The best campgrounds near Sandusky, Ohio with wildlife watching

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate resource for camping enthusiasts! Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or wildlife enthusiast, we've got you covered. With over 690 options near Sandusky, Ohio, where you can indulge in your favorite activity of wildlife watching, you'll find the perfect camping spot to immerse yourself in nature. Need some top recommendations? Check out Camping at Heritage Farms (976 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (258 reviews) for an unforgettable experience. Plus, you'll enjoy popular amenities like potable water, toilets, and campfires. Don't miss out on the exciting activities available, including surfing, exploring historic sites, and of course, wildlife watching. Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average of $40 per night. Start planning your next camping adventure today!

94% (611) • 32 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sandusky

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate resource for camping enthusiasts! Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or wildlife enthusiast, we've got you covered. With over 690 options near Sandusky, Ohio, where you can indulge in your favorite activity of wildlife watching, you'll find the perfect camping spot to immerse yourself in nature. Need some top recommendations? Check out Camping at Heritage Farms (976 reviews), The Lake at the Flying J Farm (319 reviews), and Grins & Pickin's CampFarm (258 reviews) for an unforgettable experience. Plus, you'll enjoy popular amenities like potable water, toilets, and campfires. Don't miss out on the exciting activities available, including surfing, exploring historic sites, and of course, wildlife watching. Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average of $40 per night. Start planning your next camping adventure today!

94% (611) • 32 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sandusky

1. Rusty's Retreat with pond and river

99%

(333)

44mi from Sandusky · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

2. Riverside Camping

95%

(488)

15mi from Sandusky · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

We have a kayak and canoe livery called Portage River Paddling Company. We are nestled on 94 acres on the Portage River. You will be camping in the back of our property along the Portage River. You will be just a 5 minute walk from renting kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, gem mining, axe throwing, cornhole, giant Jenga, goats, Gizmo the 160 pound Sulcata Tortoise, Jasper the iguana and more!

3. Earth Song Farm

96%

(67)

47mi from Sandusky · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Earth Song Farm is an organic, bio-dynamic farm growing a variety of produce, chicken, eggs and more. We are also a teaching center and a host farm for volunteers looking to experience homesteading, off-grid living, organic growing and hydroponic techniques. Discovery Park provides a creative free-play setting for kids to learn, discover and grow. A naturopathic wellness center at the farm offers health assessment, iris analysis and botanical herbs to help people dealing with health issues. Learn more about this land: Nestled within the 10-acre organic farm that hosts Earthsong Farm and Discovery Park is an authentic American Indian tipi camping experience.   An extra large  party tipi ("Great Gatherings") is available for larger groups as a daytime rental or for overnight stays (up to 18 people).  This tipi is on a woodchip base for a more primitive authentic experience and has optional cots and chairs for your use.   In the fenced Tipi Village compound area there is a large Tipi on a wooden deck, a small play tipi  for kids.  The Tipi is adorned with native American Indian decor and furnished with one queen size bed, bedside table and camp chair.  Optional cots available, offering sleep accommodations for a total of 5 -6 people.   Tipi Village is equipped with a shared outdoor kitchen and dining area, including a gas barbeque grill and fresh spring water.  There is also an instant-heat outdoor shower available.   A family-friendly fire pit with surrounding seating is a centralized spot for drum circles, late night marshmallows, and evening conversations.  At night you'll see fireflies and hear plenty of crickets, bullfrogs and singing tree frogs.  Just outside the Tipi Village fence awaits "Discovery Park" for the kids... the "Best Playground Ever!"  The park includes kid powered train cars, gem mining, dual zip lines, a real fire truck, woods to explore, a shallow lagoon to take a raft across and much more. Look up DiscoveryParkOhio to see more details. Schedule a tour of the farm to see the animals, greenhouses and an off-grid EarthShip.  A walk through the old-growth forest brings a quiet sense of peace and a genuine earthing connection.  An old-fashioned General Store offers seasonal organic produce, herbal tinctures and teas, bulk foods, goat milk soap, honey, maple syrup, jams, wooden toys, free-range chickens and eggs, plus much more.   Down the road, complimenting the experience of Tipi Village, is the Log Cabin Shop: a muzzle-loading, early American craft & used bookstore. EarthSong Farm, Discovery Park and Tipi Village are family friendly environments and inline with HipCamp values.  Please understand that we do NOT allow alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs on the property whatsoever.  Functional Information: Tipi Village has designated parking adjacent to the site.  Firewood is included and stocked in Tipi Village.  Free admission to Discovery Park is included. Two gas stations within a 5 minute driving distance offer ice refills for your cooler and quick snacks, Miller's Grocery is in Lodi (5 mins) and Medina is just up the road (15 mins). For the Tourist:  Medina Town Square is adorned with tiny shops and boutiques.  You can also find Castle Noel, a Christmas museum displaying paraphernalia from popular Christmas films throughout time.  Two Farmer's Markets are active from May 1st- September in Medina on Saturday mornings from 9am-1pm. Nearby Litchfield offers an outdoor Flea Market (about 15 min. drive). Cleveland is 45 minutes away with the rock-n-roll museum, science center, botanical gardens and much more. Amish country is 45 minutes South with many attractions, stores and restaurants. There is a large assemblage of old order Amish just 10 minutes west with many farm produce stands. Dragway 42 is also just 10 minutes SW near West Salem. Akron is 30 minutes East and has many worthwhile attractions including Stan Hywet Grounds, the former estate of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company.

