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Best Campgrounds near Erie, PA

286 Reviews

Campgrounds near Erie, Pennsylvania range from lakefront sites with beach access to inland facilities with family-friendly amenities. Sara's Campground sits at the entrance to Presque Isle, offering both tent and RV camping with direct access to Lake Erie beaches. Several established campgrounds including Lampe Marina, Erie KOA, and Sparrow Pond Family Campground provide a mix of accommodation types within 20 miles of downtown Erie. Most facilities offer electric hookups, water access, and basic amenities like showers and restrooms, while some also feature cabin rentals for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping.

The camping season in northwestern Pennsylvania typically runs from April through October, with most campgrounds closing during winter months. "We stayed here because it was fairly close to Presque Isle and the price was very reasonable for the area," noted one camper about Sparrow Pond Family Campground. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when lakefront sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds in the region offer both seasonal and overnight sites, with seasonal campers occupying a significant portion of some facilities. Cell service varies by location and provider, with some campgrounds reporting weak or spotty coverage, particularly those farther from urban areas. Weather conditions can change rapidly near Lake Erie, with strong winds sometimes affecting beachfront camping.

Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers visiting the Erie region. Sites with views of Lake Erie receive consistently positive reviews, with campers highlighting sunset views and beach proximity as key attractions. A reviewer described Sara's Campground as having "a great location that cannot be beat for ease of access to the beaches." Family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, fishing ponds, and swimming areas are common at larger campgrounds in the area. Some facilities cater primarily to RV campers with full hookups, while others maintain a balance between tent and RV sites. Proximity to Presque Isle State Park, which does not permit overnight camping within its boundaries, makes nearby private campgrounds particularly popular during summer months. Several campgrounds also provide easy access to regional bike trails, with the paved trail around Presque Isle being especially popular among campers.

Map showing campgrounds near Erie, PennsylvaniaExplore the Map

Detours Nearby

Big Oak Hill

Big Oak Hill

25 min away

Chautauqua Lake KOA

Chautauqua Lake KOA

42 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Erie, Pennsylvania (84)

    1. Sara's Campground

    16 Reviews
    Erie, PA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 833-4560

    "been going to erie now for 30 years and i can asure its sarah's not sara coyne the campground is on lake Erie just befoe the entrance to presque isle and below waldameer water and amusement park location"

    "Across the street from the Lake Erie beach. At the entrance of Presque Isle park. There is a a couple restaurants connected to the park and a little store for any needs you may have."

    2. Lampe Marina Campground

    13 Reviews
    Erie, PA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 454-5830

    $20 - $35 / night

    "Lake Erie has the best sunsets east of the Mississippi lots of things to do from fishing for walleye or perch or just out on a watercraft. This property is maintained by the Erie Port authority."

    "There is not a lot of shade at the sites so I would recommend taking a pop up tent if you're going to spend a lot of time outside around the campsite. Clean shower facilities."

    3. Erie KOA

    9 Reviews
    Girard, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 476-7706

    "This was our second trip to the Erie KOA for a soccer tournament in Edinboro. Our trip was almost ruined when our popup cable system failed and we could not use our camper."

    "Camped in the back behind the pond in popup camper. Nice and quite back there and close to the bath house and wash station."

    4. Sparrow Pond Family Campground

    6 Reviews
    Waterford, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 796-6777

    $40 - $72 / night

    "We stayed here because it was fairly close to Presque Isle and the price was very reasonable for the area. Overall, the campground was not as wooded as I would have liked."

    "THINGS I LIKED: 

    • Easy access to Lake Erie and Presque Isle State Park 

    • Clean and well-maintained property with lots of activities 

    • All of the RVs appeared well-maintained without trashy-looking"

    5. West haven rv park and campground

    5 Reviews
    Girard, PA
    9 miles
    +1 (814) 403-3243

    "Close to Lake Erie & Presque Isle."

    "The site was nice, kinda secluded but could still see RVs and people driving around. Was pretty quiet though. A little walk to the restroom and water, but not bad."

    6. Presque Isle Passage RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Girard, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 833-3272

    7. Follys End Campground

    4 Reviews
    Girard, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 474-5730

    $22 - $34 / night

    "It is a no frills, beautiful location on the river. Nice and quiet. Would stop here again!"

    "Gravel pad where I parked was nearly level. Bathroom was cleaned the day I used shower and hot water was good. Prices for the site was $31/night and this was early season."

    8. Uncle Johns Elk Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Lake City, PA
    17 miles
    +1 (814) 774-8672

    "The restrooms near the entrance are their main with showers and in the ladies room one stall."

