Camping near Tallmadge, Ohio offers access to both the sprawling Cuyahoga Valley woodlands and the extensive Berlin Lake wildlife areas within a 30-minute drive. The region sits at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for campers to explore. Many campgrounds have terrain that can become challenging after rainfall, with several reviewers noting the need for leveling equipment at even the more developed sites.
What to Do
Kayaking at Berlin Lake: Mill Creek Camping at Berlin Lake Wildlife Area provides extensive paddling opportunities with minimal restrictions. "One of my favorite campgrounds visited this summer... Numerous fishing and open swimming opportunities (basically anywhere you want along the water)," notes Katie, adding that you can "continue to enjoy the water and nature after moving to the general public parking lot" even after checkout.
Dog park visits: Both Silver Springs Campground and Streetsboro KOA offer excellent dog amenities. "Very nice, quiet city campground. Fantastic dog park with a swimming beach for dogs only. Fun to watch them play even if you don't have a dog," says Kate W. about Silver Springs. The dog park is consistently mentioned as a highlight for pet owners camping in the area.
Exploring Christmas tree farms: The unique camping experience at Heritage Farms combines camping with a working tree farm. "It's hard to not give it any lower than 5 stars when you literally camp within a Christmas tree farm. It's a dream," shares Brady R. The farm provides wagons to help transport gear to campsites and offers beautiful sunset views across the property.
Winter activities: Unlike many Ohio campgrounds that close seasonally, some locations near Tallmadge remain open year-round. "Stayed during the winter so it was only me and another camper but it sure was pretty! There's 6 electrical sites and the rest are non-electric," reports Abby M. at Nimisila Reservoir, noting it's "only 30 minutes to the national park."
What Campers Like
Private shoreline access: Lakefront sites at West Branch State Park Campground allow direct water access. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," writes Katelyn P. The ability to launch directly from campsites is frequently praised by reviewers who appreciate not having to haul equipment to public launches.
Clean individual shower facilities: The shower house design at West Branch receives positive feedback. "Clean individual showers," mentions dan M. succinctly. Another camper praises the "nice bathroom with sinks is somewhat of a walk" at Silver Springs, noting the separate facilities available near the baseball fields.
Proximity to Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Many campers choose these locations specifically for park access. "We stayed here and visited Cuyahoga National Park - only about a 30 minute drive so it was a perfect spot," notes Rachel S. from Nimisila Reservoir. Gary G. adds that Silver Springs is a "Good base for Cuyahoga NP visit" offering a "bargain price for a site with electric hookups."
Non-crowded beaches: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas that don't get overcrowded. "Beautiful area for a getaway in Ohio. The beach is never too packed. You can take kayaks out and venture off around the shores," observes a West Branch visitor. The smaller, more intimate beaches are particularly appreciated by families wanting more control over their swimming environment.
What You Should Know
Limited water access at some campgrounds: Several sites have no water hookups or limited facilities. "Please do not make the mistake I did. There is no running water here. No showers, nothing to wash with or drink. You must bring in your water and bath when you get home," warns shelly H. about Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain affects many campgrounds in the area. "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," reports Andrea F. about her experience at West Branch State Park.
Cart-in camping requirements: At Heritage Farms, "You do have to carry your belongings into the campsites... The provided wagons and wheelbarrows make it easier," explains Brady R. These carry-in requirements can be challenging for those with mobility issues or extensive gear.
Limited primitive camping availability: While RV sites are plentiful, true primitive camping options require research. "This is a unique experience. Know going in that there aren't a lot of camping options inside the park boundaries," notes Dan G. about Cuyahoga Valley. The available primitive sites often fill quickly, especially during summer months.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground proximity: At Countryside Campground, "Playground was a hit for our 8yr and under kids," mentions Joe F. The campground's layout allows parents to monitor children easily from their sites. Another parent notes, "if you pick the right spots- you can keep an eye on the kids at the playground & riding bikes to/from the dock straight down the park road."
Kid-focused activities: Jellystone Park offers extensive programming for children. "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!" exclaims Sally C. The scheduled activities provide structure that many families appreciate during longer stays.
Spacious tent sites: For families needing room to spread out, Mill Creek offers ample space. "The 9 tent sites are very large and spacious," says Tommy K., who visited with "4 kids, the hound and my wife." He also mentions that you can "skateboard, scooter, or bike throughout the whole campground."
Fishing access for children: Multiple campgrounds offer easy fishing opportunities for younger anglers. "There were fun little raccoon hand prints all over though. The pool was so nice it wasn't too crowded and the view over looking the 'lake' was so pretty," shares Traci F. about the Streetsboro KOA, where fishing ponds are accessible for all ages.
Tips from RVers
Electrical site selection: At Nimisila Reservoir, "6 of those have electric. We stayed in site 22 with electric. We were surrounded by pine trees along the banks of a 800-acre reservoir," reports Shannon G. The limited number of electric sites means advance planning is essential.
Dump station access: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Dump station free for registered campers, $10 for ALL others. Be warned, cameras are in use," advises Jeff P. about Nimisila Reservoir. This information helps RVers plan their arrival and departure tank levels appropriately.
Site width considerations: Several reviewers mention tight spacing at certain campgrounds. "The main problem was very hard to level and soft grass they don't have a well compacted area for your tt/rv," notes Jeffrey L. about Silver Springs, while Scott B. observes at Cutty's that "the spots are soooo small. You open your door and there is a picnic table and then the next camper."
Fill station design issues: Infrastructure details matter to RVers with larger tanks. "First 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. This was okay for a short weekend but not good planning from who ever designed the park," cautions Andrea F. about West Branch State Park.
