The best camping in Erie Bluffs State Park, PA

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Discover the rugged beauty of Erie Bluffs State Park.  

The best camping in Erie Bluffs State Park, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Elk Valley Creekside

100%
(32)
3.7mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 1 site · Lodging
This campsite is a wildlife paradise and a fisherman's dream come true on the banks of Elk Creek. We open April 1 each season so campers can take advantage of three months of incredible steelhead, smallmouth bass, lake suckers and stocked browns. There are seasonal fishing ponds on the property as well. Campers will marvel at the incredible nature surrounding this secluded campsite. Watch bald eagles from your tent deck, and keep your eyes open for deer, turkey, seasonal steelhead and beautiful monarch butterflies. Elk Valley Creekside is a perfect getaway for campers interested in wildlife photography - the photo opportunities are endless. This campsite is only 20 minutes from Presque Isle State Park, and 30 minutes from Erie, PA. There are solar lights around the campsite to help you see at night, and plenty of firewood is provided. The Space: Creekside Campsite with Incredible Fishing and Wildlife Guest Access: This was a former Tentrr Signature 5 star campsite. An outdoor toilet (job johnny) and fire wood are provided
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$170
 / night

8. Secluded Overlook Solo Campsite

97%
(43)
25mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 1 site · Tent
This stand-alone secluded campsite sits in the woods above an extremely unique stretch of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) Facing northwest over the valley, it offers stunning sunset views. The Union City Dam floods the valley during wet periods making a beautiful (though temporary) lakefront campsite before slowly draining away. 100s of acres of protected land create a wildlife haven. Centrally located between 2 small towns with many local attractions. Union City Dam: Situated on the high-side of the Union City Dam, a dry-bed flood control dam. During snowmelt or rainy spells, the dam fills and floods the entire valley. During dry spells, French Creek appears as any other creek. At full flood, it becomes a breathtaking lake front campsite. Unfortunately, these natural events only occur a few weeks out of the year and are fairly unpredictable, but provide a truly spectacular setting (compare the high-water vs low-water views in the photos). Wildlife: At the end of a dead-end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of a number of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagle’s nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, and frequently crossing the valley. All types of waterfowl flock the reservoir lake when flooded. I've personally witnessed up to 1000 geese and 100’s of wild swans at once. Local Attractions: The small towns of Union City and Waterford have gas stations, grocery stores, great local dining options, and more. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. 40-min drive to Presque Isle State Park, one of the only free state parks left in the US. 15-min drive to Port Farms a farm-themed amusement park for the kids and Poverty Knob Brewery for the adults. DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit. Security cameras may be in use at the driveway entrance.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$41
 / night

9. Nederlandia

100%
(21)
26mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Nederlandia is the name of the overall parcel of land in which the main center camp, Camp Snot Otter (see our other listing under this name) is located. Nederlandia has 4 designated campsites or campers can create new campsites with direction from the owner. We provide the basic flat set up for tents and a fire pit. The land is an elongated forested strip between deep woods and a wide open field so it is very appealing to a variety of wildlife. The land has trails, wetlands, small creeks, beautiful trees, and plenty of shade on the hot Summer days while having access to a wide open field for stargazing at night. There is a nice central camp with a makeshift nature center, a large fire pit, cooking supplies and often live music.. Nearby attractions include the Erie National Wildlife Refuge, The French Creek Conservancy, Allegheny College, Woodcock Creek Nature Center, the Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Conneaut Lake, Hiking, horseback riding and kayaking within 10 minutes, and the super fun Venango General Store nearby. Kayaking packages are available for a 12 mile day trip. The camp is also close to a grocery store, a hardware store, an ice cream shop, and a couple rural restaurants. Campers may be allowed to gather their own dry deadfall for firewood, but good oak and cherry cooking wood will be available to purchase at center camp. With a bit of guidance from the staff, some campers may be permitted to blaze their own inroads into the woods and create their own camp legacy. Center camp is the central hub for everything you need. We have an information board with maps, current updates and info on goings on. We also have menus for pizza and local restaurants that will actually deliver to the land.. We always have coffee going in the morning and a luxury setting for a truly natural morning constitution (as long as you help to escort your creation to a staff appointed generally fertilizer deficient disposal designation). Also available for purchase or to barter for at center camp include water, toiletries,, batteries, tools for rent, and some basic cooking ingredients. Ask and we shall try our best to hook you up. Nederlandia is in the very formation stage of a potential small scale absurd culture festival with roots in Burning Man and The Electric Forest. Campers are encouraged to participate, to create spaces, and leave only works of natural art that may be aesthetically pleasing, but also beneficial to wildlife, at their sites. Wild things in wild places can happen here and many new friends can be made in the process. There is always a core staff person on site, and often a crew of hicks, skids, jocks, spiritual guides, (no degens), and musicians there every day from May to October to provide sharing, transportation, information and other basic necessities and entertainments. In the Winter, we have a very cozy cabin with a fireplace, wood stove, kitchen and generator for extra heat and light. Nederlandia is committed to wildlife conservation and education. Some of the proceeds from hosting campsites will go towards local conservation initiatives. Campers here can learn about local natural history and be immersed in the wildlife around them. We have incredible frog choruses going throughout the Spring and Summer. Our species count on the land is now somewhere in the 300s including an informal trapping study of insects last year that yielded a great number of cool bugs, but surprisingly few mosquitos. The one thing people have always said about camping here is that the mosquitos are not bad at all. We have a pond with turtles and frogs, tons of salamanders and harmless snakes. We've seen porcupine, mink, flying squirrels, and we still have a decent bat population around here. Birdwatching is a constant new surprise. There is almost always one or more dogs present here, of course. But I must also disclose, there are definitely signs of Sasquatch migrating through the back bush. Fun is our campsite concept and if we have our druthers, we can start to do themed parties around major dates and holidays, especially a grand Halloween party! We have already planted all the pumpkins for this year. Looking forward to hanging out with you guys!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

