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4.5

out of 5

67 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 12, 2020

Severe Sloping Site Won’t Keep Us From Having Fun

On first impression we were not impressed with this park. 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. Also our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. 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.

Once the dynamics of filling and setting up were done. We set off to explore the park. It had some really nice hiking trails. We also played some disc golf and went geocaching.

The camper beach was small but nice and clean. We also took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear.

The only thing we were unable to do is have a camp fire. The fire ring was pushed so far down in the mud we were unable to get good air flow to start a fire. No campfire no worries the bugs were bad anyway.

I will definitely come back but not to site 190. To much hassle.

Site190
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andrea F., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andrea F., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andrea F., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andrea F., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andrea F., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andrea F., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andrea F., July 12, 2020
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Reviewed Jul. 8, 2020

Great campground and lake

Camped at West Branch State Park for two nights while visiting Cuyahoga National Park (30-40min drive). Super spacious campground lots, great facilities and restrooms, and very private. Beautiful lake. If you have the opportunity to nab a lakefront spot camping you should take it.

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Josh D., July 8, 2020
Reviewed Jun. 29, 2020

Equine Camping

I loved to camp in the Horse camping area but this year they are allowing tent campers to camp there and it is just not safe.  There are multiple tents, sometimes in between horse campers.  There are children running around and since this in the back of the campground with no supervision, the campers are leaving garbage at the sites and in the fire pits. 

There are two camp hosts in that area and they do the best they can to educate people on horses but most do not understand they were even booked in the horse camp nor do they understand that horses can spook.

The hosts are trying to clean up after these bad campers and reporting them but there does not seem to be anything they can do. They would never allow this kind of thing to happen in the main campground.

If the campers are allowed to camp in the horse camp then the horse campers should be allowed in the main camp.  I sure would  like a full hook up with electricity and water for my horse trailer. 

Whats fair is fair.  Why even designate a section just for Horse campers if you are going to allow primitive campers to camp there. 

Last year there may have been one or two tents here and there through out the season but this year the tent campers outnumber the horse campers.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jun. 25, 2020

Nice and quiet!

Nice quiet and affordable tent sites. Ours was pretty private and spacious. Bath houses were fine, nothing exciting but they were clean. Tent sites were spacious. We had a great time!

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Apr. 16, 2020

It’s great!

My family has been going to this camp for years! It’s been updated a few times over the years, for the better! It has everything you need. Boat ramps for the lake in the campground, multiple shower houses, large and small campsites with full and primitive options! Tent and pull through RV sites as well. They have a few miles of hiking trails even horse trails! They do events through out the year. Our favorite Halloween! Camper decorate their sites and do trick or treating for the kids. They even do a haunted trail where volunteers set up to scare everyone! We had a spot on the trail for years lol

Reviewed Mar. 6, 2020

Camper friendly.

I camp at West Branch often. I have a kayak so I tend to choose the sites  that allow easy access to a put in. The shower house and bathrooms are always clean. There is a double sink outside of the shower house to do dishes in. The lake accommodates jet skis, power boats, fishing boats, kayaks and SUPs. There are no wake zones available. Family friendly, safe environment.

SiteVariety of campsites.
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Betsy D., March 6, 2020
Reviewed Sep. 13, 2019

Awesome state park with many amenities

Ranger Review: Morsel Spork at West Branch State Park

**Campground Review: **

This state park was very welcome after our first two unlucky Ohio state park experiences. We had no trouble pulling in at 3 pm on a Sunday after Labor Day with no reservations and snagging a very nice spot (Site 50 backs up to Kirwan Reservoir). There are two loops that are on Jay Lake where there is a beach; it was understandable that there weren’t any water view spots that had not been reserved here. A very quiet park that is well-maintained with lots of amenities. Even the rumbling of the nearby trains was on the quiet side! Nice playground with toy stocked sandpit, volleyball net, cheap laundry ($3 per load, wash and dry), dishwashing sinks, showers, and clean bathrooms. There was even a step stool for kids to be able to reach the sinks. A staffed store(9am-7pm on Sunday, 11am-7pm Monday– Thursday and 9 am– 8:30 pm on Saturday) with basic supplies and, of course, t-shirts and sweatshirts. Some of the sites have a slight grade so be cautious when selecting. Many trees that provide separation between sites. Several short hiking trails. A side note: I only saw one non-Ohio license plate besides ours in the entire park, almost like it is an Ohio secret (not anymore!)

