For Kayakers & Water Lovers: Punderson State Park
This 150-acre natural kettle lake offers peaceful paddling through scenic coves and inlets. Rent kayaks on-site or launch electric boats for quiet exploration. Ideal for relaxing, birdwatching or fishing, the calmness of the park makes it a top spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. The park offers a range of overnight options, including a 201-site campground with Rent-A-RV units, family cottages and rooms in a historic Tudor-style manor lodge. 11755 Kinsman Road, Newbury Township, 440-564-2279, pundersonstatepark.com
For Live Music Fanatics: Nelson Ledges Quarry Park
Over the years, Nelson Ledges has become a hub for live music, camping and swimming. Famed for its dramatic sandstone ledges, local vendors and waterfalls, the park also hosts nearly a dozen annual music festivals ranging from bluegrass and jam bands to EDM and tribute shows. Festival passes include camping; on non-festival weekends, park passes are available at the gate. 12001 Nelson Ledge Road, Garrettsville, 440-548-2716, nlqp.com
For the Glamper: Sawdust Farm Camp
This peaceful, off-grid retreat offers a soul-soothing escape to 400 acres of preserved woodland. Stay in a furnished bell tent with a queen bed and firepit overlooking a creek, or cozy up in the Moonshine Cabin with a porch hammock. Guests can enjoy nature mindfulness hikes, Reiki healing sessions or visit a nearby Grand River Valley winery. Firewood, cookware and composting toilets are included, providing a little extra comfort with the campfire. Atkins Road, Geneva, 216-548-5917, sawdustcamp.com
For the Festive: Heritage Farms
Nestled on a 115-acre fifth-generation Christmas tree farm bordering Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this spot offers a rustic camping experience just minutes from the Towpath Trail. Campers can choose from spacious primitive tent sites with a picnic table and fire ring, or opt for one of six cozy A-frame or Adirondack-style shelters. While there are no hookups or running water, visitors can order water jug delivery and visit well-maintained porta-potties, plus a lending wagon and charging stations. The atmosphere is quiet and tree-filled, with a touch of pastoral charm. 6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula, 330-657-2330, heritagefarms.com
For the Animal Lover: Goat Farm Hideaway
Just steps from Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Blossom Music Center, this farm offers a one-of-a-kind, goat-filled getaway. The family-friendly site hosts just one group at a time, up to 10 people. Guests can tent camp or park a small RV near the main goat yard or in a more private corner of the property, with the barn available for shelter if needed. Campers can enjoy jumbo Connect Four, gem mining, cornhole, ladder ball, badminton and relaxing farm visits. 4059 Northampton Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-801-5429, gagaforgoats.com
RELATED: Your Guide to Getting Outside This Fall
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