Lake Camping Near Port Clinton, Ohio, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Port Clinton, Ohio and love being by the lake, we've got you covered. With over 149 options in the area that offer lakeside camping, you're sure to find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the water. Prices start as low as $18 per night, with an average price of $65 per night. Looking for the top campsites? Check out The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews), and Towpath Trail Peace Park (107 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly spaces, and toilets. And if you're into activities like horseback riding, hiking, or biking, you'll find plenty of options to keep you entertained. Start planning your lakeside camping adventure now!

97% (243)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Port Clinton, Ohio and love being by the lake, we've got you covered. With over 149 options in the area that offer lakeside camping, you're sure to find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the water. Prices start as low as $18 per night, with an average price of $65 per night. Looking for the top campsites? Check out The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), The Pleasant Valley Farm (191 reviews), and Towpath Trail Peace Park (107 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly spaces, and toilets. And if you're into activities like horseback riding, hiking, or biking, you'll find plenty of options to keep you entertained. Start planning your lakeside camping adventure now!

97% (243)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. SōLSTAY Lodging

82%

(25)

14mi from Port Clinton · 2 sites · RVs · Sandusky, OH

SōLSTAY is an ideal spot to discover the wonders of Sandusky, Lake Erie and Cedar Point. Nestled in a cozy, waterside setting with sweeping views of the lake! This property offers endless outdoor experiences—from boating, fishing and watersports right from our own marina setting and the thrill-seeking fun of Cedar Point to unwinding at sunset on our boardwalk or taking in the views from our elevated hot tub. Only a .5 mile drive to Cedar Point and just 5 minutes to downtown Sandusky, SōLSTAY is the perfect destination for an adventure of a lifetime. We DO NOT allow tent camping or car camping.

2. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%

(333)

36mi from Port Clinton · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Fostoria, OH

We bought this 125+ year old farm in 2010 with the hope of bringing it back to life. Overgrown and neglected, we have worked hard to make it a nice place for hiking, kayaking, fishing or any number of other activities. Peaceful and remote, the property has a beautiful brook that leads you to the South branch of the Portage river. Deer, turkey, geese, herons, mink and fox are just a few of our natural animal friends. Rusty the steer and his pony friends Lexi and Little Bits can be visited while they graze in the pasture. There are chickens and Brindle the barn kitty. We have the perfect place for dogs as well. We have four dogs that get along great with others and our fenced pond keeps them safe.

3. The Eco Camp | Oak Openings

100%

(26)

48mi from Port Clinton · 11 sites · Swanton, OH

Whether you are hiking the mile-long trails of Oak Openings, come kayaking on the Maumee river, go biking on the Wabash Cannonball, or you are arriving by car - The Eco Camp is your home in nature. Featuring luxurious and spacious tents for up to four persons, we provide almost everything you need for a worry-free stay. Each of our tents includes a comfortable queen size mattress, solar chargers for your phones and gadgets, and a charcoal grill - as well as lots of other goodies. Our 16-foot Lotus Belle tents even include a private toilet tent so you don't have to walk to the restrooms.All guests at The Eco Camp can enjoy the facilities of Bluegrass Campground, our host for the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Bluegrass Campground offers a camp store, swimming pond, catch-and-release fishing, arcades, and weekend entertainment.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

4. East Harbor State Park

88%

(4)

23 sites · Lakeside, Ohio

Wildlife, water sports, and wetlands await on the banks of Lake Erie.

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Potable water

Toilets

5. South Bass Island State Park

100%

(7)

24 sites · Put In Bay, Ohio

White cliffs and sparkling blue waters make for a warm invite from South Bass Island State Park. Try to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or painted turtle from your boat, or just listen to the waves lap against the stony shore of Lake Erie. Bring that license to catch some fresh fish, where a cleaning station makes dinner prep just a little less messy. Once you're ready to get your adventure on, seek out the glacial grooves near the camping area or ice skate or fish the frozen waters when the frost takes over. Located on the north side of the island, Put-in-Bay is only a short distance away, along with all the restaurants and shopping you could hope for.

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6. Tall Timbers Campground & Resort

2.6mi from Port Clinton · 4 sites · Port Clinton, OH

Discover the unique charm of Tall Timbers, a serene campground nestled in the tranquil woods near the picturesque shores of Lake Erie, renowned as the Walleye fishing capital of the world. With a diverse selection of 400 camping sites ranging from primitive options to permanent accommodations, we cater to every camper's needs. Our campground is equipped with a variety of amenities to enhance your stay, including wireless internet access, house rentals, and RV rentals. At Tall Timbers, you can enjoy our inviting man-made lake, a spacious pavilion, and three well-maintained public restrooms. Families will appreciate the children's playground, while our general store offers essentials like ice and firewood. Additional conveniences include laundry facilities, an outdoor movie theater, and fish cleaning stations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. We welcome dogs (excluding aggressive breeds), so feel free to bring your furry friends along—just remember to keep them leashed and clean up after them! Please note that each campsite accommodates one RV or one tent. Come and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Tall Timbers, where nature and comfort meet.