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**Product Review: **

As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I have the opportunity to test products. At this campground, I tested the large  Morsel Spork from Outdoor Element. I have to admit that when I unpacked my box from Outdoor Elements, I was surprised at how LONG our morsel sporks were(we have other sporks that are much shorter so I was expecting these to be a similar size) but then I saw a photo of someone using it with their freeze-dried meal and it was an aha moment! No need to dirty another dish because this mighty spork can reach to the bottom of the pouch with no problem! These sporks are also sturdier than others we have used. The rubber scraper edge is a nice touch – would be great for getting the last delicious bits of meals from the freeze-dried meal pouches and I’m thinking also in glass or plastic containers. A very nice addition to our camping tools.

Site50
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Lee D., September 13, 2019
Reviewed Aug. 10, 2019

Great Site

My wife, 2 dogs, and I came with no reservation. They gave us a temporary tag to drive around and see what site we wanted. We ended up going to site 190 which had a decent amount of space to tent camp. The amenities were great. Clean shower and toilets in a well lit building.  There is also a dog park with a pond 2 minutes up the road which was great to wear the dogs out at. The only complaint I have is the site was a little close to our neighbor for our liking but we would go back!

Site190
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by AJ J., August 10, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 29, 2019

Perfect with a large P!

Showed up and wasn’t sure to expect but wow! We had a water view site and it’s perfect! We were at site 58. It was long and skinny so our camper near the road and the fire was 20 yards away. It was a perfect site for us. Some trees provides privacy between sites but also some sites were perfect for groups. Facilities were ideal and very well kept! The lake is busy and very peaceful at the same time. Beach was full so just know you won’t have it to yourself. Great campground!

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Scott M., July 29, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Scott M., July 29, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Scott M., July 29, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Scott M., July 29, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Scott M., July 29, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Scott M., July 29, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Scott M., July 29, 2019
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Reviewed Jul. 25, 2019

Beautiful views!

Pros: It was very easy and fast to check in. We stayed at site #14 and had such a nice view of the lake. There were many sites there that had lovely views. The shower houses were kept pretty clean. They had many shower houses and dumpsters around the campground. Our campsite was also clean upon arrival. There wasn't any trash left behind from previous campers.

Cons: We stayed for 2 nights. Our first night was loud. People were up yelling and listening to loud music until 11:30pm. Quiet time starts at 10:00pm and I dont believe that is strictly enforced. The second night was much better.

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Leighann K., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Leighann K., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Leighann K., July 25, 2019
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  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Leighann K., July 25, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2019

Wooded Waterside Sites

Make reservations! (6 months in advance).  Waterside sites fill up quickly! Check in is very easy as you pass the camp store on your way in. All campsites have a fire ring and picnic table.  West Branch has private, spacious, shady sites. We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days. The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers. Washers and dryers are also at the shower house. There is an outside sink to wash up dishes. Bring your boat or kayak. There are many inlets to explore or fish. There is a small beach at the campground but a larger one on the other side of the lake. There is a boat launch at the campground.  There are playgrounds for the children. An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend. There is a newer dog park near the intersection of Rock Spring  and Esworthy roads. There are many scenic hiking trails at West Branch. Bridal trails are located on Esworthy Rd. West Branch is our favorite campground and we make sure to visit every year.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Alisa G., July 25, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 21, 2019

Just a place to sleep...hot and stinky

We stayed in site 169 for just one night. We’ve been before and have enjoyed the two other sites we had. This site was chosen for convenience more than what site it was. The campground was packed with tents and campers. Our site was near a small beach so there was a lot of foot and bicycle traffic. You could tell there had been a lot rain as they threw down mulch to cover mud at our site. The drainage ditch stunk a bit and the mosquitoes were alive and hungry. On a happier note, there are great bathrooms with flush toilets, shower rooms, washer and dryers and outside sinks to wash your dishes. We walked around to check out other sites and the ones by the lake were very nice. We marked a few to remember for another time. You really need to know your sites or you may be very close to your neighbors.

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Shannon G., July 21, 2019
Reviewed Jun. 3, 2019

A ++

Always a great time at West Branch. The staff are very friendly and care a great deal about the quality of everyone's experience - they inspect and clean each site after the sites are vacated. The quiet hours are truly quiet, the bathrooms are very clean and fresh. Decided to rent a pontoon for the day - the boats were also very clean and well kept - they also have the option of an inner tube or jet skis if you want to rent those as well!