    "Fantastic camp ground for anyone looking to rough it a bit, they have cabins and rv/tent sites located on Elk Creek great area for fishing and great people."

    9. Virginia's Beach Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Springfield, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 922-3261

    "Our site was right on Lake Erie. There was nothing except a drop of about 25' to the lake. There is lake access for swimming, boat launch and Jetsons etc. It was quiet and simple."

    "There is an entrance down a rocky driveway to get to the lakes sandy edge which is great to bring chairs down and watch the sunset."

    10. Family Affair

    3 Reviews
    North East, PA
    16 miles

    $35 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near Erie, PA

86 Photos of 84 Erie Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Erie, PA

286 Reviews of 84 Erie Campgrounds

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Village Green Campground

    Long-term RV

    This site is great if you’re moving in with your RV. I’m tent camping, and while there were tent sites (about 5), it wasn’t the atmosphere I generally go for.

    Positives- there are bathrooms, showers, and laundry. Right on Lake Erie. Fine for overnight.

    Cons- this is a live-in RV site in the outskirts of Ohio.

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Westfield-Lake Erie KOA

    Overnighter

    We only stayed for an overnighter on a long trip west. The restrooms and showers are some of the best we’ve seen during our trip. Very well maintained facilities and grounds and the staff are friendly and helpful. We were able to change our site for one that was more level without a problem. The only thing that might bother some people is the road noise. However we were able to sleep well despite it. There is also a dog “park”/fenced area.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Lake Erie State Park Campground

    Great overnight stop

    Stayed one night on a long drive.  Beautiful views of lake.  Amazing grassy fields right by campsites.  Full park but still quiet with good spacing between outer ring spots.

  • Donna A.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Lake Erie State Park Campground

    Great Campground

    Just returned from staying over the weekend at this campgound with my dog and had a great time. We stayed in a non-electric site in my campervan and it was perfect. There is comfortable space between each campsite in most cases plus lots of trees for shade. Although the campground was full, it was quiet since I like to retire early. We saw lots of wildlife (black squirrels, rabbits and birds). The restroom and showers were nice, they were clean and only a short walk from my campsite. My dog was excited to get lots of walks during the time we were there. The beach was not close to our campsite but I drove there before checking out and walked the dog again. It was a rocky walk along the sand but a beautiful area with a playground. There were, however, many large dead fish along the water line. I can't wait to return to Lake Erie State Park because I enjoyed it so much!

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 24, 2025

    Lake Erie State Park Campground

    Well maintained with beautiful views

    This campsite is very well maintained, with breathing room between sites. It was very quiet for most of my time. Neighbors got talked to for their music being on beyond 10pm (not by me).

    There are three women’s toilet stalls and three women’s shower stalls across the path from site A04. Same amount for men. I appreciated they were individual stalls. Bathrooms and showers are just okay but clean and stocked.

    Short walk from campsite to the lake. Try to see sunset!

    Tip: you can book a solo night day of online. Otherwise it’s two night minimum. There were plenty of spots available when I stayed on a Wednesday night.

  • Brian P.
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Lake Erie State Park Campground

    Beautiful, well maintained State Park!

    This campground is FANTASTIC! When you think State Park there is almost always a compromise, but not here. We stayed on site A23 for a week in mid-July. The campground was busy, but not over-crowded. The campground itself is well maintained and the shower houses are clean. There are tent and RV sites available, with 15/30/50 amp electric service. The water hookups are NOT at each site, but there is one CLOSE to each site, so you can run your house over, fill your tank, and disconnect. The playgrounds and picnic shelters(multiple of each) are in great condition and the views are EPIC! The staff working the office were kind and helpful, and the park ranger Tom stopped by to ask how our visit was. The campground is a GREAT jumping off point for the local area and all the conveniences you could need are within 15 minutes. We will be back again!

  • Fred R.
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Sun Retreats Geneva on the Lake

    2025 return home

    Update.. these kids on bikes all night driving right in front of karts at 11p.m. is out of control. Dust control is better in the back and the Pavillion is gone. It had the brightest light that over lit too many camp sites.

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Lampe Marina Campground

    Lampe camp, Erie, PA

    Very nice campgrounds on Presque Isle Bay. Quiet and well managed. Clean with laundry and full facilities. Close to entertainment

  • L
    Jul. 3, 2025

    Follys End Campground

    Great No Frills Camp!

