Put-in-Bay Visitors & Convention Bureau - Company Logo

Golf Cart Rentals at Put-In-Bay →

Book Now!

Camping & Campground Information

2 Great Camping Options at Put-in-Bay

Camping at Put-in-Bay is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the South Bass Island and all it has to offer. The island features two campgrounds, ranging from rustic tent sites to full-service RV & Trailer Campgrounds.

Both campgrounds are located away from the downtown area, so it is a good idea to reserve a Golf Cart Rental before you arrive, as there is very little car parking in town.

One of the most popular campgrounds is South Bass Island State Park Camping, located just a short walk from downtown Put-in-Bay.

The park offers a variety of camping options, including primitive camping tent sites, electric sites, and full hook-up sites for RVs.

It also features modern amenities like showers, flush toilets, and a snack bar. Kids will enjoy the State Park beach and a nicely equipped playground.

There are two very close dining options nearby the Nut Shack & Joe’s Bar & Grill. A boat ramp along with Boat rentals and Jet Ski Rentals is nearby.

Another popular option is the Foxes Den Campground, located just a mile from downtown. This campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites and RV sites. Some sites offer a view of Lake Erie.

Camping at Put-in-Bay immerses visitors in the island’s natural beauty, from hiking through wooded trails to exploring the rocky shoreline.

It also provides a convenient base to explore all the island has to offer, from historic sites like Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial to the many restaurants and shops downtown.

The vibrant Put-in-Bay nightlife is a short golf cart, or taxi ride away. The downtown area has over 20 delicious Put-in-Bay Restaurants to secret from, with many open late at night.

Put-in-Bay Pizza Company and Lesters Taco Shop deliver to both Campgrounds. A convenient grocery store and carryout are located in town, with ice available for sale. Firewood may be purchased on Langram Road just past the airport, or you may choose to gather your own.

Whether you’re looking for a rustic camping experience or a more luxurious stay, camping at Put-in-Bay is a great way to experience all the island has to offer.

Photo Of Put-in-bay Camping

South Bass Island State Park Camping

(419) 285-2112

Perched high atop the white cliffs of South Bass Island, the 33-acre South Bass Island State Park boasts stunning views, serene picnic spots on the lake, and a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of downtown Put-in-Bay, less than two miles away.

The park, the largest on the island, is free to enter and features a public launch ramp for boats and a small swimming beach. Visitors can rent cabins or campsites, with reservations recommended. The Nut Shack restaurant provides quick bites, while Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals offers kayaks, powerboats, and other watercraft for rent.

Swimming is allowed in designated areas at the small stone beach, but there is no lifeguard on duty, so visitors swim at their own risk. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, with a shelter house available for larger events.

The shelter house can accommodate up to 50 people and includes electric outlets, grills, water, and a flush restroom. A playground is located nearby for children to enjoy.

The four cabins in the park are rustic yet cozy and can accommodate up to six people. They feature a living room with a DVD player and a full kitchen with a cook stove, sink, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, dishes, pots and pans, and utensils. Pets are not allowed in the cabins.

The campground area includes 51 electric sites and nine non-electric sites, with pets permitted. Flush toilets, showers, and a dump station are also available. Groups can reserve the youth camp in advance. Visitors to South Bass Island State Park can also enjoy the island’s diverse wildlife, including various birds, butterflies, and other species.

Photo of beach at the Put-in-Bay Campgrounds
Photo of Put-in-Bay Campgrounds At State park
Photo of camping at Put-in-Bay

Foxes Den Campground

419-285-5001

Located on the beautiful South Bass Island, Foxes Den Campground is a tranquil and affordable camping destination that offers visitors the chance to unwind in a picturesque setting. The campground is situated on four acres of woodland, providing campers with the perfect opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

The campground offers a range of campsites to suit all kinds of camping needs. Tent sites and RV sites are all available for rent, with amenities like electric hookups and water access provided. There are also showers and restrooms on-site.

Foxes Den Campground is located just a short distance from downtown Put-in-Bay, making it an ideal location for those who want to explore the island’s many attractions. The campground is just a five-minute bike ride from downtown, where visitors can find restaurants, shops, and historic landmarks like Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

One of the standout features of Foxes Den Campground is its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The campground is family-owned and operated, and the owners go out of their way to ensure that their guests feel comfortable and at home. Visitors can enjoy a friendly game of horseshoes or cornhole or relax around the campfire and soak up the peaceful ambiance.

Another great feature of Foxes Den Campground is its affordability. Rates are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want to enjoy a memorable camping experience on South Bass Island.

The campground is open from May through October, and advance reservations are required. During peak season, the campground can fill up quickly, so booking early is best to ensure availability.

In addition to its proximity to downtown Put-in-Bay, Foxes Den Campground is close to some of the island’s other popular attractions. Visitors can take a short walk or bike to the nearby South Bass Island State Park, where they can swim, picnic, or rent watercraft. The campground is near attractions like Perry’s Cave and Heineman’s Winery.