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Andy F., June 3, 2019
Reviewed Jun. 1, 2019

Camper friendly

You need to make reservations well in advance for the “primo” sites. The bathrooms are clean and include a laundry and sinks outside to wash your dishes. Campground hosts and staff are friendly and helpful. Sites are roomy and clean. Lots of variety. If you’re into hiking, disc golf, kayaking, fishing, equestrian pursuits, etc, this is the park for you.

SiteI have stayed at several different sites.
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Betsy D., June 1, 2019
Reviewed May. 31, 2019

It's Ohio

Nice campground! Some sites were very muddy, but too be expected in the early spring! Plenty of sites to choose from day of and ended up with a loop nearly to ourselves. Though the other people who did come in were partying loud into the early morning hours. Still overall pleasant experience. Expensive but has a fun little disc golf course which always makes my boyfriend happy!

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Monika L., May 31, 2019
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Monika L., May 31, 2019
Reviewed May. 20, 2019

Summer fun

This place is great for all your summer fun. There’s a beach for swimming, a disc golf course, lots of hiking & mountain bike trails as well as a huge lake for boating & kayaking. The campground in nice however the price is a little steep. It’s also good to book ahead!!

Reviewed Sep. 26, 2018

Great campground!

I have never been here before but were looking for a last minute place on Labor Day weekend and they happened to have a spot available. I am so glad they did! This is such a nice campground with so much to do. The sites are spacious, well maintained and clean. The facilities were all modern and clean as well as the beach area. This particular weekend they had guided hikes, movie night for the kids and an ice cream social. There was also a presentation for the kids showing all the animals and birds of the park. We are going back again in a few weeks with the dog.

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Greg A., September 26, 2018
Reviewed Sep. 22, 2018

A little Secret in Ohio

Beautiful area for a get away in Ohio. The beach is never too packed. You can take kayaks out and venture off around the shores.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Liv L., September 22, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Liv L., September 22, 2018
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2018

One of the best!!!

Very nice sites and very well maintained! The only real downside to the park is that the sites can be a bit tricky to get into with your camper and the pads can have a decent grade. The bath houses are big and clean with big sinks outside to do dishes. The lake is nice for boating and swimming.

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Caleb S., August 26, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Caleb S., August 26, 2018
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2018

Well kept campground with access to beach and dock

Each campsite in on a leveled cement pad and comes with a fire ring a picnic table. There is plenty of room around your site and you don't feel crowded. Most sites offer nice tree coverage for shade. The restrooms and showers are very clean and well taken care of. There is also a laundry facility and sink outside each one for washing dishes and water fountains throughout the park. There is a nice beachfront for swimming and then a dock that be reached from outside the park. A beautiful lake for kayaking or boating. The store has most camping needs in it and once a week they host an ice cream social. Has a very nice playground and a sand volleyball court. There are some hiking trails, but nothing extensive.

SiteSite 154
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jul. 31, 2018

Love it here!

I love the bathrooms and dish washing stations. Some sites are a little small but all in all a great place to camp. Love to fish here. Lots of room for boats. We stay here every year!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Courtney C., July 31, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2018

water, water everywhere

best barhrooms around! showers great. bathrooms great. lots of “lakefront” spots. dog park is pretty great, too! good spot to camp for cayahoga falls national park.

  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Kim B., July 12, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Kim B., July 12, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Kim B., July 12, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Kim B., July 12, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2018

Wonderful State Park

I really wish this place was back in Illinois. We stopped here on our way back from Virginia Beach. it was the most affordable stop we made and had amenities that we usually have to pay top dollar for. They had a fantastic shower house with individual locking rooms, bathrooms were very clean and they even had Laundry on site. The front desk was very helpful and gave us some ideas of things to do. I was surprised they had a decent camp store with affordable pricing. The night we arrived they had an Ice Cream social with huge cups overfilled which made the kids super happy and only $1. I believe this was set up by a volunteer committee which also had an outside movie planned for the evening. Nice quiet sites, (ours was lakeaIde vIew) which were wooded and very dark at night. They also had a modern play set area and volleyball which was utilized the entire visit. AND they had a beach with wonderful trails all through out. If I end up traveling East again, this will be on our list of stops for sure.

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  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of West Branch State Park Campground by Marc W., July 8, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 5, 2018

Great little state park

My family has camped at West Branch for years, and it makes for a great, quick getaway. Summers can be very crowded, it's always best after the kids go back to school and it cools off a bit. Great swimming, and Nelson Ledges is not to be missed!

Month of VisitAugust