West Branch State Park Campground offers several camping options near Stow, Ohio, including tent sites, RV spaces, and yurt accommodations across a 2,650-acre park. Campers often praise the waterfront sites that provide direct lake access for fishing and kayaking. The campground features clean individual shower facilities, separated from bathroom areas for privacy. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-35°F, with summer highs reaching 75-85°F. The park maintains shower facilities year-round, though some campers note certain sites have challenging slopes.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: West Branch State Park features multiple scenic trails for all skill levels. "There are many scenic hiking trails at West Branch. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers," notes Alisa G. about the recreational options.
Visit dog parks: Punderson State Park Campground maintains a designated dog area for pets to exercise off-leash. "The dog park is pretty great, too! Good spot to camp for cayahoga falls national park," shares Kim B. who appreciated the pet amenities during their stay.
Fish in multiple locations: Mill Creek Camping provides direct lake access with fishing opportunities throughout the property. "A very nice and clean campground with many access point to the lake. Our camp site was in close proximity to the restroom facilities. We were fourtante that our spot was right beside the lake and we could keep the boat docked their during our stay," reports Renee G.
Try winter camping: Punderson State Park remains open year-round for those seeking yurt camping near Stow during colder months. "Beautiful scenery, very large park, fishing, boat rentals, man made beach, loooong floating boardwalk, lots of trails, unique sites and tons of history," writes Daniel U., highlighting the variety of activities.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: West Branch State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots under tree cover. "West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," shares Alisa G.
Family-friendly activities: Woodside Lake Park provides organized recreational options for children and families. "We stay here a couple of times per year and every time it's a blast. The swimming pond has inflatables and boat rentals. There's good fishing, and typically lots of activities," James S. observes about the campground environment.
Lake access and views: Multiple campgrounds feature water access, particularly valued by reviewers. "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. Beach is right next door too! Great trails, clean facilities, no complaints," writes Rino S. about their West Branch experience.
Clean restroom facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom cleanliness as a highlight. "The bathrooms were clean, separate showers verizon works well here," notes Joe I. about West Branch State Park, where individual shower stalls provide privacy for campers.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires preparation. "We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches," warns Andrea F. about their West Branch experience.
Water quality differs by location: Some parks have challenging water systems. "I spent hundreds of dollars trying to filter and clean up the water to no avail. It damages everything," cautions Jerry L. about Woodside Lake Park's water supply in certain areas.
Reservation timing matters: Popular weekends fill quickly at all campgrounds. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. regarding West Branch State Park's reservation system.
Weather preparedness essential: Countryside Campground and other locations experience significant seasonal variations. "Due to cooler temps pool was closed. The small putt putt course was still open for kids to play," notes Joe F. about their fall experience, showing how amenities change seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Look for themed weekends: Family-oriented campgrounds often schedule special activities. "Overall Super Clean! Great activities for all ages with proper Covid19 precautions. The owners were super friendly and true cares about their campers and safety," reports Heather C. about Country Acres Campground.
Consider tent site locations: Some campgrounds have designated family-friendly areas. "We tent camped here. The sites are pretty far apart and you feel secluded but, at the same time, the bathrooms are close by. There is a lot of hiking and things to do around the area and even a playground for the kiddos," recommends Jenny K. about Punderson State Park.
Check recreation schedules: Many campgrounds offer supervised activities. "An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," mentions Alisa G. about the regular programming at West Branch State Park.
Verify swimming options: Water features vary significantly between properties. "The campground is large with a water park that has Ziplining and other great activities for the family," writes Linda R. about Clay's Resort Jellystone Park, noting its extensive water recreation.
Tips from RVers
Bring leveling equipment: Uneven sites are common throughout the area. "Very few full hookups. Rest of the sites only have 15-20 amp service. The lots are not even close to level. You will need a lot of blocks to get close to level. Saw one RV with auto levelers with his tire about foot off the ground," cautions Coy about Punderson State Park.
Check hookup specifications: Electrical service varies widely between campgrounds. "We were in a 29'TT, 3 kids, 2 dogs. Well kept smaller campground. Kids trick or treated and all campers were very friendly. Due to cooler temps pool was closed," reports Joe F. about Countryside Campground, noting the accommodations for their larger setup.
Consider proximity to attractions: Streetsboro-Cleveland SE KOA provides convenient access to regional points of interest. "We were in the area for medical visits in Cleveland. This spot was convenient and a great location to do a little sightseeing. Sites were gravel and level. We enjoyed full hookups," notes Sharon J. about the campground's practical location for travelers.
Verify seasonal availability: Operating dates differ significantly among area campgrounds offering yurt camping near Stow. "We chose this campground based on its proximity to Brandywine Falls, Cuyahoga falls and Chagrin falls. Very clean and well maintained," shares Heidi C. about Streetsboro KOA's location advantages.
