Located near the Ohio-Michigan border, Swanton offers diverse camping options within 20-30 miles. The area's flat terrain features a mix of wooded sites and open fields, with elevations ranging from 650-700 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience 55-70°F daytime temperatures.
What to do
Hiking trails: Oak Openings Preserve near White Oak Campground offers a 15.5-mile Scout Trail loop for day hikes. "I camped at this campground after completing the 15.5 mile Scout Trail loop (aka 'Hiking Trail' and Yellow trail) that runs through Oak Openings. I was able to park my car here in the morning, hop on the trail (which runs right through the campground), and return later in the day," shares one camper.
Wildlife viewing: The Swanton area provides opportunities for bird watching and animal spotting. A visitor at Camp Lord Willing RV Park & Campground noted, "This is a very clean and beautiful campground. The employees are very friendly and helpful." Another camper mentioned enjoying "watching the Blue Heron if your patient and paying attention as they nest in the area don't be surprised if you see deer and other wildlife as well."
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer fishing and swimming options. At Big Sandy Campground, a returning visitor mentioned, "Nice sites, a great little lake to swim another area to fish. They had great fireworks and simple outdoor fun."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept amenities. At Harbortown RV Resort, a camper noted it's "The best, cleanest, well maintained, under control campground we've ever been to." Similarly, a visitor at Bluegrass Campground reported, "Really clean campground with friendly family atmosphere. Showers and bathrooms are cleaned regularly!!! And done beautifully."
Kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate the recreational options available. "This campground has everything! Go carts, playground, disc golf, pool, ext... Just a one night stay to visit A friend. If you have kids it is perfect! Staff was nice and very helpful," commented a visitor at Harbortown RV Resort.
Easy highway access: For travelers passing through, the Blue Heron Ohio Turnpike RV Lot provides convenient overnight stays. "Simplicity at its finest. Highway stop is open 24 hrs so you have food and bathrooms all night. Everything is bright, nice and clean and feels very safe. Free overnight stay allowed and for extra $20 you can get electricity (rows of hookups in the back of the parking lot)," noted a recent camper.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Swanton operate from April through October. Big Sandy Campground runs from April 22 to October 1, while Bluegrass Campground is open April to October.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. At Bluegrass Campground, a visitor observed, "Sites were crowded but had excellent tree coverage. Over half of the campground appeared to be residents who lived there full time." Another camper noted, "The campground is filled with mostly seasonal campers and the campsites are very close together."
Weather considerations: The area can experience rain that affects site conditions. One camper mentioned, "When it rains several campsites get very wet! There are a lot of trees so some of lots have no grass."
Tips for camping with families
Bring bikes: Many campgrounds offer paths perfect for cycling. At White Oak Campground, a visitor suggested, "You can ride your bikes down the paved road to mallard lake where most of the parks trailheads and multi use trail access lies."
Pack for swimming: Several campgrounds have swimming areas. "The kids said the lake was getting a little more fishy and less swim friendly but I wasn't in it this time to verify," noted a repeat visitor at Big Sandy Campground.
Consider holiday events: Some campgrounds host special activities during holidays. "We've been here a few times. Very close to our house just a nice little getaway. We enjoyed the Halloween weekends. We decorate big and enjoyed other decorations as well!" shared a camper at Detroit/Ann Arbor KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RV sites in the area require minimal leveling. At Military Park Camp Perry Lodging and RV Park, a camper noted, "All sites are angled & very easy to back into. No pull thru sites here, but trust me Super easy to back into."
Electric options: Most RV parks offer 50-amp service. "RV site is paved with electric hookup and water hook up on site. Waste dump on RV site as well. Very clean and maintained," commented a visitor at Military Park Camp Perry.
Consider the cost: RV camping prices vary throughout the region. One visitor at Big Sandy Campground commented, "Campgrounds looks very nice. Two beautiful lakes, nice wooded lots available but $40 for a primitive tent campsite is a bit much."
