Toledo area campgrounds offer both rustic and full-service options within a 30-mile radius of the city. The region's flat terrain and numerous waterways create ideal conditions for family camping throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Local campgrounds typically remain open from April through October, with many offering extended weekend availability in spring and fall.
What to do
Hiking trails: Oak Openings Preserve features the 15.5-mile Scout Trail loop accessible from White Oak Campground. "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," notes Cassandra C.
Swimming options: Wilderness Campground provides dedicated swimming and fishing areas. "It's nice the swimming hole and fishing pond are separated," says Miranda D. The campground's man-made swimming pond serves as a popular cooling spot during hot summer days.
Fishing opportunities: Many campers appreciate the fishing options at Big Sandy Campground, which features two lakes - one for swimming and another for fishing. The campground maintains these separate areas to enhance both activities, with the fishing lake stocked seasonally.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA maintains well-kept bathrooms and common areas. "Bathroom clean. Friendly people," reports Henry O. Many campers note the site cleanliness as a key factor in their positive experiences.
Shade coverage: The wooded nature of many Toledo-area campgrounds provides natural cooling. "Not far off route 80 you will find this cute campground that has ambience and great service. My favorite part is all the trees. Everyone is close together but feels cozy," writes Julie K. about Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA.
Free amenities: Several campgrounds offer complimentary features that enhance value. At White Oak Campground, "The firewood is free, which is amazing. There is also a dish washing station near the restrooms, with a huge sink and hot water," says Cassandra C.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many Toledo-area campgrounds operate from April through October. "Open 3/19/2020 - 10/31/2020" is the standard season for Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA, while Sterling State Park Campground runs "April 1 to November 6."
Additional fees: Some campgrounds charge unexpected costs. At Toledo East-Stony Ridge KOA, one camper noted: "We were charged $25 additional for my jeep since we were towing the trailer. We also were charged $10 because we arrived at 1:25 PM and check-in is at 2 PM."
Wildlife concerns: Bugs can be problematic in wooded areas. At White Oak Campground, "the heavily wooded areas can be quite mosquito-prone during summer months," and one camper advises: "Bring the deep woods Bug juice as standing water seemed pretty much the landscape at any point that dipped 3 feet or more."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Monroe-Toledo North KOA offers numerous planned events, especially during themed weekends. "The campground puts on a lot of activities for the kids... Most sites decorate and some sites go all out with haunted houses," shares Ryan M. about their Halloween events.
Budget considerations: Parents should weigh amenities against costs. "The cost of this place is so expensive for tent campers. I get if you're actually using resources with a camper but tent sites don't use a lot," notes Ryan M. about Monroe-Toledo North KOA.
Swimming safety: Family-friendly swimming areas are available but come with considerations. At Wilderness Campground, a visitor mentioned the "man-made pond which leaves a nasty smell on your swimming suit," while another noted the lake gets "a bit cold as we camped in the fall."
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: Harbortown RV Resort provides concrete pads suitable for larger vehicles. "All concrete roads and pads. Basketball court, sand volleyball, playground, dog run, batting cages and go karts within walking distance," reports Bill B., highlighting the convenience for RV campers.
Hookup considerations: Sterling State Park Campground offers various connection options. "Everything from back ins with only electrical to pull throughs with full hook-ups," notes Matthew F., making it suitable for different RV setups.
Parking logistics: Some sites present challenges for larger rigs. At Covered Wagon Camp Resort, campers report it's "difficult to back into spaces as road is narrow and very large poles in ground that keep you from doing a decent back in."