10. Flannel Dog Farm

99%
(146)
28mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Flannel Dog Farm is a seven acre homestead on the site of an original 1860's farm. Here you'll find sheep, chickens, ducks, and dogs as well as a variety of wild animals and birds, native pollinators, and fields of wildflowers. Camping and lodging options include a large open camp area, a tiny house, and a covered wagon. Chris Zielski and Alan Block are the wife and husband team that steward the farm. Chris is a metal artist and has a beautiful onsite studio for her business, Copper Leaf Studios. Alan is a sourdough baker, gardener, and fermenter. In addition to Hipcampers, Flannel Dog Farm hosts art shows, classes, and retreats. Much like our farm's name, our place is warm, welcoming, rustic, and a little bit gritty. We believe in inclusion, community, and sustainable living. We love telling and hearing good stories. And, we love to share our part of the world with others. Message us if you have any questions!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

11. Cabin Off-Grid Camping

96%
(38)
29mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Enjoy the lovely setting of this quiet spot in nature conveniently located near Geneva on the Lake and surrounding wineries. Propane heater and gas generator for electricity add more comfortable options for your stay. Outside port-a-potty is private and not shared with anyone else. Please bring your own bedding for use on the futon. Limited water is supplied for your use. There is not pre-cut firewood on the premises, but you are welcome to cut down logs. If you plan on having a fire, there is also firewood for sale within 5 minutes at Geneva Lakeside Storage. Any fuel that is onsite when you arrive, you are welcome to use. Plan to acquire fuel if you anticipate using the electric and heating elements. We have fuel canisters onsite if you'd like to use them to transport fuel from the nearest stores back to the site. We do not have a cleaning crew out between each visit, so please be courteous and leave the site the way you left it.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$41
 / night

12. Patchwork Place

100%
(24)
30mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
We have just under 20 acres. You can drive right to the camp sites located about 700 foot behind the house. It is a peaceful setting over looking a pond, fishing is welcome. There is a pavilion and a playground. Kids and dogs are welcome. We are close to several local wineries and about 20 minutes from Lake Erie. Pymatuning Lake is 30 minutes away. Geneva on the Lake is about 30 minutes from us. We have a catch and release fishing pond. There are 8 sites, all pretty spaced out to give privacy and a relaxing experience. 2 of which are pretty secluded site 6 and site 8. Campsites 1, 2,4,5 and 7have a view of the pond. Site 3 is near a meadow and sits behind all the other sites. Sites 1,2,3,7 can be RV or tent sites. The pavilion adds a sense of comfort especially during rain days. We have corn hole , bocce ball and a few other relaxing games as well as a few card and board games for playing while enjoying the pavilion.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

15. Camping in Wine Country

94%
(209)
35mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Purchased by my grandfather back in 1953 it has been a diverse fruit farm for many years. Currently we have almost 200 acres, a lot of it woods. We don't currently grow the crops that we did but we have planted some wine grapes in the last several years. As we also have a winery, The Winery at Spring Hill, we wanted to get some of our own grapes in the ground. We have several places for tent camping and we have a large parking lot at the winery for RV parking. Learn more about this land: Right in the middle of Ohio's Wine Country!  Enjoy an evening at our winery or take the day and explore the 30 wineries in the area. In the spring of 2024, we built and opened a fenced in dog park called the "Barking Lot". This is available for any of our guests at the winery or who are camping here. We also have a small dog menu that includes our signature "Pupcuterie board". Woods and fields surround the camping area.  Close to the natural beauty of the Grand River (State Wild and Scenic River). Just a few miles from Geneva State Park and Geneva-on-the-Lake. Lots of activities: wine tasting, covered bridges, boating/canoeing/kayaking, fishing, swimming, biking, hiking, birding, nightlife, history, golfing, and lots of natural beauty.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$28
 / night

