We camped at Maumee Bay State Park in Oregon, Ohio, from July 22–29, 2019, and honestly—it’s one of the nicest state parks we’ve ever stayed at. It’s clean, well-kept, beautifully manicured, and offers a ton of amenities, whether you’re there for the week or just passing through.
Christmas in July? Yes, Please
Maumee Bay State Park embraces a weekly theme during the camping season. The week we visited happened to be Christmas in July. There were lights, lawn ornaments, and even word that Santa himself was making the rounds to campsites over the weekend. The kid in me was giddy—I’ve got a long list, Santa.
Location
Address:
1400 State Park Rd
Oregon, OH 43616
Camping Cost
We paid $30 per night in July 2019 for our back-in campsite (#29). Prices may have changed, so check the Ohio State Parks reservation site or call (866) 644-6727 for current rates and availability. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance.
Our Campsite Review
We stayed in Site #29, a spacious back-in site with a level concrete pad and 50-amp electrical service. No water or sewer hookups at the site, but vegetation between sites adds a nice bit of privacy. Each site has:
- Fire pit
- Picnic table
- Well-maintained gravel or concrete pads
The restrooms and showers were clean and free to use. The laundry room was tidy—just bring quarters because there’s no change machine.
Lake Erie: A Letdown for Kayaking
The proximity to Lake Erie got us excited to break out the kayaks, but unfortunately, the blue-green algae bloom made the water look like green paint. It smelled awful and definitely didn’t feel safe for us—or our dog Sierra—to paddle in.
We did see some windsurfers braving it, but for us? That water was a hard “nope.”
Birding, Biking, and More Outdoor Fun
That said, the beach is still worth visiting—not for swimming, but for kite flying and people watching. Several folks had colorful kites in the air during our visit, which made for great photography opportunities.
If you’re into bird watching, Maumee Bay is a hotspot with wetlands and marshes surrounding the campground. Plus, you’ll find plenty of recreational options like:
- Bike rentals
- Kayaks and paddleboards (available for rent at the park store)
- Fishing
- Golf
- Interpretive trails
- Cross-country skiing in winter
Hiking and Biking Trails
Here are the trails we checked out:
| Trail Name | Type | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bike Path | Paved | 5 miles | Connects to Oregon city trail |
| Boardwalk Trail | ADA-accessible hiking | 2 miles | Through wetlands |
| Mouse Trail | Hiking/skiing | 2.5 miles | Easy terrain |
| Multi-use Trail | Mixed-use | 2.5 miles | Biking or walking |
| Storybook Trail | Hiking | 0.3 miles | Kid-friendly mowed path |
Park Amenities
- Well-stocked camp store
- Firewood is available at the entrance
- Clean bathhouses and laundry facilities
- A golf course, nature center, and museum
- Proximity to Lake Erie, though check water conditions
Great for Families, Groups, or Solo Travelers
Whether you’re camping with kids, RVing as a couple, or solo road-tripping, Maumee Bay State Park is an excellent basecamp for exploring northwest Ohio. The campground is large, yet peaceful, and has something for everyone.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Put-In-Bay – “The Key West of the North”
A short drive and ferry ride away, Put-In-Bay is a must-visit. We spent a full day there and visited:
- Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial – Honoring those who fought in the War of 1812
- Local shops and eateries
- Beautiful waterfront views and laid-back island vibes
You can book ferry tickets online in advance for convenience.
Tony Packo’s Café – A Toledo Legend
If you’re anywhere near Toledo, Tony Packo’s is a must for MASH fans and foodies alike. Made famous by Jamie Farr (aka Klinger from MASH). Be sure to check out the walls covered in signed hot dog buns.
The tradition started with actor Burt Reynolds in 1972, and since then, everyone from presidents and musicians to actors and astronauts has joined in. These unique autographed buns can be seen in all Tony Packo’s locations and are just part of what makes the place so memorable.
It’s historic, iconic, and the food is good too.
Final Thoughts
Maumee Bay State Park is one of those places that sticks with you. Despite the algae-filled bay, the clean facilities, awesome trails, and festive atmosphere made it a campground we wouldn’t hesitate to visit again.
It’s an ideal stop for RVers exploring northern Ohio, and definitely a park to add to your bucket list—just maybe skip the kayaking if the algae is bad.
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