It’s hard to believe that only a mile-and-a-half from downtown Put-in-Bay’s nonstop party is the tranquil campground ($29- $43 per night) at South Bass Island State Park. Offering a respite from the crowds, the small park (only 33 acres) more than makes up for its lack of size with the views from its campsites. “We have campsites on bluffs that are 30-40 feet above the lake, so you’re actually up in the air quite a bit,” says park manager Matthew Miller.
“You have breezes coming off the lake, you can watch sunsets from the campground area, and at night you’re seeing quite a few stars.” Plenty of campers bring their boats to launch from the park’s marina and the spot is a destination for walleye, bass and perch fishing. Glacial grooves and rock formations are abundant in the state park, and hiking trails are available in nearby nature preserves if you can’t get enough of the area’s natural beauty. And if you’re craving a little bit of the island’s nightlife or family fun (putt-putt courses, wineries and historical sites also dot the island), the campground has a taxi service to shuttle you around, or you can rent one of the ubiquitous golf carts.
1523 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, 866-644-6727, reserveohio.com
Camping Cleveland: South Bass Island State Park Offers Peace Or Party
The island getaway is equally perfect for those looking for peace or a Put-in-Bay party.