16. Hemlock Hideaway

100%
(120)
35mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 12 sites · Lodging
*We have managed to keep our prices the same since our opening in 2019. Sadly, Hipcamp has raised our fee from 10 to 15%, beginning September 1, 2025. This increase will hit us hard and we have no choice but to increase our prices as well* Hemlock Hideaway and its 18 acres was originally part of a larger 100-acre plot that was surveyed and settled in the late 1700's by Gideon Granger of the Connecticut Land Company. Granger sold it to one Jehoikim Burget in 1815 for the whopping price of $400. The resident house was built in 1816 by Burget and then passed down to family members over the next 5 generations, until we bought it in 2003, marking the first time the house and remaining property were ever officially sold. In the mid 1800's, a grist mill was put up across the river from the cabin, and our creek was the main road in and out of that operation. There is a gravestone belonging to the wife of Jehoikim's son, she being half Native American and therefore couldn't be buried in the local white cemetery. We also own the original hand-written deed from 1815 detailing the sale of the original 100 acres to Jehoikim Burget. Learn more about this land: Our primitive cabin nestled in the woods overlooking the Grand River is a nature-lover's paradise! Come canoe, fish, experience wine country, or unplug and just get away from it all. Please note: There is no running water or electricity at the site, but the cabin is generator-ready and there is an outhouse.  The cabin does have a wood burning stove for heat and simple cooking, however there is no running water or electricity.  That being said, the building is wired and has plugs and outlets and is generator-ready.  You provide your own generator and fuel.  We provide sheets, pillows, flashlights, a fire ring with cooking grate, charcoal grill (you provide the charcoal), access to firewood, and an outhouse with toilet paper.  Our 1/4 mile of Grand River frontage can be accessed right outside the cabin door via a quick hike down the steep hillside.  If hiking isn't preferred, then a quick two-minute drive will take you to the Harpersfield Covered Bridge Metropark - a favorite of local fishermen.  Bigger groups with tents are welcome, but will need to bring all supplies beyond what we provide for two guests.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night

17. Arcola Acres

100%
(15)
35mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hello, this is 22 acres of no frills undeveloped land with beautiful Arcola Creek that runs into Lake Erie. There's room for an RV or can pitch a tent. Enjoy Arcola Creek Estuary a mile away, bird watching, multiple wineries, covered bridges, Geneva on the Lake or enjoy all day by the creek. There is a perfect spot with a fire pit. (Firewood provided-please leave some for the next camper if early in the week.) There are rough trails in the back where the land was logged. There is not a bridge currently but can be accessed easily when the water level is low. Please limit guests to 6 or less people. Land is not perfectly level. Although neighbors are some distance away I asked that noise levels are low after 10. Facts & History:: Arcola creek runs into an estuary. Its one of the last remaining natural estuaries in Ohio. Steelhead trout spawn and migratory birds find shelter here. The creek was used by Native Americans and the area was instrumental for its role in the Underground Railroad for escaped slaves that boarded ships (at the end of the Dock Rd) on their way to Canada. The town of Ellensburg was built at the junction of Arcola Creek and Lake Erie. It was a thriving community of ship builders, fishermen and commerce. Arcole Iron Works was located south of the mouth of the creek (then called Cunningham Creek after Captain John Cunningham who purchased property there in the early 1800s). Arcole Iron Works was, at one time, the largest industry in Ohio. Bog iron, discovered in Madison Township near North Ridge Road in 1812, and the abundance of timber provided the raw materials for iron furnaces. Iron stoves, kettles, hollowware and other heavy castings were made at the foundry. Everyone is welcome here, let me know ahead of time if there's anything to make your stay more comfortable. Please be respectful of the site and neighbors.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