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Toilets

7. Cedar Point

13mi from Port Clinton · 447 sites · Sandusky, OH

Lighthouse Point stands out as one of the most picturesque campgrounds in the United States, having been recognized by Travel and Leisure Magazine as one of the 9 Most Beautiful Campgrounds. Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Erie, this campground offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families looking to create lasting memories. With 156 cottages and cabin rentals, alongside 145 RV campsites, Lighthouse Point is thoughtfully designed to cater to families. Our lakefront cottage rentals provide breathtaking panoramic views through expansive picture windows, while our inland cabins and deluxe ten-person cabins ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. For RV enthusiasts, our luxury sites come equipped with full hook-ups, including 50 premium patio sites that overlook the serene waters of Lake Erie. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including a refreshing swimming pool, a convenience store, and a range of planned activities that cater to all ages. Additionally, Lighthouse Point is conveniently located just steps away from the entrance of Cedar Point, one of the top amusement parks in the country. Staying at a Cedar Point Resort also grants you exclusive perks, such as Early Entry, allowing you to access the park one hour before it opens, along with other unique benefits that enhance your experience. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activities, nearby

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8. Middle Bass Island State Park

20 sites · Put In Bay, Ohio

Boaters, rejoice! One of the newest state parks in Ohio, Middle Bass Island State Park is rockin' a 190-slip marina just waiting for you to join in on the fun. Park your beauty of a watercraft in one of the seasonal or transient slips, then enjoy the chirp of migrating songbirds and the smell of fresh lakeside air. A mini-golf area and bicycle rental just ups the fun. Once you've boated around to your heart's content, consider checking out the historic Marblehead Lighthouse off S.R. 163, or cast a line on the fishing pier at the nearby Catawba Island State Park. Go on, we think it'll really float your boat.

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9. Kelleys Island State Park

100%

(3)

25 sites · Kelleys Island, Ohio

Get decked out...In a yurt...On an Island...In the middle of Lake Erie. Now where else can you say that?! At Kelley’s Island State Park, on what is known as Lake Erie’s Emerald Isle, you can have the adventure of your dreams. Take a ferry to arrive on this pristine island before setting in for your stay. Choose daytime activities such as hiking or mountain biking on dryland. If you prefer a bit of H2O, don’t hesitate to rent a kayak and hit the water! Boat rentals are found on the sandy beach, where you can also sit back with your book and chill out. Kelley’s Island State Park is where weekends are made.

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10. Maumee Bay State Park

100%

(6)

25 sites · Harbor View, Ohio

With fishing, golf, swimming, boating, and biking, there's fun for the whole family

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11. Van Buren State Park

100%

(8)

25 sites · Van Buren, Ohio

Frolfing, anyone? Van Buren State Park is the ideal spot to flick that wrist and beat your friends at yet another disc golfing tournament. Nestled among crops of soy, wheat, and corn, consider this a little farmland oasis for you and all your best buds. Channel that inner Legolas and go bow-hunting, or catch a wide variety of fish from carp to bluegill at Van Buren Lake. Motor boat it up or row around old-school on the waters of the lake, the choice is yours. With multiple horseback and hiking trails available as well, we're confident you'll love the generous serving of activities available for the campers here. Did we mention there's a butterfly gazebo and volleyball courts as well? Save yourself the trouble of contemplating, and just book it now. There's no way your frolfing team will resent you for it.

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12. Findley State Park

23 sites · Wellington, Ohio

Findley State Park's got a lot of wood, but don't have a dirty mind about it. White ash and black cherry forests create a scenic backdrop for this 838-acre refuge. For those interested in exploring the area, the abundance of paths make this park especially notable. Hike or bike 16 miles of trails, or decide to face the mountain biking challenge on Thorn Trail, which cuts sharp turns and weaves through wooded areas on a nine-mile loop. A smaller beach is good for some downtime, and the lakes welcome everything from motor boats to kayaks and canoes. Try your hand at disc golfing or fishing, Findley is your oyster!

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Public campgrounds near Port Clinton

88%

(4)

East Harbor Campground

6.6mi from Port Clinton · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in East Harbor State Park

100%

(7)

South Bass Island Campground

11mi from Port Clinton · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in South Bass Island State Park

Middle Bass Island Campground

13mi from Port Clinton · 20 sites · in Middle Bass Island State Park

100%

(3)

Kelleys Island Campground

14mi from Port Clinton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kelleys Island State Park

100%

(6)

Maumee Bay Campground

26mi from Port Clinton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Maumee Bay State Park

100%

(8)

Van Buren Campground

45mi from Port Clinton · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Van Buren State Park

Findley Campground

46mi from Port Clinton · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Findley State Park

Stories from the community

site #3 between the creek and the river. A short walk across the bridge.

