East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park

For Ohioans eager to immerse themselves in the beauty of Lake Erie's shoreline, East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park offers an expansive and amenity-rich destination. Located within East Harbor State Park in Lakeside Marblehead, this campground is not just a place to stay; it's a gateway to unlimited outdoor recreation and natural splendor. As the largest campground in the Ohio State Park system, it boasts a wide array of sites and facilities designed to accommodate every type of camper, from large RVs to traditional tents. While past visitors have noted that sites can be in close proximity during peak season, the off-season offers a more spacious experience, and the overall maintenance and quality of facilities are consistently praised. East Harbor Camp Ground provides a well-maintained, clean, and convenient base for exploring the rich natural and recreational offerings of the Lake Erie Shores & Islands region, making it an ideal choice for a memorable Ohio getaway.

East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park is perfectly situated at 1169 N Buck Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440, USA. This prime location places it directly within East Harbor State Park, on a picturesque peninsula stretching into the waters of Lake Erie. For residents across Ohio, particularly those in the northern and central regions, the campground is easily accessible via well-maintained state routes, minimizing travel time and maximizing your vacation enjoyment. Its proximity to major highways ensures a smooth journey for RVs and other vehicles.

The strategic advantage of East Harbor's location for Ohio locals lies in its unparalleled access to the best of the Lake Erie region. The campground is just a short drive or bike ride from a family-friendly swimming beach on Lake Erie, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the freshwater coastline. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the direct access to Lake Erie, with two launch ramps available specifically for registered campers, along with a marina nearby offering fuel and supplies.

Beyond the park, a wealth of attractions awaits. The iconic Marblehead Lighthouse, a historic beacon offering stunning views of Lake Erie, is just a short distance away. For thrill-seekers, the world-renowned Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky is a manageable drive, providing a full day of excitement before returning to the tranquility of the campground. Other nearby highlights include ferry services to the popular Lake Erie Islands (Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island), the African Safari Wildlife Park, and numerous birdwatching opportunities, especially during spring and fall migrations at spots like Magee Marsh Wildlife Area. This rich tapestry of natural beauty and entertainment options makes East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park an incredibly convenient and engaging destination for Ohioans seeking diverse recreational experiences.

• RV Sites: East Harbor Camp Ground offers a significant number of RV sites, including both electric-only and full-hookup options (water, electric, sewer). While some sites are true back-ins, many are noted by campers to function effectively as pull-throughs, providing flexibility for various rig sizes. Electrical services commonly include 30-amp and 50-amp connections.
• Tent Camping Sites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, a substantial number of non-electric sites are available, ideal for tent campers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
• Shower Houses and Flush Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained shower facilities and flush toilets, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests. These facilities are generally reported as clean and decent.
• Dump Stations: Conveniently located dump stations are available for RVers to empty their waste tanks.
• Water Pump Out Stations: Water and pump-out stations are available and described as "decent," providing essential services for campers.
• Camp Store: A seasonal camp store (typically open April-October) offers a variety of camping supplies, including firewood, ice, and ice cream. Campers can also rent bikes and borrow games or sporting equipment from the store.
• Fish Cleaning Building: A dedicated fish cleaning building is available for registered campers, a valuable amenity for those who enjoy fishing in Lake Erie.
• Laundry Facilities: While not explicitly detailed in all general descriptions, many large state park campgrounds, including East Harbor, often provide laundry facilities for guest convenience.
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi access is available for registered campers, often for a minimal fee, allowing guests to stay connected if needed.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are permitted on all campsites, making it a welcoming destination for those traveling with their furry companions.

• Largest Campground in Ohio State Park System: With over 550 pet-friendly campsites, East Harbor is the largest state park campground in Ohio, offering a wide variety of site types and ensuring plenty of space for visitors.
• Lake Erie Access: Direct access to Lake Erie provides unlimited opportunities for boating, fishing (Lake Erie is known as the "walleye capital of the world"), and swimming at the park's 1,500-foot sandy beach.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts an impressive 11 miles of multi-use trails, suitable for hiking, biking, and even snowmobiling in winter. These trails wind through diverse habitats, including scenic wetlands, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation and birdwatching.
• Nature Center: A renovated nature center within the campground offers seasonal programming and interactive exhibits about local wildlife, glacial geology, and boater safety. It also features a feeder viewing window for birdwatching.
• Disc Golf Course: An 18-hole disc golf course, complete with a practice hole, is available free of charge near the Lockwood Picnic Shelter House, providing a fun recreational activity.
• Boating Amenities: In addition to launch ramps, the park's marina offers seasonal and day-use dock rentals, fuel, and boat supplies, catering to all types of boaters.
• Winter Recreation: During appropriate conditions, the park offers winter activities such as snowmobiling (on five designated trails), ice skating, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing, making it a year-round destination.
• Abundant Wildlife: The park's wetlands are a prime location for nature enthusiasts to observe a wide variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife, especially during migration periods.