4. East Harbor State Park

88%

(4)

23 sites · Lakeside, Ohio

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. 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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Andy Kromer Farms

94%

(43)

5mi from Sandusky · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

2014 it was bare land. Built a house and a farm with nice quiet relaxed atmosphere. Putting a pond and shower building in 2022, to offer fishing, swimming and paddle boating. I have a very nice bbq, patio, and fire pit for people to share. A near by local abandoned quarry for people to hike as well beautiful downtown Sandusky is only a few minutes away.Learn more about this land:10 minute drive to cedar point, on a beautiful farm. Quiet peaceful country nights. We have near by abandoned quarry, beautiful downtown Sandusky and cedar point only few minutes away. We are adding a pond for swimming and fishing 2022. A nice bbq, patio and fire pit on site. This is a working farm, with steers mooing and tractors moving at times.

7. Hempstock Farm

84%

(34)

29mi from Sandusky · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to your lovely home away from home. Located on 30 acres of land, our farm is just a few minutes from downtown and all things Oberlin College & Conservatory. Come watch the sunset overlooking our beautiful garden, explore the vibrant campus life, or cook yourself a meal in our open outdoor kitchen. The space: Our campsites are situated on active organically farmed land. We have several sleeping spots available and amenities include an outhouse, an outdoor kitchen with sink & gas stove and seating area. Guests can freely use the basement shower which can be accessed through the red storm doors on the side of the house. Other things to note: Helpful to have a car even though campus is so close. 1/4 of the 25 minute walk to campus is along a state route. There is a beautiful longer walk to avoid the highway along a bike trail but if you have places to be, either ask us for a ride or best you have your own vehicle :) I walk all the time. Very doable just depends on your preference.

8. Serene Pasture Getaway

100%

(6)

31mi from Sandusky · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Serene Pasture Getaway, where two lush acres of country serenity meet natural beauty. The centerpiece of this picturesque retreat is a grand, sprawling maple tree, adding a distinct character to the otherwise smooth waves of grassy meadow. Located on the outskirts of a charming rural town and accessible from the main road, our property offers an authentic country living experience. Enjoy the rustic spectacle of horses grazing in the adjacent pasture, their presence enhancing the charm of your surroundings. The camping area is suitable for all styles of camping - Tent, RV, or CamperVan. Whether you prefer a short overnight visit or a more extended stay, our open spaces and child-friendly meadow provide the perfect setup for all campers. Serene Pasture Getaway is more than just a tranquil retreat. Our location puts a variety of attractions within reach. A short distance away, you'll find a reservoir park, complete with a walking path, baseball/softball fields, and a playground. Half a mile from the property lies a newly opened walking/bike trail connecting Greenwich to New London. For those willing to explore further, a 20-minute drive will take you to Norwalk, Ashland, and Mansfield. Or, if you're up for a day trip, Cedar Point and Lake Erie are roughly an hour away. And for your convenience, a laundromat and a local favorite ice cream stand (seasonal) are just half a mile away from our property.

