Camping near Williston, Ohio offers lakefront access to Lake Erie with numerous state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The area has a relatively flat terrain with an elevation of about 600 feet above sea level, creating easy access points for water activities and camping. Water levels in Lake Erie can fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach size and access at shoreline campsites.
What to do
Hiking trails and boardwalks: At Maumee Bay State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple trail systems through diverse ecosystems. "Many trails, some grassy and some paved are good for walking, running, and biking. A beautiful and extensive boardwalk constructed by the Ohio Civilian Conservation Corps is available only for foot traffic," notes Lee D.
Fishing and boating: Kelleys Island State Park Campground offers multiple water access points for anglers and boaters. "The campground has a little bay which works out great for having a small boat, jet-ski, and also a small swimming area," says Rebecca F. Fishing piers and boat launches are available at most parks.
Water activities: Swimming beaches vary in quality across different parks. One camper at Sterling State Park mentioned, "Sandy beach on Lake Erie is very nice," while others noted that some parks have rockier beaches requiring water shoes. Most parks maintain swimming areas from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Island exploration: Ferry access to the islands adds a unique dimension to camping trips. "The ferry ride it takes to access this state park island is well worth the time and fees! Fun beach side restaurants, dirt roads and pretty beaches," shares Erin H. about Kelleys Island State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: East Harbor State Park Campground offers spacious campsites with natural barriers. "Site D10 was massive, had a creek running alongside of it. And was hidden behind lots of trees," reports Brendan B. Many campers appreciate the thoughtful layout of sites.
Bathroom facilities: Clean facilities are consistently mentioned as a highlight. At South Bass Island State Park Campground, "The campground includes very clean flush toilets and even cleaner showers (no cost for the showers)," according to T S. Most parks maintain shower facilities that are cleaned daily.
Wildlife viewing: Birding opportunities abound throughout the region. "Last time I came here was in 2019. Words cannot describe how great this camp ground was. The wildlife in the area was abundant making hikes in the afternoon great especially near sunset when the deer in the area started to come out," shares Elijah G. about East Harbor State Park.
Stargazing: Island locations offer exceptional night sky viewing due to reduced light pollution. A Kelleys Island camper noted, "No city lights and being in the middle of the lake means lots of stars, the sounds of water and being so dark you can barely see."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: May flies can affect camping experiences in early summer. "First two nights were perfect but then the may flies hatched (in mid June) and covered everything," reports Kourtney D. from Sterling State Park. Plan accordingly if visiting during this time.
Ferry logistics: When planning glamping trips to island destinations like Kelleys or South Bass, factor in ferry costs and schedules. "The ferry ride it takes to access this state park island is well worth the time and fees!" notes one reviewer. Expect to pay approximately $100 round trip for a family and car to Kelleys Island.
Reservation timelines: Popular glamping sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. Crystal Rock Campground can accommodate last-minute bookings during less busy periods, but holiday weekends fill up months in advance. "We were packed in like sardines! There were tent sites right next to RV sites," noted Austin R. about a Memorial Day weekend.
Noise levels: Island campgrounds have varying noise profiles. "This made me reluctant to return to this campground in the summer, as beautiful as it is. I'd try it in mid-September or October, but never summer again," advises Megan M. about South Bass Island during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Not all beaches are created equal. "There is a rocky beach (shoes NECESSARY) which is actually a nice swimming area if you aren't looking for sand under your feet or blanket," notes Stephen S. about South Bass Island. Pack appropriate footwear for rocky shorelines.
Kid-friendly amenities: Harbortown RV Resort offers numerous recreational options. "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!" shares Noel L. Call ahead to confirm which amenities are operational during your visit.
Evening activities: Organized programming varies by park. "I enjoy walking to the pond at night and flashlight frogs," says Jaclyn B. about East Harbor State Park. Most parks offer ranger-led programs during summer months.
Bug preparation: Multiple campers mention insects as a consideration. "Bugs were persistent but the smoke from the fire seemed to keep them at bay," notes Wendi R. Pack insect repellent and consider screens for glamping accommodations during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Full-service sites are available at several parks. "Sites 1-11 and 21-29 have full hookups (water, sewer, electric)," explains Lee D. about Maumee Bay State Park. Electric-only sites are more common and typically cost $5-10 less per night.
Leveling considerations: Site terrain varies significantly between parks. At South Bass Island, "The flattest RV sites with fair to good locations are Sites 57 and 44 (although even these will require a little leveling)," advises T S. Contact parks directly for specific site recommendations based on your RV size.
Dump station access: Most parks maintain clean dump stations. "2 dump stations are well graded so everything drains well," notes Timothy G. about Kelleys Island. During busy checkout periods, expect waits of 15-20 minutes.
Transportation options: For island glamping locations, consider transportation alternatives. "If you chose to leave your car on the mainland (free parking there) & pack in there are multiple sources for golf cart & bike rentals," explains Blythe J. about South Bass Island State Park. Golf cart rentals average $60-100 per day depending on season.
