Ottawa Metro Park Campground

Hey there, fellow Ohioans! If you’re looking for a genuinely fantastic camping experience right here in our own backyard, then you absolutely need to discover Ottawa Metro Park Campground in Lima. This isn't just another place to pitch a tent or park your RV; it's a true gem within the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District, offering a blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere. For those of us who appreciate clean facilities, well-maintained grounds, and a friendly vibe, Ottawa Metro Park Campground consistently comes out on top.

Many local campers consider this one of their absolute favorite spots in the Lima area, and for good reason. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the dedication to cleanliness and visitor enjoyment. The park rangers and staff are often lauded for being not just helpful, but genuinely awesome – sometimes even joining in for a game of cornhole! This level of engagement and care truly elevates the camping experience, making it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer stay, Ottawa Metro Park Campground offers a quiet, clean, and incredibly well-managed environment that perfectly captures the spirit of Ohio's outdoor recreation.

Ottawa Metro Park Campground is ideally situated at 2632 Ada Rd, Lima, OH 45801, USA. This location places it conveniently on the northeast side of Lima, making it highly accessible for residents across Ohio. Its proximity to major transportation arteries, particularly I-75, means that it serves as an excellent stopover point for those traveling longer distances, or a quick, easy drive for a weekend getaway for locals.

Accessing the campground is straightforward. From I-75, take exit 111 for US-33/OH-81 and head east on OH-81. A short drive will bring you to Ada Road, where the park entrance is clearly marked. The campground is nestled adjacent to the Park District Office, McLean Teddy Bear Park, and the Allen County Farm Park, making it part of a larger, well-integrated recreational area. The paved pathways and well-maintained internal roads within the park ensure easy navigation for all types of vehicles, including larger RVs. This blend of easy accessibility and a serene natural setting makes Ottawa Metro Park Campground a highly desirable destination for Ohioans seeking convenience without sacrificing the outdoor experience.

Ottawa Metro Park Campground prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of services designed to make your camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. They focus on providing high-quality amenities that cater to the needs of modern campers while maintaining a friendly, self-service approach.

• Electric Hookup Sites: All 30 spacious campsites are equipped with electric hookups (a minimum of 30 Amp service, with some 50 Amp and handicap accessible sites available), ensuring your RV or electric tent can power all your necessities.
• Water Stations: While individual sewer hookups are not typically available at each site, water stations are conveniently located between pairs of sites, requiring a slightly longer hose for some spots. A dump station is provided within the campground.
• Modern Bathrooms and Shower House: Consistently praised in reviews, the bathrooms and shower facilities are new, exceptionally clean, and well-maintained, offering free hot showers – a true luxury after a day of outdoor activities.
• Self-Service Registration: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with an easy self-registration system that allows for flexible arrivals.
• Free Firewood: A unique and highly appreciated amenity, the campground often provides free firewood for your fire pit, saving you time and money.
• Dump Station: A convenient RV dump station is located within the campground for waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and cozy campfires.
• Paved Sites: The sites are generally paved and level, making setup easier for RVs and providing a clean surface.

What truly sets Ottawa Metro Park Campground apart and makes it a favorite among Ohio locals are its outstanding features and highlights, catering to a wide range of outdoor interests.

• Lima Lake Access: The park boasts an 89-acre Lima Lake reservoir, offering excellent opportunities for non-gas powered boating and fishing. There's a convenient boat ramp and a handicap fishing deck, perfect for anglers of all abilities.
• Swimming Beach: A well-maintained sand beach provides a fantastic spot for swimming and cooling off on warm days. The beach is protected by certified lifeguards during operational hours, ensuring safety for all visitors.
• Extensive Trail System: Ottawa Metro Park is a hub for walking and biking enthusiasts. It offers well-maintained trails within the park, which also connect to the wider Rotary Riverwalk, a 13-mile paved pathway that extends through the city of Lima, perfect for long strolls or bike rides.
• Playground: A large and vibrant playground area is available, ensuring children have plenty of space and equipment for fun and play.
• Disc Golf Course: An 18-hole disc golf course weaves through the park, providing a fun challenge for players of all skill levels.
• Friendly and Engaging Park Rangers: Reviews consistently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the park rangers and staff, who are often seen interacting with campers and even joining in activities, contributing to a welcoming and safe environment.
• Quiet and Clean Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground maintains a remarkably quiet and clean atmosphere, making it a truly relaxing escape.
• Proximity to Lima Attractions: While offering a serene natural setting, the campground is just a short drive from Lima's urban amenities, including shopping, restaurants, and other attractions.

For any inquiries, to confirm current operating hours, or to learn more about Ottawa Metro Park Campground, you can reach out to the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District.

Address: 2632 Ada Rd, Lima, OH 45801, USA

Phone: (419) 221-1232

For us Ohioans, Ottawa Metro Park Campground in Lima is truly a local treasure. Its location offers the perfect balance of serene natural beauty and convenient access, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, more relaxed vacations without extensive travel. The fact that all sites have electric hookups and there's a dump station on-site makes it incredibly practical for RVers, while the clean, modern bathhouse is a welcome comfort for all campers.

What makes it particularly suitable for locals, however, is the genuine sense of community and care fostered by the park rangers and staff, who go above and beyond to ensure a positive experience. The array of activities—from swimming in Lima Lake and fishing to exploring the extensive trail system and playing disc golf—means there’s always something for every family member. Plus, the often-available free firewood is a small touch that significantly enhances the camping experience. Ottawa Metro Park Campground provides a consistently quiet, clean, and engaging environment that embodies the best of Ohio outdoor recreation, making it an ideal choice for our next local adventure.