Cabins at South Bass Island State Park Campground have water and electric service. Located on an island accessible by ferry, the campground features both lakefront and wooded sites. The cabins require advance reservations up to six months before arrival date. South Bass Island draws visitors primarily from May through October when the ferry service operates regularly.
What to do
Birding opportunities: East Harbor State Park offers excellent birding trails accessible from camping areas. "I enjoy this campground because there are lots of great spots to choose from. I love the ability to walk or bike to the beach. 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 and the ferries to take you to Kelley's Island and Put In Bay," notes Jaclyn B.
Historical exploration: South Bass Island State Park Campground sits on the grounds of the former Victory Hotel, once the largest wooden structure in the US. "This small park is laid out on the grounds of the former Victory Hotel, in it's heyday the largest wooden structure in the US," explains Blythe J. The island offers multiple historical sites within biking distance of the cabins.
Water activities: Crystal Rock Campground provides easy access to fishing spots on Lake Erie. "We drove down from MI for a quick weekend getaway. Nice and friendly staff with plenty of things to do in the area," shares Derrick J. The campground serves as a convenient base for anglers and boaters heading to Lake Erie.
What campers like
Convenient Cedar Point access: Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point cabins offer direct access to the amusement park. "Perfect for our visit to Cedar Point. We got there late at 9:00 pm and didn't have to check out until 8:00 pm the next day so our RV stayed plugged in to all day. The campground stay also included early entry passes into the park at 8:45 AM before the opening for regular entry at 10:00 am," reports Elise A.
Island isolation: Kelleys Island State Park Campground provides a more relaxed environment than other island options. "A busy family oriented campground with lots to do. Beaches, trails, biking, kayaking, and exploring the glacial grooves kept our family busy over our three night tent stay," says Sarah H. The island location creates separation from mainland traffic and noise.
Campground amenities: Cedarlane RV Resort offers extensive recreation facilities near their cabin rentals. "This campground has a little bit of everything. Rv parking, tent sites and several cabins to rent. Rates are decent. Has lots of stuff for kids to do. Pools are small and can be a little crowded during the summer on weekends. They have a great splash pad and wading pool for kids," notes Jeffrey C.
What you should know
Island transportation: When cabin camping on island properties, transportation planning is essential. "You have to take a ferry to the camp ground. Kelley's Island Ferry in Marblehead. 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. from Kelleys Island State Park Campground.
Weekend noise levels: South Bass Island's party atmosphere impacts the camping experience during peak season. "The ONLY quiet areas in the campgrounds on the weekends are the cliff tent areas since it is a party island and the young people camping in the interior areas seem to never go to bed," warns Stephen S. Mid-week cabin stays offer significantly quieter experiences.
Reservation timing: Lighthouse Point cabins require advance planning due to high demand. "Be sure to book as far in advance as possible as they fill up quick," recommends Korie H. Some premium cabins allow reservations up to five years in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Crystal Rock Campground offers play areas for children near cabin accommodations. "Everyone in the office is so polite and courteous, the grounds, office, bathrooms, and showers are spotless, tons of amenities and close to the highway but far enough away for a little hideaway of awesomeness. One of our families favorite campgrounds," shares Matt W.
Children's activities: Camp Sandusky provides structured recreation options for families. "Amenities for kids: pool, bunnies to feed, park, pedal cars to rent," notes Korinne K. The campground schedules regular family-oriented activities during summer months.
Swimming options: East Harbor State Park has beachfront access with gradual entry points suitable for children. "The campground is right on the shore of Lake Erie, there are a few restaurants nearby," says Michi P. The swimming area has sandy portions appropriate for younger swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Sandusky Bayshore KOA offers varying cabin types with different amenities. "The cabins are spacious with tons of outdoor space on each cabin lot. Fishing, boats, hot tubs, and lots of other activities on the grounds," reports Danielle G. Selecting sites away from the railroad tracks reduces noise issues.
Cabin furnishings: Milan Travel Park provides basic cabin amenities requiring supplemental supplies. "Clean small campground lots of room to walk. No dog run but plenty of area to walk your dog," notes A.H. Visitors should bring their own bedding, cooking equipment, and cleaning supplies as cabins provide only basic furnishings.
Off-season advantages: Tall Timbers Campground offers reduced rates and increased availability in shoulder seasons. "We really enjoy this campground and it is 20 min from home so that is always a plus. Nice and clean pond and beach very clean," reports Dawn S. Spring and fall cabin rentals often provide similar amenities at lower costs.
