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Kelleys Island
Overview
Kelleys Island State Park offers a unique island getaway located on the northern shores of the largest American island in Lake Erie. Reaching the park requires a scenic ferry ride from Marblehead, setting the tone for a tranquil escape from the mainland hustle. The park covers over 600 acres, blending lush woodlands with stunning lakefront vistas. It serves as a peaceful basecamp for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and historical significance of the Lake Erie Islands.
Location & Surroundings
Situated on the northern tip of the island, the park is surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Erie and unique geological formations. The shoreline here is characterized by rugged limestone cliffs and a popular sandy swimming beach. Because the island is isolated from the mainland, the night skies are exceptionally clear, and the surrounding environment feels untouched. Visitors are often struck by the glacial grooves, which are massive tracks carved into the limestone by ancient ice sheets.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground provides a range of facilities designed to make an island stay comfortable for RVers. Travelers can take advantage of several key features:
- Electric hookups available at many sites to support modern RV needs.
- A convenient dump station and potable water fill-up points.
- A sandy swimming beach which is one of the few on the island.
- Access to a public boat launch and excellent shoreline fishing spots.
The park also maintains well-kept bathhouses with flushing toilets and hot showers, ensuring a comfortable experience even in a more remote setting.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The most famous attraction within walking distance is the Glacial Grooves State Memorial, the largest easily accessible example of its kind in the world. Hikers can explore the North Pond State Nature Preserve, which features a boardwalk through rare lakefront wetlands. Beyond the park, the island offers charming local wineries, historical homes, and quaint shops. Renting a golf cart is the preferred way to explore the island's perimeter and visit the downtown district for local dining.
Who This Park Is Best For
Kelleys Island State Park is ideal for nature enthusiasts and families who enjoy outdoor recreation like kayaking, fishing, and hiking. It is a perfect fit for RVers who prefer a slower pace of life and don't mind the logistics of a ferry crossing to reach their destination. Those who appreciate unique geology and quiet evenings by the lake will find this park to be one of the most memorable stops in Ohio.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jamie Stanton
Pretty nice camping spot. The female bathrooms/ showers were clean, hubby said the men's were not so much. The prices were nice for a water and electric hook up spot. Quiet, and peaceful, kid friendly. If youre looking to use your phone, you won't be able to, at least not with Verizon lol. We only got service near town or at the ranger station at the entrance where they had wifi. To be honest though, I loved being unplugged. You're walking distance from the glacial grooves and the swimming beach. We will definitely be going back sometime.
Buckeye Bob
Campground and beach are well kept. Looking forward to newer bathrooms some day. Mgr Chris does a great job with the funds he has. Bring bug spray for occasional flies at the beach. Or just stay in the water.
Brandon Freeman
The Island itself is great for those that love nature or wine. Not a party island so take your alcoholism elsewhere. The State park is also great if you enjoy true camping with plenty of nature and water access to lake Erie. Trails and a beach highlight the access. The Glacial grooves are definitely worth seeing and makes you feel like you are taken back to a different time seeing all of the layers of rock.
Jody Bates
This is my opinion and should be taken as such. What an awesome place this was to stay at with a camper. Plus, taking it on a ferry was a first. We traveled with a friend and the ferry captain got us both on the same ferry to and from. The views was spectacular, we were on site 94. The lake was incredible. The island was not totally open as we went prior to their season started. But the businesses that were open were pretty great. We hung out at the Sand Bar one day and Kaz made it an awesome time.
Thirteendays
This is my favorite of the 3 islands. The grooves alone are ridiculous. However, I do think this island has the best nature preserves and a good amount of food options without feeling too touristy.