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Your Put-in-Bay Campground Experience
Put-in-Bay’s camping scene is a lot like the rest of the island in that you won’t believe you’re in Ohio. It’s no wonder one of the island’s most popular nickname is the “Key West of the The North”. With so many lodging choices to choose from, some visitors opt to take matters into their own hands by choosing to camp out at Put-in-Bay’s Campground at the South Bass Island State Park. The Lake Erie Island is known historically for Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, fun nightlife, swim-up bars and their excellent selection of local restaurants. Your Put-in-Bay campground experience is sure to be a good one with so many things to do in the surrounding area. You will be located near some of Put-in-Bay’s top attractions such as Perry’s Cave and Heineman’s Winery.
Perched high atop the white cliffs of South Bass Island sits the beautiful 33-acre South Bass Island State Park. Located just under two miles from downtown Put-in-Bay, this park provides visitors with a stunning array of options. Breathtaking lake views, serene picnic spots, and lots of water fun are all on deck here. The wooded campground and serene picnic spot on the lake give a relaxing escape from Put-In-Bay’s bustle. Oak Point, the companion park of South Bass Island, offers boaters and picnickers facilities near the heart of the city. South Bass Island State Park Details Far from the hustle...
Around one hundred years ago, the South Bass Island State Park was once home to the famous Victory Hotel before it burned down in a tragic fire in 1919. The remains of the first co-ed swimming pool in the United States and the hotel’s old foundation is within walking distance of the campground. Today, the South Bass Island State Park features Put-in-Bay waterfront views unlike anywhere else on the island.
The South Bass Island State Park has a large lakefront campground with cliff-side views of Lake Erie. Staying here will create memories that will be hard to forget. Some say the sunsets are the best in the United States! Thinking about turning your Put-in-Bay vacation into a fun camping experience? You won’t be staying in a waterfront condo starring off your luxurious balcony, but you will be surrounded by relaxing Put-in-Bay island nature. You’ll hear the waves of the Lake crash into the cliffs and will wake up to the sounds of birds peacefully chirping.
About the State Park
The State Park campground consists of 33 acres of protected land located on the opposite side of downtown Put-in-Bay and DeRivera Park. Home to Put-in-Bay’s only public beach, the State Park campground is one of the island’s most popular destination for nature lovers and sunset chasers. Campers have access to flush toilets and showers onsite. For those who would rather stay in a cabin, the State Park has four rustic-themed Put-in-Bay lodging rental homes available with a three-night minimum policy. There are 51 electric campsites and 9 non-electric. For renting your campground, you can click here to visit the state park’s website for rates and availability. Your Put-in-Bay Campground experience awaits!
Picnic areas are ever present, and the Put-in-Bay beach is open for a refreshing swim. Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals are also onsite where guests can enjoy water sports like Jet Skiing and kayaking. There is golf cart-parking available. Consider one of Put-in-Bay’s select golf cart rentals to get around the island. Have a Put-in-Bay map ready and begin your island exploration. If you arrive at Campground and are short of any supplies, you are just a short Island Club taxi ride away from the downtown general store. For just $3 per person the taxis can pick you up at the front entrance of the park and take you anywhere on Put-in-Bay.
About the South Bass Island State Park
Things to do at the South Bass Island State Park include boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, swimming and much more. The property has a rich history dating back to when it was occupied by the Native American Indian tribes who called it home. Then, in the 1800s, the whole island played a pivotal role in the War of 1812 against the British Naval fleet.
It wasn’t until the 1870s that Put-in-Bay became a tourist destination. Investors decided to contrast the Hotel Victory on the grounds of what is now today the state park. Unfortunately, in 1919 the summer resort burned to the ground in a tragic fire. In 1951, the land was added into the Ohio State Park system and remains a state park today.
Be sure to check out the only Put-in-Bay campground where you’ll find the remains of the foundation of the Hotel Victory, a stone beach open for public swimming, boat rentals, fishing docks and much more!
Frequently Asked Put-in-Bay Campground Questions
Can you bring your car to Put-in-Bay?
Yes, the Miller Ferry provides both vehicle and passenger transportation to Put-in-Bay. For $18 each way, you can bring your vehicle over. Their mainland dock leaves from Catawba and arrives to Put-in-Bay in roughly 18 minutes. However, bringing your car over is not necessary as there is free parking at the Millers Ferry Put-in-Bay dock. The Miller Ferry Dock is located about an hour away from Cleveland and Toledo. If you are coming from Sandusky, the dock is between 20 and 30 minutes away.
Is there parking at the South Bass Island State Park Campsite?
There is parking at the South Bass Island State Park. There is extended trailer parking available as well as regular vehicle parking spots available to public. Parking is easy accessible outside of the entrance to park near the public beach area. If you are coming for just a picnic or are staying at the campsite for a few days, parking shouldn’t be an issue.
How much is a night at the South Bass Island State Park campground?
Prices vary between campsites. There are a few options to consider when reserving a Put-in-Bay campground. You can reserve a “tent only” site, an electric campsite, or a non-electric campsite. These three options are all around $30 per night plus a park fee of $6.50. The rental cabins rent from $100/per night and prices may vary based on the time of year.
Is there a pool at the State Park Campground?
There is not a pool at the State Park Campground. However, there is a public beach where visitors can swim in Lake Erie. People can also head over to the downtown area and enjoy the swim-up bars and other Put-in-Bay hotel swimming pools.
Are there any outdoor grills available onsite?
Yes, there are multiple charcoal grills throughout the park to make the perfect barbecue picnic a reality. Just make sure to bring your own charcoal or pick some up at the Island General Store located in downtown Put-in-Bay.
