West Branch State Park's equestrian camping area offers unique opportunities for both horse owners and tent campers seeking a rustic experience near Strongsville, Ohio. Located approximately 45 miles from Strongsville in Portage County, this 5,000-acre park features varied terrain throughout the glaciated Allegheny Plateau region. The park permits non-equestrian campers to use the horse camping area when space allows, creating a mixed-use environment during peak seasons.
What to do
Lakefront activities: West Branch State Park provides extensive shoreline access along its reservoir. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. There are many inlets to explore or fish," notes Alisa G. about West Branch State Park Campground.
Trail exploration: Beyond the equestrian trails, the park offers hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "There are many scenic hiking trails at West Branch. There are little hideaway trails everywhere, making for a fun adventure," mentions Jill T.
Winter sports: When snow falls, the trails transform for cold weather activities. The same paths used by horses during warmer months become available for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, extending the park's recreational season through winter months.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: The non-equestrian camping areas feature premium lakeside locations. "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hookups, but a HUGE lakefront site. Beach is right next door too," shares Rino S. about West Branch State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: The main campground areas maintain high sanitation standards. "Best bathrooms around! Showers great. Bathrooms great. Lots of 'lakefront' spots. Dog park is pretty great, too," says Kim B.
On-site amenities: Beyond basic facilities, the park offers unexpected conveniences. "There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days. The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers. Washers and dryers are also at the shower house," reports Alisa G.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for potentially uneven terrain when setting up camp. "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 her experience at Canton-East Sparta KOA.
Reservation requirements: Securing prime spots requires advance planning. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly," advises Alisa G.
Water station limitations: Be aware of infrastructure design issues that may affect your setup process. "The water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full," notes Andrea F.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: The park provides dedicated recreational areas for younger visitors. "Nice playground with toy stocked sandpit, volleyball net... There was even a step stool for kids to be able to reach the sinks," observes Lee D. about Ashland Fairgrounds.
Special events: Weekend programming adds structured activities for families. "An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," mentions Alisa G.
Alternative accommodations: For those seeking equestrian experiences without bringing their own horses, nearby options exist. "I have 4 kids and return at least 1x per year. Great family owned KOA. Horseback riding on site," shares Lisa D. about Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Utility access planning: The equestrian camping area lacks hookups, requiring self-sufficient setups. "No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. We're in a self contained RV so it's not a problem for us," explains Rino S.
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions affect camping quality throughout the year. "The only thing we were unable to do is have a camp fire. The fire ring was pushed so far down in the mud we were unable to get good air flow to start a fire," reports Andrea F.
Campground navigation: First-time visitors should be prepared for the check-in process. "Check in is very easy as you pass the camp store on your way in," notes Alisa G.
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