lakes within the campground. According to one camper, "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."
Winery tours: Kenisee's Grand River Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby vineyards. A camper mentioned, "Stayed here for a girls weekend in Geneva at one of the tent sites... Located within a matter of minutes to several wineries in the area."
Mini-golf courses: Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake features an on-site mini-golf course popular with families. "We enjoyed their beautiful put-put course and ice cream stand," reports one visitor who appreciated the available activities despite pandemic restrictions.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Roundup Lake RV Resort provides ample room for larger camping setups. "Sites are close but shady and large enough for trailer and our truck," noted one RVer who visited in early October.
Quiet evenings: Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground maintains peaceful nighttime conditions even on busy weekends. "We stayed memorial weekend and it was quiet by 9 every night. They do a great job keeping the park looking beautiful," reported a satisfied camper.
Clean facilities: West Haven RV Park maintains well-kept restrooms according to multiple visitors. "Bath house was well appointed and spotless," mentioned one camper who appreciated the attention to cleanliness.
Farm animals: The Farm at Grand River offers unique interactions with livestock. "My 6 year old daughter lived her farm animal dream life for a week! My daughter loved the free movie nights under stars, running wild with the goats, and the play grounds and play houses kept her busy for hours!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake requires additional equipment for reliable connectivity. "Kenisee Lake RV Campground is a wonderful place to work from remotely if you have an external antenna to cellular internet," advises one digital nomad.
Winter closure: Most Madison area campgrounds shut down completely from late October through April. Roundup Lake RV Resort specifies a May 1 to October 31 season, while Chestnut Ridge operates from May 1 to October 1.
Tent camping options: Limited tent-only areas exist in what is primarily an RV-focused region. At Presque Isle Passage RV Park, "Lots of RVs, not many tents. Small section in the back of the campground for tents. Also the worst part is being so close to the gas station/truck stop. Very bright lights on all night."
Gate access systems: Security measures vary between campgrounds with some requiring access codes. At West Haven RV Park, "We told the office lady we would be back late at night, and she gave us a special passcode to the gate."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground offers extensive play areas. "Our family really enjoyed staying here, and our kids especially loved swimming and fishing in the lake," mentions one family that took advantage of the recreational opportunities.
Kid-friendly events: Kenisee's Grand River Campground schedules regular activities for children. A seasonal camper notes, "It's a great place with a lot of events and entertainment for family's. Multiple fishing ponds, Friday night bingo, bands, fishing tournament for kids, duck race, Christmas in July and many other activities."
Recreational water features: Roundup Lake RV Resort centers around a large lake with special amenities. "Campsites surround a sizable lake which boasts inflatables as well as enough room for self-propelled water crafts (i.e. kayaks, paddleboards, etc)."
Movie nights: The Farm at Grand River offers outdoor films during summer months. "My daughter loved the free movie nights under stars," commented a parent whose child enjoyed the entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake offers varying site privacy levels. "We really liked the back-in sites with water and electric hookups because they were larger and more private and wooded," advised one RVer who preferred these specific locations.
Dump station timing: Managing black water tanks requires planning due to limited facilities. At Roundup Lake, campers should consider off-peak times as one visitor noted the need for strategy at similar facilities in the region.
Spring arrival advantages: For longer-term stays, arriving early in the season provides better site options. A traveler at Thousand Trails Kenisee Lake mentioned, "This park is very large and has a park-like setting with 2 lakes. There is fishing on the lakes and the campground has rowboats available to use."
Firewood availability: Supply can be inconsistent at some campgrounds. At Roundup Lake RV Resort, one camper reported, "Only gave a 4 b/c they were out of wood and what wood they had was wet. We needed up buying charcoal to cook our burgers on."
