9 Spectacular Spots in Ohio Where You Can Camp Right on the Lake

If you like to camp in Ohio, you might be surprised to find that there are some places in the Buckeye State where you can camp right along the lake. While we don't have traditional beaches here in our state, Lake Erie serves as Ohio's own special sort of ocean, with gorgeous views, crashing waves, and stunning sunsets. There's nothing like waking up to your favorite lake and building a campfire each evening along the shore. The following are nine spectacular spots in that are perfect for Ohio lake camping. These spots offer some of the best waterfront camping in Ohio.

1. Geneva State Park - Geneva

With a nearby lodge and deluxe cedar cabins, this family-favorite state park has several overnight accommodation options. But with such stunning views of Lake Erie, why not pitch a tent and enjoy a night or two of Ohio waterfront camping? Book your campsite through the ​​Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

2. Blue Water Campground - Grover Hill

While the famous Blue Hole in Castila is long gone, not many people are aware that Ohio is home to a family-owned and operated campground in Grover Hill that features a stunningly beautiful quarry. You can camp pretty close to the quarry. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. (There are also shower houses, a laundry facility, and a camp store for supplies and snacks.) Visit the ​​Blue Water Campground website for all the information you'll need to plan your stay and make a reservation.

3. Kelleys Island State Park - Kelleys Island

Perhaps one of the most beautiful and underrated campgrounds in Ohio is ​​Kelleys Island State Park. With stunning views of Lake Erie and ancient ruins to explore, this beautiful campground almost makes you forget you’re in Ohio. Both primitive and RV camping are permitted here, with 43 non-electric sites and 46 electric sites. (There are two Rent-A-Camp units and two yurts available as well.)

4. Clay's Resort Jellystone Park - North Lawrence

The cabins along the lake at Clay's Park Resort in Lawrence are "where comfort meets a starry night." The park sits on over 500 acres and is filled with rooms to make memories for the entire family. With numerous amenities like on-site dining, a playground, and a water park, this is one of the best campgrounds in Ohio that the whole family will enjoy!

5. Indian Lake State Park - Lakeview

At ​​Indian Lake State Park, the campground is nestled right along the water. In addition to easy lake access for boating, swimming, and fishing, several picnic spots, hiking trails, and playgrounds abound at this 800-acre state park. Camp by the water in Ohio by reserving your Indian Lake State Park campsite on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

6. Mosquito Lake State Park - Cortland

Mosquito Lake State Park offers two yurts available for rent from mid-April through October 31. Each features a large wooden deck with a view of the lake, two futon bunk beds, a small refrigerator, a microwave, a small table an outdoor grill, and a picnic table. To book a yurt, visit the ​​Mosquito Lake State Park web page.

7. The Riverside Campground - Hocking Hills

Managed by Hocking Hills Adventures, this little-known campground sits right along the banks of the Hocking River. Easy access to electric hook-ups at the Fun Center and canoeing, kayaking, and other fun river activities make for a great site. For more information, visit the ​​Hocking Hills Adventures website.

8. Lake Loramie State Park - Minster

This state park in northwest Ohio is somewhat of a hidden gem. With 120 electric sites (40 of these are electric premium sites), 15 non-electric sites, and several cedar cabins centered around the lake, you can have the perfect lakeside getaway here. This may be one of the best campgrounds in Ohio!

9. Kiser Lake State Park - Saint Paris

The atmosphere is relaxing, and the water from the 396-acre lake is refreshing at Kiser Lake State Park. You'll find 20 electric sites and 50 non-electric sites at this peaceful oasis. You can book a campsite at ​​Kiser Lake State Park through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

Have you ever experienced any of these sites for waterfront camping in Ohio? If so, we want to know what your experience was like! If you have other locations you enjoy for waterfront camping in Ohio, be sure to share them with us through our nomination page.

For more camping spots in Ohio, check out our previous article about 10 Camping Spots You’ll Only Find In Ohio Are Simply Perfect. And always make sure you have the right gear before you head out to your site.