Kohler-Andrae State Park sits on a sandy stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline where unique dune formations and pine forests create a distinctive ecosystem. The campground maintains 135 campsites, with 52 offering electrical hookups and several cabin options. Winter temperatures typically range from 10-35°F, while summer months average 60-85°F with moderate humidity from the lake effect.
What to do
Beach activities during peak season: Lake Michigan's shoreline offers swimming between Memorial Day and Labor Day when water temperatures reach their warmest points. "The large sandy beach spans the entire length of the park" at Harrington Beach State Park, which also features "plenty of trails, a quarry, and a historical element" according to Ross K.
Explore woodland trails: Hike through pine forests and along boardwalks crossing unique dune formations. "Hiking trails are great, especially the ones through the dunes" at Kohler-Andrae State Park, notes Elliot Q., who adds it's "definitely worth the stay" for nature enthusiasts.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line in Lake Michigan or inland waters. "We caught some large blue gill, a few crappie, perch and bass" at Kettle Moraine State Forest, explains Nicole T., who notes "it is a 'weedy' lake but when your fishing for certain fish, that's a good thing."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Cleveland feature well-spaced campsites. At Mauthe Lake Campground, "the sites are well separated for privacy" according to Charles M., who adds "the shower house is perfect for an end of the day washing."
Swimming access: Beach areas provide relief during summer months. "Beautiful state park right on Lake Michigan. Sunrises so, so beautiful" at Kohler-Andrae State Park, writes Kathie M., who appreciates that the "beach [is] very nice" and there's a "large picnicking day area."
Winter camping options: Several parks remain open year-round with limited facilities. "We stayed here for 4 days in late October. Site 112 is nice pull through" at High Cliff State Park, reports Nancy S., who found that "hiking trails are short but nice" and the "Lime kiln trail is difficult but so worth it."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most pet-friendly campgrounds in the Cleveland area require advance booking, especially during peak season. "If you plan to camp for a weekend, you must make a reservation way in advance" at Kohler-Andrae State Park, warns Shanon P., though midweek arrivals might find openings as "we didn't have a reservation and showed up on a Tuesday and camped for a few nights."
Facility variations: Bathroom and shower availability differs between campgrounds. "Bathrooms and shower facilities remain open seasonally at most parks. "Bathhouse very nice. Very nice nature center. Laundry facilities available" at Kohler-Andrae, according to Kathie M.
Water access considerations: Lake levels can impact beach access. "When we went to the lake level was up so high due to flooding that we weren't really able to enjoy the beach but normally there is plenty of coastline" at Harrington Beach State Park, notes J K., highlighting how conditions can change seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Scheffel's Hideaway Campground, Joyce S. appreciated the "nice playground and aesthetically pleasing" grounds, noting the site had its "own fire pit, and owners were extremely nice!"
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. "This park has everything! Trails, dunes, marshes, forests, and Lake Michigan" at Kohler-Andrae State Park, writes Kathie M., mentioning the "very nice nature center" for kids to explore.
Kid-friendly beaches: Shallow swimming areas work best for young children. Mauthe Lake offers a "nice beach/swimming area, bike path, and playground for the kids" according to Kaylyn C., who was impressed by "the most beautiful sunset over the lake and pines in July."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by campground. At Village Inn on the Lake, campers get access to "indoor saltwater pool and hot tub" with "pool restrooms with showers available for campers" according to Megan B., who noted it's "about 2 miles from Neshotah Beach."
Site selection strategies: Some campgrounds have better RV sites than others. "The RV sites are small.. if you have a neighbor with a slide out then you lose half of your green space" at Village Inn on the Lake, notes Amber C., though she appreciated that they "have a larger community grilling and firepit space."
Winter camping considerations: Several campgrounds accommodate cold-weather RVers with limited services. "The park campground is well kept as well as the facilities" at Harrington Beach State Park, writes Phillip B., though he cautions that pet-friendly areas may be limited as "the beach no longer exists as the lake has washed it away."
Legend