Overall, Foxes Den Campground is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and laid-back charm of South Bass Island. With its affordable rates, friendly atmosphere, and convenient location, it’s no wonder it’s a popular destination for camping enthusiasts nationwide.

Photo Of Campgrounds At Put-in-Bay
Put-in-Bay Camping
Photos of Put-in-Bay Campgrounds
Camping at Put-in-Bay Picture

Top Ten Reasons To Go Camping At Put-in-Bay

  1. Beautiful Scenery: Put-in-Bay is surrounded by Lake Erie, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding islands. From lush forests to rocky beaches, there is no shortage of natural beauty to enjoy while camping.
  2. Unique Camping Experience: Camping at Put-in-Bay is a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you camp in a traditional tent, rent a cozy cabin, or park your RV, there are plenty of options for camping that cater to your personal preferences.
  3. Affordable Accommodations: Compared to other vacation destinations, camping at Put-in-Bay is an affordable option. There are options to fit any budget, with a range of campsites and cabins available.
  4. Water Sports: Lake Erie is a popular destination for water sports like boating, Jet skiing, fishing, and kayaking. Camping at Put-in-Bay offers easy access to the lake, making it the perfect location to enjoy these activities.
  5. Hiking and Biking Trails: Put-in-Bay has several hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty. With trails ranging from easy to challenging, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
  6. Island Attractions: Put-in-Bay has several unique attractions, including Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, Heineman’s Winery, and Perry’s Cave. Camping at Put-in-Bay offers the opportunity to visit these attractions and experience the island’s rich history.
  7. Wildlife: Put-in-Bay is home to various wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a wide range of bird species. Camping at Put-in-Bay allows visitors to experience these animals in their natural habitat.
  8. Relaxation: Camping at Put-in-Bay offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and unwind in a peaceful, natural setting. Whether you spend your days exploring the island or simply lounging by the campfire, camping is the perfect way to relax and recharge.
  9. Family-Friendly: Camping at Put-in-Bay is a great option for families, offering a range of activities that both parents and kids will enjoy. There is no shortage of family fun, from hiking and biking to swimming and playing games.
  10. Community: The camping community at Put-in-Bay is welcoming and friendly, making it easy to connect with other camping enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the camping lifestyle, you will feel at home on this beautiful island.

Helpful Links

Hotels & Resorts

Get the lowest rates on Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by booking directly on the Put-in-Bay Resort website! Comfortable accommodations await, so book today, and enjoy your stay.
+

Spending more than a day in Put-in-Bay?

Book Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by clicking below! Convenient online booking ensures the best rooms at the best rates. Experience Put-in-Bay in comfort!
Click Here

Island Events

Get the lowest rates on Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by booking directly on the Put-in-Bay Resort website! Comfortable accommodations await, so book today, and enjoy your stay.
+

Spending more than a day in Put-in-Bay?

Book Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by clicking below! Convenient online booking ensures the best rooms at the best rates. Experience Put-in-Bay in comfort!
Click Here

Island Attractions

Get the lowest rates on Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by booking directly on the Put-in-Bay Resort website! Comfortable accommodations await, so book today, and enjoy your stay.
+

Spending more than a day in Put-in-Bay?

Book Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by clicking below! Convenient online booking ensures the best rooms at the best rates. Experience Put-in-Bay in comfort!
Click Here

Golf Cart Rentals

Get the lowest rates on Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by booking directly on the Put-in-Bay Resort website! Comfortable accommodations await, so book today, and enjoy your stay.
+

Spending more than a day in Put-in-Bay?

Book Put-in-Bay hotels and resorts by clicking below! Convenient online booking ensures the best rooms at the best rates. Experience Put-in-Bay in comfort!
Click Here

Yolanda S.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
We had a wonderful stay at South Bass Island State Park towards the end of summer, despite it being quite full. Our campsite was located in the inside loop, which was surrounded by trees and provided us with some privacy. We were lucky to have friendly neighbors who took an interest in our little teardrop camper. During the day, we explored the island and also visited Middle Bass Island, which was a great experience. The weather was perfect and added to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. Since it was our first time taking the ferry with our camper, we sought advice from our neighbor, who suggested we catch the first ferry on Sunday morning. Following their suggestion, we got on the ferry without any hassle. Taxi service was available at the park, and they picked us up right from our camper for a small fee. On our way back, we asked the taxi driver to drop us off at a dive bar nearby, and we had a great time having a few drinks and walking around. One night, we even walked from downtown to our campsite without any issues, and it didn't take us long. We found a decent Mexican stand near the ferry spot, open until 3 am, so we stopped there one late night. Overall, we had an excellent time camping on the island and campground, and we are already considering returning. We camped at South Bass Island State Park in our travel trailer, and we highly recommend it to others looking for a peaceful and scenic camping experience.

