Mary Jane Thurston State Park Campground

Only 30 minutes down the river from Independence Dam State Park, this park was markedly different. Because there was a two-night minimum reservation on weekends and we were just passing through, we decided to try and roll the dice and see if we could slide into a spot for just a night without a reservation. Alas, the only spots still available were walk-in tent sites which would not work for us. This park was laid out more like an RV park with the sites very close together and no privacy between them (Site 16 looked to be the best one for privacy). Except for the walk-in tent sites, electric and/or electric/water hookups were available. As we pulled in, the host immediately greeted us and was very friendly (she genuinely wanted to find us a spot). There is a marina/store close-by and the quaint town of Grand Rapids (which you could walk to if you wanted) had several shops and restaurants. We would have stayed here for the night if a site had been available, so make sure you make reservations if you are coming on a weekend (and can stay for two nights).

Decent campground on the Maumee River

We have a Xtra large 5th wheel and dualy truck. It can be tough to find comfortable campgrounds. My husband parked the 5th wheel fairly easily. Clean and simple campground. Super cute little playground for the kids very close. Right on the water!  A little buggy but that’s to be expected on the river! 

Beautiful View

This is a small campground no question! That being said we had one of our best camping experiences.  Our site was right along the Maumee River and our view was just breathtaking. We watching the seagulls play and catch food while great blue herons skimmed that water and fisherman were out fly fishing.  It was just a very peaceful setting.  

There are lots of bike trails as the towpath trail goes through the park and it even leads into the little town of Grand Rapids. A quaint town with lots of antiques store and boutique with a brewery and pizza shop.  ( the ice shop was closed for the season 🙁) 

The only odd thing was your potable water and dump station were located at the Marina about a 1/4 mile down the road.  Not a huge deal but a little inconvenient.  

The Verizon cell service was great as well. 

We will definitely go back to this park. 

A Hidden Gem

We stayed at site 8, enjoyed not having much of a crowd. View of the river was beautiful. Easy pull through access. 