OVERVIEW
Set along the north-western shore of Lake Erie on the Lakeside-Marblehead peninsula, East Harbor State Park is a sprawling 1,831-acre natural playground offering woods, wetlands, a long sandy shoreline and open water. It’s the perfect blend of lakeside relaxation and active outdoor adventure—whether you’re lounging on the beach, paddling into the sunset, or hiking through marsh and forest.
THE CAMPGROUND
The campground at East Harbor offers abundant options—from RVs and trailers to tents and cabins. Campers can choose from full-service, electric only, or non-electric sites, making it accessible whether you’re bringing a big rig or pitching a solo tent.
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Full amenities: flush toilets, showers, dump station.
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Year-round camping availability (some loops may vary by season).
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Pet-friendly in designated sites.
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Convenient access to lake, beach and marina from your campsite.
Sites are tucked among trees and marsh edges, giving you the dual benefit of nature shelter and open water views depending on your loop.
THE BEACH, WATER & TRAILS
At the heart of the park lies a long stretch of shoreline—around 2.5 miles along Lake Erie—with a designated 1,500-foot sand beach, protected by breakwaters for gentler water conditions.
Water & beach features include:
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Swimming in calm zones of Lake Erie.
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Boating, kayaking, and fishing (Lake Erie offers walleye, bass, perch and more).
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A marina for launch and supplies.
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Trails weaving through diverse terrains—wetlands, dunes, forest, shoreline. Eleven trails to explore, ranging from short loops to 2–3 mile stretches.
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Bird-watching and wildlife in the marshy Middle Harbor game-sanctuary area.
Whether you’re there for the water or the woods, the park delivers both calm-lake vistas and quiet forest trails.
EVENING VIBES & FAMILY MOMENTS
As day transitions to evening, the park’s lakeside setting lends itself to cozy campfires, sunset reflections off the water, and relaxed family traditions. Picture strolling the shoreline at golden hour, piling into beach chairs, watching the glow on Lake Erie, and wrapping up the day with a fire ring and marshmallow roast.
Looped trails give quieter nighttime options for a family bike ride, or simply sitting lakeside and listening to the gentle lapping waves.
A stay here isn’t just about “doing things”—it’s also about unplugging, pressing pause, and settling into the rhythm of nature and lake breeze.
WHO IT’S FOR
East Harbor State Park is a strong fit for:
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Families wanting a full-service campground near water and beach.
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Couples or small groups seeking a lakeside retreat with optional activity.
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Boaters, anglers or paddlers looking for direct Lake Erie access.
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Nature lovers who enjoy marshes, shorebirds, and mixed habitat trails.
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Tent campers and RVers alike—whether you bring full luxury or go the simple route.
PARK ADDRESS & KEY LOGISTICS
Address: 1169 N. Buck Road, Lakeside-Marblehead, OH 43440.
Reservations: Highly recommended for peak summer weekends. Campground loops fill quickly.
Season & Hours: While the park is open year-round in many parts, certain amenities (cabins, rental units) are seasonal.
Quiet hours, check-in/out, etc.: Check the park’s official site or contact the office for the most up-to-date regulations and hours.
WHY EAST HARBOR STATE PARK?
Because sometimes what you really want is a wide sandy beach, calm lake waves, trees overhead and space to wander. At East Harbor, you’ll find more than keyword amenities—you’ll find a place to intentionally be. Whether you’re drifting in a kayak at dawn, following a boardwalk through wetlands, or sharing stories around a fire beneath the stars, this park invites you to breathe deeper.
