West Branch State Park Campground offers cabin accommodations about 20 miles southeast of Stow, Ohio. The park sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation near the Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir in northeast Ohio. Winter cabin rentals remain available when many other facilities close for the season, providing year-round access in an area that experiences cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers.
What to do
Lakefront recreation: At West Branch State Park Campground, water activities dominate during warmer months. "We took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear," notes Andrea F., who adds that despite some site leveling challenges, the water access made their stay worthwhile.
Dog-friendly areas: Several campgrounds provide designated dog areas. "The dog park was a bonus... we camped right next to it," states a visitor at Woodside Lake Park. West Branch State Park also features a newer dog park that one reviewer describes as "pretty great, too! Good spot to camp for Cuyahoga Falls National Park."
Fishing opportunities: Countryside Campground provides access to Mogadore Reservoir for fishing. "A nice short walk takes you to Mogadore reservoir," explains Joe F., though he adds they had "no luck fishing from shore." Most cabin-equipped properties maintain fishing areas with varying seasonal restrictions.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent praise at Countryside Campground. Kathryn P. reports, "The bathrooms were clean, the showers were nice and the pool was well kept. Each site comes with a fire ring and picnic table both in good condition."
Swimming options: Woodside Lake Park offers a swimming pond with additional features. "The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals," explains James S., who visits regularly. He adds, "There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities. The place is clean and friendly with a pretty good selection at the camp store."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous site sizing at certain campgrounds. At Countryside Campground, Tommy K. notes, "The 9 tent sites are very large and spacious. It is mostly an established RV Park. The community was very kind." Several cabin locations offer more room between sites than others.
What you should know
Water quality varies: Water issues affect some campgrounds in the region. At Roundup Lake RV Resort, campers should expect central bathhouse facilities rather than private bathroom options. One reviewer notes this campground has "a sizable lake which boasts inflatables as well as enough room for self-propelled water crafts."
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals in the area operate from April through October. Some properties like West Branch State Park remain open year-round. Woodside Lake Park specifically operates from April 15 to October 31, with cabin rentals unavailable during winter months.
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential, particularly for lake-view accommodations. One reviewer at West Branch advises: "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" Sites with premium views or special amenities book earliest during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in family programming. "This place is AMAZING for families with kids! Tons of planned activities (about every hour) for everyone to enjoy. Huge pool, gem mine, mini golf, and homemade ice cream!" explains Sally C., though she cautions that heavy rain can cause site flooding.
Playground access: Multiple cabin locations feature playgrounds. Countryside Campground includes play areas that Joe F. describes as "a hit for our 8yr and under kids." The campground also organizes seasonal activities like "crafts and pumpkin decorating for kids."
Entertainment options: Consider properties with recreational amenities. At Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA, visitors find diverse options. "There were fun little raccoon hand prints all over though. The pool was so nice it wasn't too crowded and the view overlooking the 'lake' was so pretty," shares Traci F., who enjoyed visiting with friends.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: RVers should research site conditions before booking. At West Branch State Park, Andrea F. cautions: "Our 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." Request specific site information when booking cabin or RV sites.
Hookup quality: Power connections vary significantly between campgrounds. At American Wilderness Campground, RV sites include water and electric hookups with clean facilities. Greg A. notes the primitive camping areas require walking to reach restrooms and showers, adding "if you paid for a seasonal site, your experience would be much better as you would be close to the amenities."
Access considerations: Campground layout affects the cabin camping experience. One visitor to Jellystone Park warns: "If your staying at this park for just the weekend or stopping by, ensure to get a space numbered under 100. All the 100+ spots are actually across a busy residential street."