18. Hickory Shores Farm

100%
(44)
37mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
In 1955 when my family bought our 180-acre farm, there were Shagbark Hickory trees lining both shores of a rock-filled stream. Years later a 550-acre lake was created from damming our stream and Hickory shores became the wildlife- filled headwaters. Bald Eagles, fox, river otters, ospreys, beaver, and deer are frequent visitors to our farm along with other water birds and wildlife. Recreational opportunities are plentiful including fishing, paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking. The 50 mile Western Reserve Greenway paved bike trail is 1 1/2 miles away on country roads and other adjoining roads create unlimited quiet country rides and walks. In 2023 we have added a 3/4 mile wooded trail along the shores of Rock Creek with lookouts and 27 numbered stops. These stops are described in our Hickory Shores interpretive guide available at the trailhead. Additional hiking trails continue upstream and connect two seasonal waterfalls on the property. Benches along the way provide quiet spots to rest or picnic. Spectacular sunsets, a quiet country paved road and Amish buggies await your visit. We are in Ashtabula County, home to 32 wineries and 19 covered bridges including the shortest and longest in the U.S. The second weekend in October brings the Covered Bridge Festival in nearby Jefferson, Ohio. We are conveniently located south of Lake Erie and 16 miles east of Pymatuning Reservoir for additional recreational opportunities. We currently offer 2 campsites, and both are conveniently located near a cottage style bathroom which features a flush toilet and shower. The electric site provides a 30 amps connection and a hook-up to water if desired. Each site has a campfire ring with outdoor chairs. A redwood picnic table is located at each site. An outdoor utility sink is also provided for dishwashing and can be found outside the bathhouse. Abundant firewood is available for $5.00 a wheelbarrow. (Honor system). If you are bringing dogs, please be aware that Sunny the inside/outside cat may greet you (he loves to say hello). For his safety and the safety of your pet, please keep dogs leashed. Please NO SMOKING allowed on farm or in bathroom.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

19. Sawdust FarmCamp

96%
(186)
38mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Sawdust FarmCamp! Located in Geneva, Ohio. We have four different sites to choose from: one tent site, two glamping tent sites, and one cabin. NEW 2025! The Nature Mindfulness Hike, where we find a deeper connection to nature, is now included with your stay. It is held every Saturday at 4:30 p.m. Need some additional relaxation? Book a Reiki Healing at the Jug House next to the pond for an extra fee. Reiki is a Japanese stress reduction and relaxation technique that promotes healing. Contact your host for availability before booking. We also have the option to book all our sites for a 15-person retreat, with special extras only available for that booking, including a pavilion teepee tent. Portable toilets are available, pets are welcome, and campfires are permitted. Potable water and hot water showers are only available at our cabin, and our glamping sites only have solar camp showers (not the tent site New hot showers are being planned for the 2024 season. Naturalist Isabelle H. Klein wrote a collection of letters from her home of Sawdust (named form the sawdust left by the loggers of the early 60’s) for the Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s Explorer Magazine from the winter of 1969 to the summer of 1976. They then were published as the book “Letters From Sawdust” by the Press of Case Western Reserve University for the Museum. It is a lyrical voyage through the seasons at the Sawdust Tract in Northeast Ohio. She details encounters with the wildlife of the area as well as the changing seasons and plant life. Reminiscent of Thoreau's writings about Walden. In 1978 an additional house was moved onto the property from Sidley's gravel pit and joined with the existing Klein farmhouse. We decided to preserve almost 400 acres of the property with the help of the Western Reserve Land Conservatory for the Cleveland Museum Of Natural History, Natural Areas. Forest is home to the red-sided dace, and 10 rare species of birds, including cerulean warblers. The original small family farm and surrounding woods we have retained are being restored and updated. We are proud to call Sawdust home and would love to share it with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

20. Compass Rose Campgrounds

90%
(29)
40mi from Erie Bluffs State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Compass Rose Campground is 49 acres of camping fun. You can choose to go deep into the woods for a maximum camping experience or stay closer to the modern amenities. A full kitchen is available as well as bathrooms with showers. No potable water is available. The pond was created and stocked in 2022. Bring your fishing poles and rafts!! Kayaks are available for campers also. There are many, many trails available for hiking including an enchanted fairy trail. Train lovers will especially welcome the distant sounds of the iron horse passing by. Numerous activities on-site and nearby including mountain biking, fishing, boating on Lake Erie, horseback riding, many, many wineries, antiquing, pottery shops, Panama Rock (28 min), Chautauqua Institute (25 min), Lillydale (35 min), Waldameer Amusement Park and Water World (40 min), Presque Isle (40 min), Casino (30 min) and much more. The nearby towns have unique down home diners and shops. Only 4 sites per night will be rented out. Monthly discount rates are available. Please contact me for the discount code.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night

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The best camping in Erie Bluffs State Park, PA guide

Overview

About

Erie Bluffs State Park offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity along the scenic shores of Lake Erie. With a mile of shoreline, towering 90-foot bluffs, and diverse ecosystems, visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching, fishing, and more in this day-use park. While swimming is off-limits, the park's natural beauty provides ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

When to go

The best time to visit Erie Bluffs State Park is during the warmer months when the park's flora and fauna are most active. However, for those who enjoy winter sports, the park also offers cross-country skiing amid its serene, snow-covered landscapes. Avoid visiting during extreme weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the park is open from sunrise to sunset, and day-use areas close at dusk.
  • For those with disabilities, ADA-accessible facilities are available; contact the park in advance for accommodations.
  • Remember that swimming is not permitted, but there are plenty of other activities to enjoy.
  • Be prepared for limited development; the park maintains a natural setting with minimal facilities.
  • In case of an emergency, dial 911 and be aware of the directions to the nearest hospital posted in the park.

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