Best Campgrounds near Vermilion, OH

Camping near Vermilion, Ohio, connects easily to major highways, making weekend trips convenient. Sandusky sits close by, giving campers quick access to Lake Erie's shoreline. Maumee Bay State Park Campground has well-kept sites and modern bathhouses with showers. The wooded campsites at Findley State Park Campground attract hikers who like the shade during summer months. Deer and raccoons commonly wander through these camping areas, so keep your food secured in containers or your vehicle. Most wildlife problems happen when campers leave coolers or trash out overnight. The roads to both parks stay in good condition year-round, though some secondary campground roads close during winter. You'll need permits for fishing and some other activities, and rangers sometimes implement fire bans during dry weather. Book your site ahead of time if you're camping between May and September when spots fill quickly. These parks limit stays to 14 consecutive days, which works for most vacations. Following the posted rules keeps rangers happy and helps everyone have a better time camping.

Best Camping Sites Near Vermilion, Ohio (86)

    1. Findley State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Wellington, OH
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 647-0534

    $25 - $50 / night

    "Beware, the sites are close to these roads and quite shallow, but because each road dead ends in a cul de sac, traffic is very light, even when the campground is full, as when we visited."

    "Lots of walking trails, lots of nature. Once off my favorite local ohio parks."

    2. East Harbor State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Kelleys Island, OH
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 734-4424

    "A great campground in Ohio. So clean and so many things to do. Campsites are close together but they do honor quiet hours. Great trail around the lake and a fun and challenging disc golf course."

    "this is probably my favorite park in Ohio . it’s always clean people are so friendly and the lake is just beautiful !"

    3. Sandusky-Bayshore KOA

    17 Reviews
    Sandusky, OH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 625-1495

    "Nice site in Northern Ohio!"

    "This isn't a place to get away from it all. It's behind a car dealership and next to a fairly busy railroad. But they do offer amenities to make your stay easier.
     "

    4. Kelleys Island State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Kelleys Island, OH
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 746-2546

    "Nice site on an island in Northern Ohio."

    "The campsites are located close to one another, and there is little tree cover between the sites which could potentially make for a less enjoyable experience at busier times of the year."

    5. Timber Ridge Campgrounds

    3 Reviews
    Vermilion, OH
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 965-4113

    "You’re close to your neighbor but doesn’t feel like it. Quiet but also great for families. Looks like a lot of seasonal visitors."

    6. American Wilderness Campground

    16 Reviews
    Grafton, OH
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 926-3700

    $35 - $69 / night

    "We had nice woods behind us, neighbors to the right and vacancy on the left (jackpot)."

    "Drive in sites are set back & not near the lake. They have back in & drive through sites. There is a small store. It is close to Cleveland & has Good Sam discount."

    7. Riverview RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Vermilion, OH
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (209) 606-0848

    "If you need a pump out it 20$ for emergency situations."

    "Great park in a great location with great people."

    8. Vermilion Valley Ohio Turnpike RV Lot

    2 Reviews
    Amherst, OH
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (440) 234-2081

    "Dump station as you exit. Gas and convenience items are extra helpful. Safe environment to snooze overnight."

    "Pulled in to the RV parking area around 9:45 pm, there was one other vehicle there. 3 more came and parked before midnight. Felt completely safe and not crowded by the campers on either side."

    9. Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point

    14 Reviews
    Sandusky, OH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (419) 627-2350

    $150 - $500 / night

    "Great location! Situated adjacent to Iron Vengeance roller coaster and across the parking lot from the water park. You can see the coasters and hear the screams from your rig!"

    "Not really camping but staying in your camper next to an amazing amusement park."

    10. Middle Ridge/Vermilion Valley Rest Area

    2 Reviews
    Amherst, OH
    6 miles
    Website

    "This is a test area on the Ohio Turnpike. Rv owners can self pay $20 to stay overnight. Quiet area away from the semis and common parking lot, but super close still to the plaza."

    "The location was in an suburban area."

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Recent Reviews near Vermilion, OH

387 Reviews of 86 Vermilion Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    East Harbor State Park Campground

    Nice hiking, camp sites do not have a lake view, but the trails do

    Huge campground, sites close, no showers, lots of activities. Only a few sites have water .

  • Daniel G.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Inland Acres

    Great place to camp!

    I had a great time at this location. It was clean, had everything that was needed and was a perfect location near the lake. I'll be sure to stay here again in the future!

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    East Harbor State Park Campground

    Beautiful but Buzzy

    I booked one night here for the amenities on a cross-country trip.

    The laundry, showers, and water fill stations were convenient/ well-maintained.

    I gave only 4-star however 2 reasons.

    1. for the 5hr lawn mowing caravan that started at 7am in every direction. I’m not even sure what they were mowing since the lawns looked freshly cut. It was obnoxious! And
    2. not enough signage. For example, I had to ask for directions to the laundry rooms and then they are quarter only with no change machine. I had to make a trip back to the office for change.

    Overall, a nice spot with all the amenities you could need. Plenty of room and nice multi-use trail to the beach was great!

