Do you have an RV and like to travel to unique campgrounds? RV campgrounds on Lake Erie offer a unique experience on one of the Great Lakes!
This list of the Top 5 RV Campgrounds on Lake Erie will help you narrow down a place to stay on your next vacation!
Quick List of RV campgrounds on Lake Erie
- Maumee Bay State Park Campground (Ohio) – Google Maps
- Sara’s Campground (Pennsylvania) – Google Maps
- Lake Erie State Park Campground (New York) – Google Maps
- Camp Perry Lodging and RV Park (Ohio) – Google Maps
- East Harbor State Park (Ohio) – Google Maps
Why Choose an RV Campground on Lake Erie?
First, Lake Erie is a top Great Lake to visit with an RV. There are plenty of campgrounds to choose from that are close to the best attractions on the lake.
Here are a few reasons why RV camping on Lake Erie is a top choice:
- Access to water activities: With miles of shoreline, Lake Erie is perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. Many campgrounds offer direct access to beaches or marinas, making it easy to enjoy the water. some of the best walleye fishing in the world is on Lake Erie.
- Proximity to major cities: Lake Erie’s campgrounds are within driving distance of major cities like Cleveland, Buffalo, and Toledo, allowing campers to explore urban attractions while still being surrounded by nature.
- Wildlife: The lake’s surrounding parks are home to diverse wildlife, including migratory birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. This is a hunter’s paradise, whitetail deer and ducks can be hunted on public land around Lake Erie.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: Many Lake Erie campgrounds are designed with families in mind, offering playgrounds, pools, and organized activities to keep everyone entertained. Many campgrounds cater to families traveling.
RV camping on Lake Erie is also known for its wide variety of campground options, from basic sites with limited amenities to luxurious resorts that cater to every need. Lastly, depending on your budget and needs, there is an RV Campground for you on Lake Erie.
What to Look for in an RV Campground on Lake Erie
Choosing the right RV campground on Lake Erie depends on your personal preferences, the amenities you need, and the activities you want to enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider when selecting a campground:
Full-Service Amenities
- Power and water hookups: Most RV campgrounds on Lake Erie provide electrical, water, and sewer hookups for convenience.
- Wi-Fi access: While camping is a great way to unplug, many campgrounds offer Wi-Fi for those who need to stay connected.
- Laundry and bathhouses: These are essential for longer stays, ensuring you have access to clean clothes and hot showers.
What About The Views?
- Campgrounds on Lake Erie range from beachfront locations with lake views to forested spots offering peace. Whether you want to wake up to the sound of waves or enjoy the shade of a wooded area, there’s something for every camper.
Proximity to Attractions
- Some RV campgrounds are located near popular attractions like state parks, marinas, and local towns. Choosing a campground near these destinations can enhance your trip by providing easy access to hiking, dining, and sightseeing. Attractions such as Niagara Falls and Cedar Point are popular on Lake Erie.
Family-Friendly Features
- Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, pools, and sports courts if you’re camping with children. Some locations also offer organized activities like arts and crafts, outdoor movie nights, or nature walks.
Pet-Friendly Options
- If you’re traveling with pets, make sure the campground is pet-friendly and offers amenities like dog parks or designated pet areas.
Accessibility
- Many RV campgrounds offer ADA-compliant facilities, including wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, ramps, and campsites, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the great outdoors.
Cost Considerations
- Prices for RV campgrounds on Lake Erie can vary based on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay between $30 and $100 per night, depending on whether you’re staying at a basic campground or a resort-style facility. Some campgrounds offer discounts for AAA members, military personnel, and seniors.
The Top 5 RV Campgrounds on Lake Erie
1. Maumee Bay State Park Campground (Ohio)
Maumee Bay State Park Campground is on the western shore of Lake Erie, offering views of the lake and a variety of outdoor activities. This campground is perfect for families and nature lovers alike, as it provides easy access to the park’s sandy beaches, wetlands, and hiking trails. Accordingly, between the river and the lake, there are plenty of things to do such as fishing or hiking.
- Amenities: Full hookups, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, modern bathhouses, and a camp store.
- Activities: Boating, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and swimming at Maumee Bay Beach. Some of the best walleye fishing in the springtime happens on the Maumee River!
