Camping near Sandusky, OH

Sandusky, Ohio sits along Lake Erie's southern shore at an elevation of about 600 feet, with camping options influenced by the lake's weather patterns that can change rapidly throughout the day. The camping season typically runs April through October, with most campgrounds closing after the first frost. Water levels in Lake Erie can fluctuate up to 30 inches seasonally, affecting shoreline camping areas.

What to do

Fishing from shore: Several fishing spots within 10 minutes of East Harbor State Park Campground provide access to multiple fish species. "The camp store has all the necessities you may have forgotten. I enjoy walking to the pond at night and flashlight frogs. It is a great place for birding, fishing, boating and close to marblehead lighthouse," notes Jaclyn B.

Island exploration: Take a ferry to South Bass Island State Park Campground where you can rent bikes to tour the island. "The town is about 1.5 miles down the road and easy to get to via bicycle or island taxi. The slow ferry to the island (Miller) is the car ferry and it has free parking if you can leave your vehicle behind on the mainland," explains Stephen S.

Amusement park access: Some campgrounds offer shuttle services to Cedar Point amusement park. "Shuttle service to the gates (although it is walkable too) pool area, beach, paved sites, some have lake views," describes Korie H. about Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point.

What campers like

Private campsites: Campers appreciate sites with natural screening between neighbors. At Crystal Rock Campground, "Site D10 was massive, had a creek running alongside of it. And was hidden behind lots of trees," according to Brendan B. from East Harbor State Park.

Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas are available for families. "The campground has a beach and playground. Tent camping is in a separate area," says Erin H. about Kelleys Island State Park. Meanwhile, Ashley R. notes that Cedarlane RV Resort has "an adults only pool as well for those looking for a break from all the kids."

Waterfront views: Lakefront camping sites provide direct water access. "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," warns Stephen S. about South Bass Island State Park.

What you should know

Island transportation: When camping on islands, transportation planning is essential. "You have to take a ferry to the camp ground. 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. about Kelleys Island State Park Campground.

Seasonal crowds: Weekends during summer bring larger crowds and different atmosphere. "Mid week during the summer season is the best time for those who aren't into 24 hour partying and weren't able to snag a cliff side camp site," recommends Stephen S.

Noise factors: Some campgrounds have noise from nearby transportation. At Milan Travel Park, "This campground is right off of interstate 80, and couldn't be easier to get to! As close as it is, there isn't much road noise (depending on the location of your site)," notes Tracey S.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with activities specifically for children. At Sandusky Bayshore KOA, "They have a nice campstore, restrooms, playground and and pool. It's a good location for fishing, exploring Lake Erie or hitting Cedar Point," shares Gretchen R.

Beach considerations: Not all beaches are equal for children. Ashley R. notes about East Harbor State Park, "the beach was weird, there's a rock wall bordering the lake so you have to either climb down the low wall or walk to the designated opening in the wall but once in the water it felt like walking on play doh and the water was pretty shallow definitely a great area for kids."

Activity scheduling: Plan around weather and crowds. "The key is site selection at East Harbor...we happened to be in section C which was a newer section of the park. Section C was nice, though in hot sunny days there is very little shade to protect you," advises Mark S.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: Choose level sites to minimize setup time. "Concrete pads. Level! Full hookups were simple to use. The pool area was super clean. One of the thinks I liked best was there was a garbage can on every site!" explains Chuck E. about Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point.

Early bookings: The best RV sites require advance planning. "Be sure to book as far in advance as possible as they fill up quick," recommends Korie H., while Chase G. adds, "I would love to snag a premium site for our next trip but it may be difficult because they allow you to book up five years in advance!"

Utilities and hookups: Pay attention to what's included at each site. "Sites with full hookup are very tight," notes Joseph S. about Sandusky Bayshore KOA, while another camper at Milan Travel Park mentions, "Many level pull through sites. We were just passing through so the ability to not have to unhook was important to us."