9. Braden Family Farm

100%

(14)

44mi from Sandusky · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

Small starter farm Wide open area that sits on 6 acres close to downtown Mansfield and Ashland Nearby Attractions Ohio State Reformatory – historic prison and filming site for The Shawshank Redemption Kingwood Center Gardens – 47-acre estate with gardens and a historic mansion BibleWalk – life-size wax museum of biblical scenes Richland Carrousel Park – indoor carousel with hand-carved wooden animals Snow Trails – skiing, snowboarding, and tubing resort Mansfield Art Center – art exhibitions, classes, and workshops Mansfield Memorial Museum – history exhibits including the famous robot Elektro Oak Hill Cottage – Gothic Revival home open for tours Malabar Farm State Park – former home of author Louis Bromfield, hiking trails, farm tours Ohio Bird Sanctuary – bird rehabilitation and nature trails B&O Bike Trail – 18.3-mile paved trail for biking and walking The Brickyard – outdoor live music venue in downtown Mansfield Phoenix Brewing Company – craft brewery in a historic building Buckeye Imagination Museum – hands-on children’s museum Renaissance Theatre – historic theater for concerts, plays, and events

10. 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.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

11. 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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. 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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Sterling State Park

60%

(5)

256 sites · Detroit Beach, Michigan

The only state park on the shores of Lake Erie.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Cedar Point

2.3mi from Sandusky · 447 sites

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

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jacob

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Andy Kromer Farms

Wonderful stay with goats, kitties, and cows! We can’t wait to come back some day!

J

Jacob

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Andy Kromer Farms

A beautiful farm, very peaceful and quiet. We had a wonderful time!

Marianne

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

4 nights at Riverside Camping

I was on site 1… site 2 is in the same area. Right near the water… nice grassy spot. Bryan brought wood to my site within 15 minutes.

April

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Riverside Camping

Nice area right by the water. I booked very last minute and Bryan was great about it. Beautiful area. Very close to the small downtown area. I will definitely be back next summer!!

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 : )

C

Carl

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Riverside Camping

Trains , but they dont bother me . There does seem to be more trains during the week than on our weekend stay . I was raised in the inner city so again they dont bother me. Great views , good people run it and I love the sound of the water. Nomadic Camping with Endless Weekends

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!

C

Cody

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Camping

Amazing hosts, very friendly, kind, and accommodating! Beautiful place they have and the site was gorgeous. Loved having a pond to myself! Secluded from other campers and very private. Will definitely be back and recommend to anyone considering!

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.

You have access to a boat dock right next to your camp site for fishing!

B

Brandi

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Camping

Loved tent camping at Bryan's business, great little spot right next to the river.

"Great Gatherings" extra large Party Tipi

Mike

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Earth Song Farm

Well kept land filled with adventure. a real gem here.

D

Dylan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverside Camping

Very friendly, nice open private area with the pond nearby, great spot to stay for the night!

Robert

October 2025

18 ft Class B

2 nights at Andy Kromer Farms

I really enjoyed the privacy of the spot and the fact that a portapotty was onsite was an added bonus. Andrew is a really cool host. He was very responsive to my messages, as I booked last minute. Gave me my choice of spots on the farm. Spent a couple nights enjoying the big night sky by the pond. Another hipcamp winner!

Britt

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Riverside Camping

A sweet little spot by the river. Everyone was friendly and welcoming, and we enjoyed saying hi to the turtles and goats and cats near the office and kayak rental area when we checked in. The train is definitely right there and runs all night with horns, so be mindful of whether you’re someone who will be bothered or unable to sleep because of that. We stayed at site 1, which is right on the river’s edge and nice to wake up to herons and misty sunrises. Site 1 and 2 share an area without a barrier between them (though ample space for both). Site 3 is next to these sites, not immediately next to the water, but slightly more private. Site 4 is farther away from all three of the others and more secluded (and I think also right on its own little inlet of water, but I didn’t walk into the site to say for sure). We stayed here as a jumping off place for visiting Cedar Point, and would do so again.

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.

Matthew

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Riverside Camping

Site 4 is a lovely secluded spot with its own pond (with big fish!) a great fire pit and a picnic table; porta-potty is just down the entrance road. Don't be put off by the initial check in area, the camp sites are very nice and are on the Portage River easy paddle distance to Sandusky Bay. For light sleepers: Trains do rumble by most of the night, some with loud horns.

J

Josue

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hempstock Farm

Hosts were extremely friendly and accommodating! You can tell they take pride in their property and the location is perfect! So much to do within a 5 mile radius. Highly recommend this stay!

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.

A

Alicia

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverside Camping

Forgot to see the tortoise before we left! Loved it!! and will be back but with ear plugs!! There's a train that runs quite often. So if your a light sleeper bring ear plugs. I'll bring a box you can have for the office. Loved our site right next to the water and the remote location. Plus that I can bring my dog with no hassle. Also the fact that there aren't tons of sites where people are on top of each other. This is what I look for and another reason I chose here. Didn't hear anyone else except nature!! They've got everything else you'd possible want! Next time I'm paddling!!