Trina S.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
The campground boasts stunning views of the cliffs by the water, particularly if renting near the edge. Regrettably, we stayed in our motorhome and were unable to enjoy these views. The RV sites were covered in leaves, and we hoped that the park management would put down some mulch and take care of the grounds. Additionally, the bathrooms were up to our standards and clean, with good lighting. We also had some pleasant interactions with the staff, particularly the woman at the front desk. We found her to be easy to work with. We are big fans of camping on put in bay and will likely continue to camp here. We know that the park management will address some of these concerns and make some improvements to the facilities and staff interactions in the future. We camped at South Bass Island State Park in a Motorhome.

David S.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
South Bass Island State Park is a fantastic campground, though visitors should be aware that ferry travel is required to get there. The ferry cost $112 round trip for the camper, truck, and two people. The campground is nicely shaded but not very level, and there is reasonable spacing between camping sites. The staff does a good job of quickly dealing with any issues that may arise. One of the best features of the campground is the shower house, which has 5 private shower rooms that allow you to adjust the temperature on the low-flow showerhead. Both the showers and bathrooms were very clean during the visit. Another highlight of the campground is the sunset at the boat ramp, which provides a fantastic view. Overall, despite the need for ferry travel and the slightly uneven campsites, South Bass Island State Park is an excellent place for put in bay camping, with clean facilities and beautiful natural surroundings. The reviewer camped in a travel trailer and would recommend the campground to others.

Braylee H.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
What a remarkable cam experience! It surpassed our expectations in every way. The lush forest surrounds the bluffs of Lake Erie, providing a serene and picturesque setting. We were pleased to find ample space between the campsites, and there are open grassy areas near the water that were perfect for relaxing. Access to the campground from the ferry was simple and hassle-free.

The upper RV section was conveniently equipped with full hookups in the center section, while the perimeter sites had water and electricity. The lower area was designated for tents only, and most of the sites provided an unobstructed view of the lake. There were numerous bathhouses throughout the park, making it easy to find one nearby no matter where we were located. We appreciated the cleanliness and upkeep of these facilities. Near the entrance, there was a rock beach and boat launch that we thoroughly enjoyed. We left our vehicle at the campground as parking in town was limited, and instead opted to rent a golf cart from one of the many outfitters. There was even one within walking distance of the campground. Alternatively, we could take a $3 taxi that would pick us up right from our campsite. Not all taxi services are permitted inside the state park, so we made sure to call the number posted at the bathhouse for campsite pick-up.

We spent a week here in early October camping and found that the campground was mostly empty during the week but filled up on the weekend. Overall, it was a wonderful stay, and we are already planning to return. We highly recommend South Bass Island State Park for a memorable camping experience. We camped in our motorhome and enjoyed every moment of it.

Larry H.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
The park was very nice, with ample trees providing plenty of shade. There are 11 back-in sites with full hookups, which can be a bit cramped, but not too uncomfortable. All the roads and pads were freshly repaved this year. Some of the tent sites have amazing views of Lake Erie from a bluff. Put-in-Bay is a unique and fun destination with lots of bars and restaurants, which are located across the island. The state dock and boat rentals are conveniently located near the camping sites, and there is a winery about a mile away. Taxi service is available for $3 per person to and from any part of the island, although the ferry ride to get there may be a deterrent for some. The ferry fare for a 30-foot vehicle was $45 each way, but considering the beauty of the park and the island, put in bay camping is definitely worth it. We camped at South Bass Island State Park in a motorhome.

Fred C.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
This campground offers a lovely lakeside camping experience. The sites near the cliffs are particularly breathtaking, but all sites are enjoyable. It's a perfect location for anyone interested in camping on the island, though there isn't much to do on the island itself, so I wouldn't recommend making it a primary destination like a larger park area. The camping bathrooms are well-maintained, with clean showers and a security pin code required for park entry. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my stay here.

Charlie D.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
We had a wonderful camping experience! We took Miller's Ferry to the island and found the campsite to be utterly shaded with beautiful surroundings. Most sites are level, but some are a bit narrow. Our site, number 32, was long and backed up to an open wooded area behind us. We found everyone to be respectful and considerate. The shower houses were decent, albeit older, and kept clean. There were private shower stalls, plenty of drinking water stations, and grey water dump available. We were there during the mayfly season, which was harmless, but quite numerous! The wifi worked fine and the office was open from 3 pm to provide ice. The lake is beautiful, and the tent sites on the lake are picturesque, though they don't have electricity. To get around the island, we rented a golf cart, which was a lot of fun. The sunsets near Perry's Memorial were magnificent. The best restaurant we tried was Goat Soup and Whiskey, with the second-best being Upper Deck. We really enjoyed camping on put-in-bay