As a significant part of the Ohio State Park system, East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park adheres to the state's established reservation and pricing structures. While specific, limited-time "promotions" in the traditional sense of a private campground may be less frequent, Ohio State Parks do offer consistent benefits and seasonal rates that locals should be aware of to maximize their value.

Key aspects related to rates and potential savings include:

• Ohio State Parks Campground Rates: Daily rates for sites typically vary based on type (electric, full hookup, non-electric) and season. During the off-peak season (November 1 to March 31), rates are generally lower than during the peak season (April 1 to October 31).
• Discounts: Ohio State Parks often offer discounts for specific groups. For instance, Golden Buckeye Card holders (for Ohio residents aged 60 and older or those with disabilities) and military personnel (active duty or veterans) may be eligible for reduced rates on campsites. It is highly recommended to inquire about these specific discounts when making a reservation.
• Reservation System: All campsite reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance online through the Ohio State Parks reservation system or by calling their central reservation line. Booking in advance, especially for popular weekends and during the summer, is crucial to secure a site.
• Seasonal Availability: While the campground is open year-round, utilities (water and electric) are typically available from April 1 to November 1. During the off-peak season, a limited number of electric sites remain open, with water available at the check-in office.
• Camping Rewards Program: The Ohio State Parks system offers a rewards program. By creating a customer account and enrolling, visitors can potentially earn rewards that could lead to future benefits or discounts.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on current rates, specific site availability, and any applicable discounts for your visit to East Harbor Camp Ground, it is highly recommended that Ohio residents utilize the official Ohio State Parks website or call their reservation line directly. This ensures you have all the necessary information to plan your perfect lakeside camping trip.

To plan your visit or make reservations at East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park, Ohio residents can utilize the following contact information:

• Address: 1169 N Buck Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440, USA
• Phone: (419) 734-5857
• Mobile Phone: +1 419-734-5857

For reservations, it is best to use the official Ohio State Parks reservation system online or call their central reservation number, as this campground is part of the state park system. While a slight wait at check-in has been noted by some during busy periods, the general consensus is that the staff and facilities contribute to an enjoyable stay.

For Ohio residents, East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park stands out as an exceptional and highly suitable destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its strategic location within East Harbor State Park, right on the shores of Lake Erie in Lakeside Marblehead, makes it incredibly accessible from many parts of the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing your actual vacation enjoyment. This convenience means less time on the road and more time spent enjoying the natural beauty and extensive amenities.

East Harbor offers a diverse camping experience that caters to all preferences, from full-service RV sites to more traditional tent camping. Being the largest campground in the Ohio State Park system, it provides ample space, though during peak times, sites can be close. However, the trade-off is access to an unparalleled array of activities directly within the park and surrounding area. Locals can take full advantage of the miles of hiking and biking trails, excellent fishing and boating opportunities on Lake Erie (including dedicated camper launch ramps), and the park's own sandy swimming beach. The on-site nature center, disc golf course, and seasonal programming add layers of engagement, ensuring there's always something to do for families and individuals alike.

Beyond the park's boundaries, East Harbor serves as a perfect base camp for exploring the best of the Lake Erie Shores & Islands region. Iconic attractions like Marblehead Lighthouse, the thrills of Cedar Point, and the unique charm of the Lake Erie Islands are all within easy reach for day trips. This blend of on-site recreation and nearby attractions means Ohioans can craft a vacation that perfectly suits their interests, whether it's an adventurous exploration or a quiet retreat. The reliable facilities, including clean showers and conveniently located dump stations, ensure a comfortable stay. For an accessible, activity-rich, and scenic camping experience right here in Ohio, East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park truly offers an ideal local getaway.

East Harbor Camp Ground and RV Park

1169 N Buck Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440, USA