Camp Perry Campground

For Ohio residents seeking a truly unique camping experience that blends rich history with serene natural beauty and active recreational pursuits, Camp Perry Campground in Port Clinton stands out as a remarkable destination. More than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent, Camp Perry offers a distinctive atmosphere rooted in over a century of American marksmanship and military heritage, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Erie. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an avid shooter, a bird watcher, or simply someone looking for a peaceful and well-appointed place to relax outdoors, Camp Perry provides a compelling option for local users across the Buckeye State.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Erie, Camp Perry is a facility managed by the Ohio National Guard, renowned globally as the home of the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) and the annual National Matches. This historical significance, combined with its modern campground amenities, creates an environment unlike many other camping destinations in Ohio. It's a place where you can enjoy the quiet comforts of a well-maintained site while being aware of the vibrant legacy and ongoing activities that define this unique corner of our state.

Camp Perry Campground is located at Port Clinton, OH 43452, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Lake Erie in Ottawa County, a region of Northern Ohio famed for its islands, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. The camp's specific address is often listed as 1000 Lawrence Rd, Bldg 600, Port Clinton, OH 43452, as it's part of the larger Camp Perry Lodging and Conference Center complex.

Accessibility to Camp Perry can be a bit tricky if relying solely on GPS coordinates, as some "No Outlet" roads can lead to closed gates, especially if you have a large RV. As advised by experienced campers, the key is to "Keep going & Look for those 2 small entrance towers on the main road. That’s where you want to turn. Once you turn drive straight all the way down and the campground will be on your right." This entrance is typically off Ohio State Route 2.

For Ohio residents, Camp Perry is conveniently located. It's about an hour's drive east of Toledo and roughly an hour and a half west of Cleveland, making it highly accessible from two of Ohio's major metropolitan areas. Columbus is approximately a two-hour drive to the south. The well-maintained state routes ensure a smooth journey for even the largest RVs. Its proximity to Port Clinton also means easy access to local amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and bait shops, providing all necessary conveniences just a short drive away.

Camp Perry Campground is well-regarded for providing comprehensive services that cater to RV campers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: A significant highlight, most RV sites offer full hookups, including:
  • Electric Hookups: Typically providing 30 and 50 amp service to accommodate various RV power needs.
  • Water Hookups: Direct potable water connections at each site.
  • Sewer Hookups: Convenient on-site sewer connections for wastewater disposal, a major comfort for RVers.
• Paved, Level Sites: Campers consistently praise the sites for being "long, paved, level," making setup easy and comfortable for all types of RVs.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground features communal bathhouse facilities. Recent feedback suggests they are "cleanest, newest bathroom/laundry of all the bases we’ve traveled" and "looked nice," indicating good maintenance.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry services are available, a crucial amenity for extended stays.
• Primitive/Tent Sites: Beyond RVs, Camp Perry also offers primitive tent camping sites, providing options for traditional campers. Two tents are allowed per site, up to a 200 sq ft total tent space.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in the RV park, but must be leashed at all times and owners are responsible for cleanup. Pets are generally not permitted in indoor lodging facilities.
• Wi-Fi Access: While not universally available at every site, Wi-Fi is often accessible in common areas, such as the Conference Center.

Camp Perry's unique blend of historical significance, recreational opportunities, and natural setting provides several standout features.

• Historical Significance: Camp Perry boasts a rich history dating back to 1906, named after Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry of War of 1812 fame. It has served as a military training center, a World War I and II training ground, and even a POW camp. This historical depth offers a fascinating backdrop to your stay.
• Home of National Matches: It is internationally recognized as the home of the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) and the annual National Rifle & Pistol Matches, often referred to as the "World Series of the Shooting Sports." Visitors can learn about or even observe these prestigious events during certain times of the year, and some ranges (like Petrarca Range and Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center) are open to the public weekly for use.
• Lake Erie Access and Activities: The campground offers access to Lake Erie, including a designated swimming beach (tested for e-coli twice weekly from Memorial Day to Labor Day) and a fishing pier. Kayak and paddleboat launching are also permitted. This direct water access is a major draw for aquatic recreation.
• Quiet and Peaceful Environment: Despite its military and shooting heritage, campers consistently highlight the "quiet, clean park right on the lake" with "no noise from traffic or trains," offering a remarkably peaceful camping experience.
• Shade Trees and Well-Maintained Grounds: Sites often feature "shade trees" and the "grass is mown every week," contributing to a pleasant and well-kept aesthetic.
• Security: As a military training post (Ohio National Guard facility), Camp Perry provides a secure environment, offering peace of mind to campers.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: Beyond the camp, its location in Port Clinton allows for easy exploration of nearby attractions such as Put-in-Bay (via ferry), Magee Marsh Wildlife Area (famous for birdwatching), and various Lake Erie fishing charters.

For reservations, current rates, and specific inquiries about Camp Perry Campground, it's best to contact the Camp Perry Lodging and Conference Center directly.

Address: 1000 Lawrence Rd, Bldg 600, Port Clinton, OH 43452, USA (This is the address for the Lodging & Conference Center, which manages the campground).

Phone: (614) 336-6214 or Toll Free: (888) 889-7010 (These numbers are often associated with the Lodging & Conference Center).

The provided number (618) 256-2067 appears to be associated with Scott Air Force Base FamCamp, so it might be an old or incorrect number for Camp Perry Campground. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, the numbers associated with the Camp Perry Lodging and Conference Center are recommended. It's always a good idea to confirm rates and availability, especially during peak seasons like the National Matches.

Camp Perry Campground offers a compelling and multifaceted camping experience perfectly suited for Ohio locals. Its prime location on Lake Erie in Port Clinton provides easy access from major population centers across the state, making it an ideal choice for weekend getaways or longer vacations without extensive travel. The presence of full hookup RV sites on paved and level ground ensures comfort and convenience, a major plus for many campers.

What truly sets Camp Perry apart for Ohioans is its unique blend of attributes. It's a place where you can enjoy the tranquility of a quiet, shaded campground while also immersing yourself in the rich military history and world-class shooting sports culture that defines this facility. For those interested in marksmanship, it offers unparalleled opportunities to witness or even participate in events. For nature lovers, the direct access to Lake Erie for swimming, fishing, and boating, combined with nearby birdwatching hotspots like Magee Marsh, provides endless outdoor possibilities. This combination of historical depth, recreational diversity, and convenient, comfortable amenities makes Camp Perry Campground a highly suitable and deeply rewarding destination for any Ohio resident looking for a memorable outdoor adventure close to home.