N

Nina

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

We tent camped for four nights at Site 3 which was perfect for our needs. The river was bone dry but fishing in the pond was good! We also enjoyed exploring the trails Jay has cut out. Thanks for a nice stay : )

J

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Jay is a very good host and was very flexible with us. The drive into the sites is interesting since you have to drive through his grass. If it is rainy I would recommend 4/all wheel drive. The area was great! Sites were secluded in a tree dense area and around 25 minuets away is the large town of Findlay. Plenty of hikes and parks around as well! Ultimately it was a great stay, and I would definitely come back!

Natalie

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Lovely quiet and serene camping place. Rustic for sure but pleasurable and friendly, helpful owner and helpers.

Mark

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Is a great place to go, and Jay is a very friendly person. Great paths to walk and very peaceful at night.

D

Daniel

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Another great adventure at Rusty’s! This is our second time camping there this year and it certainly won’t be our last.

E

Eden

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Jay was incredibly friendly and took the time to show us the land and introduce us to his lovely animals.

J

Jack

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Wonderful property, beautiful sunrise. Very peaceful and quiet. Jay was a remarkably gracious host.

L

Lizz

September 2025

17 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

We loved staying at Rusty's Retreat. There were a lot of camp site options that all felt private. The hosts were very friendly and helpful. We loved learning a bit about the farm and Jay's plans for it.

A

Aubriana

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

site number 1 was beautiful. it was a good spot to relax and the girls loved hanging out in the creek.

C

Christy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

The property is BEAUTIFUL! And our host was very kind!

Natalie

August 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

We had a wonderful time at Rusty’s! 🐾 Our group of four adults, 2 silly (and sometimes loud) little girls, plus a couple of pups felt so welcomed from the moment we arrived. We loved meeting Rusty and the rest of the animals, the golf cart tours of the property, kayaking, and hearing the story behind this special place. The accommodations were comfortable, the hospitality was above and beyond, and we really enjoyed our stay... even in the 95° weather. Thankful for the electric hookup for our camper's A/C! We’re so grateful to Jay & Heather for opening their property to us and making our stay so memorable. Highly recommend!

D

Damon

August 2025

23 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Jay and Heather were super friendly and helpful. Their 2 miniature horses were very cute and Rusty, the bull was huge. Great walking trails through the woods.

D

David

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

One of the best 2 tent sites with the best access to the water. This has the best chance at being the most private. Assuming Noone is in site 2. Can pitch a couple of good sized tents. No picnic table on this site. Can drive vehicle basically up to the site directly. Can't really do that with the others. Will be back another time. Great place to get some time outside for a night or two

K

Kyra

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Jay was so helpful and kind to us even though we arrived 9 hours late! He brought us pizza and let us sleep next to the ponies, very needed after driving 500 miles that day.

This is the view from site# 1. Campsite # 2 is on the point across the creek.

M

Mary Kate

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

We loved our night at Rusty's Retreat! We were greeted upon arrival and given a tour of the land and sanctuary. Our site felt private and had very few bugs, despite being right next to the stream! We would absolutely come back.

Robert

July 2025

18 ft Class B

1 night at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Very accommodating and friendly host. Enjoyed the RV campsite, veggies from the garden, swim in the pond, and conversations with the host. Rusty and friends were great too!

J

Jen

July 2025

18 ft Class B

1 night at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Great spot. Really enjoyed swimming ( and could have fished & kayaked ) in the pond. Perfect for our campervan but tent sites were exceptionally nice.

A

Alexia

July 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

I stayed here with my husband and 2 kids and we had an incredible time! We booked a tent site, and were even able to upgrade to another site when we got there! Jay greeted us when we arrived and gave us a tour. He was so kind and accommodating our whole trip! We got to meet Rusty, Lexi, and Little Bits, they were all so sweet! The property is absolutely beautiful! The sites were a great size and well maintained. It felt so private and peaceful! The kids had a blast walking the trails and playing in the pond. They even had available kayaks to use! We spent HOURS playing in the river right off of our site and listening to the wildlife. Jay even brought us fresh vegetables from his garden! We had a fantastic stay and would love to come again, we will definitely be recommending to friends! Thank you for your hospitality and sharing your beautiful property with us!

R

Ronan

July 2025

12 ft campervan

1 night at SōLSTAY Lodging

Everything. Great spot and I would stay again. Great location and staff where great

L

Lyn

July 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

Went to sleep with the fireflies and woke up to bird singing and a deer at my doorstep. Jay was an amazing host. Gabe is a tour upon arrival. He put a lot of effort into his place and it shows. We really enjoyed our stay.