Camping Cleveland: Lake Erie Bluffs Offers Untouched Shores

Have Lake Erie all to yourself at one of the two campsites ($10-$20 per night) at Lake Metroparks’ Lake Erie Bluffs park. Set about a half-mile apart and perched atop 35- to 45-foot cliffs, the private sites offer space for a tent, a fire ring, firewood, benches and a grill, and are off the park’s beaten paths, meaning reaching them requires a hike.

But the work is worth it thanks to the access you’ll get to the untouched beaches below, which are decorated with weathered driftwood and shells. “There’s something inside all of us that is just drawn to wanting to be at the lakeshore,” says John Venen, promotions and advertising manager for Lake Metroparks.

Staying in the park also means you have access to three-and-a-half miles of trails for hiking and biking, plus access to a 50-foot-tall observation tower that offers 360-degree views of the lake and more. Besides the lake, bird-watching is one of the park’s biggest draws, including the opportunity to spot bald eagles. “It’s something real special to be able to see a bald eagle flying off the lakeshore or circling up above,” Venen says.

3301 Lane Road and 2901 Clark Road, Perry Township, 440-358- 7275, lakemetroparks.com