- Unique Features: Nature center, wetlands boardwalk, and family-friendly events throughout the summer.
- Cost: $35–$50 per night. Reservations are recommended during peak season. Discounts are offered for seniors and military personnel. Check the website for more details.
This campground is ideal for campers seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and comfortable facilities, making it one of the top RV campgrounds on Lake Erie.
2. Sara’s Campground (Pennsylvania)
Located just outside Presque Isle State Park, Sara’s Campground is a unique RV camping experience, offering direct access to the shores of Lake Erie. With both beachside and bayside sites, Sara’s Campground is a favorite for campers who love water sports and beach activities. The smallmouth bass and perch fishing is great in the bay at different times of the year. Accordingly, this brings in fishermen from all over.
- Amenities: Full hookups, fire pits, picnic tables, modern restrooms, and easy beach access.
- Activities: Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and cycling around Presque Isle.
- Unique Features: Beachfront RV camping sites, allow you to camp directly on the sand.
- Cost: $40–$75 per night. Beachfront sites are more expensive and fill up quickly.
Sara’s Campground is best suited for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts who want to be as close to Lake Erie as possible.
3. Lake Erie State Park Campground (New York)
Lake Erie State Park Campground offers peaceful, scenic campsites along the eastern shore of Lake Erie. This campground is known for its quiet atmosphere and proximity to nature, making it a great spot for campers looking to relax and unwind. NY is a top destination in the fall because of the steelhead and bass fishing in the area.
- Amenities: Electric hookups, clean restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and dump stations.
- Activities: Birdwatching, hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
- Unique Features: Beautiful lakeside views and a quiet, laid-back setting away from busy tourist areas.
- Cost: $30–$45 per night. Reservations are recommended.
This campground is perfect for those who want a serene RV camping experience with minimal distractions, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Erie.
4. Camp Perry Lodging & RV Park (Ohio)
For a camping experience with a historical twist, Camp Perry Lodging & RV Park is located near Port Clinton, offering easy access to Lake Erie and its nearby islands, including Put-in-Bay. Accordingly, this park is also known for its military history, as it’s located near a historic military training site. In the winter, thousands of fishermen come to this place for ice fishing. In the spring, walleye can be caught close to shore on the reefs.
- Amenities: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and bathhouses.
- Activities: Fishing, boating, island hopping (ferry access to the Lake Erie islands), and exploring historical sites.
- Unique Features: Access to military museums and historical sites, serene beachfront views.
- Cost: $40–$60 per night.
Camp Perry is ideal for history buffs and those who enjoy exploring Lake Erie’s islands while staying at a well-equipped RV park. The fishing is great and there is a beach right on site!
5. East Harbor State Park (Ohio)
Located near the Lake Erie islands, East Harbor State Park is a family-friendly campground that offers a mix of relaxation and activities. With its proximity to Cedar Point and the lake, it’s a popular spot for families looking for an all-inclusive camping experience. Also, East Harbor State Park has festivals and lots of things to do for families visiting the area. This is a top vacation spot in Ohio.
- Amenities: Full hookups, beach access, fishing access, playgrounds, and bathhouses.
- Activities: Fishing, swimming, and organized family activities.
- Unique Features: On-site fishing ponds, proximity to Cedar Point attractions, and family fun activities.
- Cost: $30-60 per night, depending on the season and campsite location.
This RV resort is best for families looking for an active campground with plenty of amenities to keep everyone entertained. This is a great RV Campground to stay at around the Lake Erie Islands!
Planning Your RV Camping Trip to Lake Erie: What You Need to Know
What to Pack for an RV Camping Trip to Lake Erie
- Camping essentials: Water hoses, power cords, leveling blocks, and extra propane.
- Clothing: Pack for changing weather—bring swimsuits, rain gear, and warm clothing for cool evenings.
- Recreational gear: Fishing rods, kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes.
- Food and cooking supplies: Portable grills, cooking utensils, and food storage. Make sure you source your firewood from a local vendor.
Hopefully, this list of highly rated RV Campgrounds on Lake Erie will move you in the right direction. Depending on your needs while camping, there is a campground on Lake Erie for you! Lastly, from the list above, choose a campground and make some memories!