    This place has an old time feel that me of good times past. The sites are generally spacious, and are gravel based. The driveway to the camp seemed to be recently paved. The owner is very friendly and is on site. Camp office was geared towards fishing but was very interesting. Bathrooms were clean and the grounds looked good. Was very quiet at night and generally even on the weekend. I have not seen prices this low before. Definitely will be back to try the trout fishing!

    Pet friendly, propane available, WiFi available near office, AT&T service good, Large stream runs along the property, and it was a nice hike up it!

Guide to Erie

Camping near Erie, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Many campgrounds have access to scenic trails. For example, at Minister Creek Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Easy access to hiking trails right from camp," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Pymatuning State Park Campground is a popular choice. A visitor noted, "Plenty of spots to go fishing and hang out by the lake."
  • Beach Access: Campgrounds like Lake Erie State Park Campground provide beach access. One camper shared, "There is a nice nature trail that you can take the dogs on and a little beach to go do some swimming."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Chapman State Park Campground highlighted, "Very clean restrooms. Fantastic lake for kayaking, fishing, swimming, etc."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. At Linesville Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The Tuttle Campground was enjoyable. It is a well-maintained park with big spacious spots."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Sara's Campground are known for their friendly vibe. One reviewer said, "Tried to stay beach side but it was too windy... Campsites were clean and had showers available."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Some campgrounds have weak cell reception. A camper at Pymatuning State Park Campground noted, "The only slight downside for us is weak T-mobile cell service."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Erie State Park Campground shared, "The campground was very crowded the night we were there."
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for rain, as some sites can get muddy. One camper at Evangola State Park Campground mentioned, "The tent area is a mud pit and sites were pretty tight in that field mud pit."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or nearby attractions. At Sara's Campground, a reviewer said, "Waldameer water world place is perfect for kids in the 5-12 range."
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have limited food options nearby. A camper at Pymatuning State Park Campground noted, "Not much in the way of grocery stores as the closest towns... are small."
  • Bring Outdoor Games: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games. One family at Chapman State Park Campground enjoyed the "several nice playgrounds."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Buckaloons mentioned, "The campsites are large and not crowded on top of each other."
  • Utilize Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with convenient dump stations. At Linesville Campground, a camper appreciated the "RV dump station and water fill up conveniently located in the center of the grounds."
  • Plan for Power Needs: Ensure your site has electric hookups if needed. A review for Pymatuning State Park Campground noted, "Quite a few of the sites are lakefront and of those a number are full hook up."

Camping around Erie, PA, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Erie, PA for families?

Oil Creek Family Campground offers excellent family amenities including a playground, maze, and catch-and-release fishing pond that keeps children entertained. The well-stocked camp store is convenient for forgotten essentials. Another great option is Evergreen Lake Park, which features a fishing pond and a separate swimming pond. The campground offers level sites with options for either shaded or open areas, making it suitable for different family preferences. It's conveniently located near Lake Erie, providing additional swimming and beach activities for families. Both campgrounds are well-maintained and provide the facilities families need for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Are there any free camping options near Erie, PA?

Free camping options near Erie are limited, but budget-conscious travelers have some alternatives. Pymatuning State Park Campground offers reasonably priced camping on the Pennsylvania-Ohio border with both electric and non-electric sites. While not free, it provides good value with access to excellent fishing opportunities. For those willing to drive a bit further, some areas in Allegheny National Forest allow dispersed camping at no cost, though you'll need to follow proper backcountry protocols. Always check with the local ranger district for current regulations before planning a free camping trip in the area, as rules can change seasonally and some areas may require permits even if they don't charge fees.

What campgrounds are closest to Waldameer Park in Erie?

Sara's Campground is ideally situated just before the entrance to Presque Isle and below Waldameer Water and Amusement Park, making it the closest camping option to Waldameer. The campground features gravel sites that help keep everything clean, though spaces can be tight. It offers both beach access across the street on Lake Erie and convenient amenities including on-site restaurants and a small store for essentials. Erie KOA is another option within reasonable driving distance of Waldameer Park, offering reservable sites with water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly accommodations for families planning to visit the amusement park.

Are there lakefront camping options on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania?

Lampe Marina Campground offers prime lakefront camping with spectacular Lake Erie sunset views. Maintained by the Erie Port Authority, this campground is perfect for fishing enthusiasts targeting walleye or perch, or for those who enjoy water recreation. Another excellent lakefront option is Brookside Beach Campground, which provides outstanding views of Lake Erie. While quieter in terms of organized activities, it's a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the waterfront scenery. Both locations offer the authentic Lake Erie experience with direct water access, though availability can be limited during peak summer months, so advance reservations are recommended.

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