Oregon, Ohio - Maumee Bay State Park

When traveling through Ohio consider staying at a state park to experience what nature has to offer. Some states establish complex systems to reserve a space in their parks, but that is not the case in Ohio. We reserved our space a month in advance by using the internet. The website states sites can be reserved 6 months in advance. The process was simple and the cost per night reasonable. We only stayed two nights, but this area has so much to offer that a much longer stay might be considered.

As seen above, the spaces require the RV to backed in if a vehicle is towed so plan to disconnect it at the front of the park. However, there is plenty of space for both vehicles. Each space comes with a picnic table, firepit, and a large, grassy area surrounded by trees and shrubs of natural meadows. Our spot had electicty and water. If traveling with somebody, this offers privacy but there is a mowed strip that provides access between spaces.

Amenities

Nobody should use the words "roughing it" when staying at this Ohio state park. They have heated shower houses and flush toilets. At Maumee Bay I noticed a sign outside an RV in each of the dedicated lanes for camping that identified a camp host. This might be the reason for the pristine appearance of the amenities, grounds and peaceful environment.

Children would never be bored here. Playground equipment is within walking/biking distance and trails escort campers to where ever they wish to go. If needed, bike rentals are offered at a minimal price. Also, basketball courts and horseshoe pits are available for registered campers. Several ponds sit near the campsites and are open for use.

Since our stay occurred on our 15th day of travel, we were pleased to find washers and dryers nearby. The machines and room was clean and orderly. Next to this building, large barn doors opened to invite guests in to play games, read, or simply sit out of the weather. Other shelters and gazebos are spread throughout the park. Posters announce upcoming events such as nature hikes, a pancake feed, or lectures about the area.

This park truly has something for everyone, from tent camping to cabins and even a lodge. The nice fact is that a visitor can choose the environment based on their desires. A visit to the lodge offers crowds and a boardwalk. A remote campsite provides the opportunity to escape from the bustle of a busy life.

Explore by bicycle

Throughout the park are paved paths for walking or biking. The path travels beside Lake Eerie providing beautiful scenery. We loved the various birds in the area and even encountered some deer watching us from the brush.

The lighthouse reminded us of the size of the lake as they are typically seen on the coast of the ocean but serve a purpose here. As we rode the path we discovered a small resort that would provide a place for travelers to stay and take a meal.

We encountered few people, creating a quiet, serene ride to connect with nature. I do not know if this is typical of September but image the summer brings the bustling of travelers and imagine families frequent this area during warm summer days or fall weekends.

Our visit was met by some clouds but the temperatures welcomed outside adventure. The color of the water surprised us as it was brown and looked muddy. I don't know if this is typical all year long. The massive size of lake Eerie reminds an observer of standing beside the ocean but without the wind, tides and sea shells.

Even though it was a cooler day when we visited, the beaches were occupied and offered many opportunities for exploration. The area is pristine as the sand is raked on the beaches and grass is mowed.

The lake offers fishing opportunities, and we learned it is home to 23 different species of fish. Charters are available and this area is known as the World's walleye capital. Many other water activities are available: sailing, kayaking, canoeing, parasailing, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. For a relaxed experience some areas on the lake provide tours by boat and dinner cruises.

Maumee Bay provides a little bit of everything for everybody. We loved the quiet and open areas that allowed our dogs to relax and not be tormented by other dogs or people.

Follow us on Vocal Media to share our journey across the US. Or join our Facebook page at RVing in Retirement.