8 Secluded Campgrounds Around Greater Cleveland You’ve Never Heard Of
By Nikki Rhoades|Updated on May 10, 2024(Originally published April 05, 2023)
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Greater Cleveland and the surrounding communities are ideal destinations if you’re looking to spend time in nature. Here, you’ll get to see gorgeous waterfalls, incredible sandstone walls, as well as open, grassy meadows that delight the eye and beckon adventure seekers.
While there are plenty of day trip destinations around Cleveland, it’s more challenging to find lovely places like these that provide overnight accommodations. When a Clevelander is dreaming of camping, you might be wondering where would they go. You’ll be delighted to learn that there are several campgrounds near Cleveland, Ohio. Some are even hidden in your favorite parks. Want to know more? Read on to learn about these camping spots near Cleveland.
Believe it or not, you can spend the night on an island without leaving the lovely state of Ohio. Kelleys Island, otherwise known as Lake Erie's Emerald Island, includes campsites that nature lovers simply can't resist. Peak season spans from April through October, offering you the opportunity to enjoy Ohio's loveliest months immersed in nature... without being too far away from running water. Discover more about these campgrounds near Cleveland, Ohio in this previous coverage.
2. Geneva State Park
Geneva State Park Campground, Geneva, OH 44041, USA
At 698 acres in size, visitors are never surprised to learn that there is much to discover at Geneva State Park. Freshwater marshes and enchanting beaches attract sun worshippers to this gorgeous park, and its lovely landscape has captured many hearts. Some have a hard time leaving after a day spent hiking! If you long for more time in this pretty place, you will adore a stay at the park’s campsite. You can rent a plot without electricity, with electricity, or even choose to stay in a cabin when you decide to go camping in Ohio at this state park.
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3. Mohican State Park
Mohican State Park, 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Mohican is a breath of fresh air in the best way possible. With 1,110 acres awaiting exploration, it seems that adventure is limitless in this state park. You can canoe down the Mohican River and hike through the charming Clear Fork Gorge. If you don’t want to take the trek back following your outdoor adventure camping in Cleveland. Ohio is an option too.
The only national park in the state is Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and its proximity to Greater Cleveland is an absolute blessing. This slice of paradise is tucked between Cleveland and Akron, and it encompasses roughly 51 square miles of breathtaking beauty. Aside from its stunning waterfalls and historic canalway, this park also features a campsite that visitors can’t get enough of. If you want the experience of tent camping near Cleveland, the tent-only sites are available from Memorial Day weekend through October 31. Learn more about why this is one of the best camping spots near Cleveland in this previous coverage.
Widely known as the closest campground to Cleveland, this rustic spot for camping in Ohio is perfect for nature lovers who wish to avoid traveling in the car for a long time. The on-site cabins are delightfully cozy, and regularly scheduled events like summertime hayrides are a fan favorite. Visitors can also rent tent sites or stay in their RV, depending on their camping preferences.
6. Clay's Park Resort
Clay's Resort Jellystone Park in North Lawrence, OH, 12951 Patterson St NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666, USA
Have you ever longed to stay overnight in a water park? While indoor waterpark resorts can be found in several parts of Ohio, there's nothing quite like its outdoor counterpart. Clay's Park Resort surrounds a stunning ten-acre lake, and it is abundant with summertime fun in the warmer months. You can relax on the beach or enjoy playing on the floating inflatables. You can also spend a day on the fishing lake when you stay at these campgrounds near Cleveland, Ohio.
7. Lake Erie Bluffs
Lake Erie Bluffs, 2901 Clark Rd, Perry, OH 44077, USA
The Lake Metroparks is a stunning park district just across county lines, and there is an abundance of beauty to discover within. Clevelanders adore the diversity within these parks, and they are close enough to home for spontaneous hiking trips. They are also an incredible place to camp overnight, particularly if you're looking for a primitive site and an option for camping in Cleveland, Ohio which is close to Lake Erie's shore.
8. Amish Country Lodging
Amish Country Lodging, 4365 OH-39, Millersburg, OH 44654, USA
Amish Country is an incredible place for a weekend trip, and there are many options in the area for overnight accommodations. However, the untamed countryside offers a cozy getaway for nature lovers eager to check out camping spots near Cleveland.
Nature is truly a treat here in Northeast Ohio, but it’s hard to feel connected to it when you aren’t immersed in all of its loveliness. At these unique and charming campgrounds near Cleveland, Ohio you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to another world. Want to add even more to your camping experience? Instead of pitching a tent, consider renting an RV through RV Share. Camping has never been easier!
Have you been to any of these camping spots near Cleveland? Let us know in the following comment section. And, if you’re looking for more outdoor adventures, check out these serene spots in nature around Cleveland too.
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More to Explore
Campgrounds Near Cleveland, Ohio
Marla S. |April 09, 2023
Where are some of the best spots to have one-of-a-kind camping in Ohio experiences?
Some of the best spots to have one-of-a-kind camping in Ohio experiences include staying at the following destinations within the state.
The Shoal Tents of Troy: If you've ever wanted to experience gliding along the water while you camp, head to this novel campground that's located in Treasure Island Park.
Waterfront Yurt Camping in Cortland: You and your family will wake up to scenic views from the comfort of a yurt based in Mosquito Lake State Park.
Waterfall campground in Warsaw: Head to Whispering Falls Campground in Coshocton County if you're seeking some time in nature that includes opportunities to hike, fish, and boat. Of course, you'll get to check out the local waterfall too.
Treehouse camping: Take about an hour and a half car ride from Cleveland to stay overnight in a unique and charming treehouse in Glenmont, Ohio.
Columbia Woodlands: You'll find tents and cabins in the 400-acre oasis that's surrounded by nature and near Cleveland.
Coastal Floating Homes by Lake Erie Vacation Rentals: When you and your family experience this unique type of camping, you'll wake up surrounded by 360-degree water views.
Sojourner's Lodge & Log Cabin Suites: This charming camping accommodation, located in Amish country, is only about an hour away from downtown Cleveland.
Take a look at these campgrounds near Cleveland, Ohio to find more of the best places to stay when you want some time in nature.