  • Adam A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Terrace Lakes Campground

    Family Fun and Friendly

    They have a nice big fishing lake they have a nice swimming Lake and other ponds to fish in a very relaxing and fun place to go

  • K
    Aug. 27, 2025

    American Wilderness Campground

    American Wilderness

    We had a good experience the place was clean and nice the amenities were great the staff was helpful and the laundry room was clean as well as bathrooms and showers.

  • Travis O.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    American Wilderness Campground

    Property is so relaxing and nice

    We had a nice time the place was clean and the people were nice as in other campers we had a good time we went to the pavilion to a get together.

  • Joe B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    East Harbor State Park Campground

    Nice park

    Stayed 2 nights. The bathrooms are decent, laundry facility is good and the sites are a good size. There are trails and beaches in the park. I found a disc golf course in the park, and I really enjoyed the layout’s layout. The main issue is the mosquitoes, on every tee pad I was swarmed by at least 50 mosquitoes. It was by far the most mosquitoes I’ve ever seen in one area. I was warned, so I sprayed before going. It helped, but they still buzzed around your head.

  • Steven V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Rvino - Camp Hiyo

    Nice spot

    Nice park, two fenced dog parks. Bathrooms were clean.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Bayfront Resort

    Very high-end almost hotel feel

    The bad, lots are small the good very nice well kept place. Has really good views of the lake and cider point. The staff were nice. The only problem was I don’t have a boat or jet ski to take advantage of there private boat ramp. Overall the fam had a good time.


Guide to Vermilion

Camping near Vermilion, Ohio, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the trails: Many campgrounds, like Mohican State Park Campground, have great hiking and biking trails. One visitor mentioned, "There are plenty of trails nearby to hike," making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Visit the beach: At Maumee Bay State Park Campground, you can enjoy a large beach area. A camper noted, "There is a large beach as well," which is great for swimming and relaxing by the water.
  • Check out local attractions: Campers love the proximity to Cedar Point Amusement Park when staying at East Harbor State Park Campground. One review said, "Park on the lake and close to many amenities including Cedar Point Amusement Park."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Mohican State Park Campground mentioned, "Restrooms and showers clean and sanitary," which is a big plus for families.
  • Spacious sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of sites at Maumee Bay State Park Campground. One review highlighted, "The sites were spacious, flat, and fairly private."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds, like Findley State Park Campground, are known for being family-friendly. A camper shared, "No party people very family friendly," making it a great choice for those with kids.

What you should know:

  • Busy seasons: Campgrounds can get crowded during peak seasons. A reviewer at East Harbor State Park Campground noted, "Sites are very tightly packed," especially during the summer months.
  • Limited WiFi: If you're planning to stream movies, be aware that WiFi might not be strong. A visitor at Mohican State Park Campground mentioned, "WiFi is not strong, so don't plan on streaming a movie in the evening."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially at campgrounds like Punderson State Park Campground. A camper warned, "Be sure to keep all food in cars or bring your bear cans," as raccoons and other animals may be curious.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the right site: Look for sites that are spacious and have amenities nearby. A camper at Findley State Park Campground said, "Amazing trails including bike trails for beginners up to advanced," which is great for families with kids of all ages.
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to bring bikes and outdoor games. One visitor at Maumee Bay State Park Campground mentioned, "Don't forget your bikes for this campsite! There are miles of paved bike paths."
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food and drinks on hand can keep everyone happy. A camper at Silver Springs Campground noted, "Everyone is very nice here," which can help create a friendly atmosphere for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site dimensions: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Punderson State Park Campground advised, "Make sure you check pictures of the sites to see if they will accommodate your rig/tent."
  • Be prepared for limited hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A camper at Findley State Park Campground mentioned, "It is not full hook up in most spots."
  • Bring extra power cords: If your site has a slope, you might need a longer power cord. A visitor at Silver Springs Campground noted, "The outlets are at the top of a gentle slope," which can be tricky for some RVs.

Camping near Vermilion, Ohio, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in Vermilion, Ohio?

Vermilion offers several camping options in the surrounding area. Middle Ridge/Vermilion Valley Rest Area provides convenient overnight RV parking along the Ohio Turnpike for $20, with access to restaurants and clean facilities. For those seeking more traditional camping, Riverview RV Park is located directly in Vermilion with standard amenities. Within a short drive, you'll find additional options like Timber Ridge Campgrounds near Amherst and several state parks that offer more extensive facilities and recreational opportunities.

Are there full hookup camping options near Vermilion, Ohio?

Yes, there are several full hookup camping options near Vermilion. East Harbor State Park Campground offers well-maintained sites with hookups and is known for its cleanliness and amenities. The park features beautiful lake views and numerous recreational activities. Wooded Acres Campground provides another option with full hookups in a wooded setting, offering plenty of activities and a paved bike trail adjacent to the property. Both locations are within reasonable driving distance from Vermilion and provide the convenience of electricity, water, and sewer connections.

What are the best times of year to go camping in Vermilion, Ohio?

The ideal camping season in Vermilion runs from late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer (June-August) offers the warmest temperatures for enjoying Lake Erie and water activities, but can be busier, especially at locations like Sandusky-Bayshore KOA. Early fall is particularly pleasant with comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration. Findley State Park Campground, less than an hour away, offers a quiet wooded retreat with walking trails that are especially scenic in autumn. Consider avoiding early spring as weather can be unpredictable with lingering cold and rain.