South Bass Island State Park
A ferry-accessible island paradise in Lake Erie, offering camping, swimming, and a vibrant island atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fewer bugs
South Bass Island State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A ferry-accessible island paradise in Lake Erie, offering camping, swimming, and a vibrant island atmosphere.
"The best campground in the state, hands down, with spectacular lake views."
🚗 Book Ferry in Advance
Secure your spot on Miller Ferry or Jet Express, especially for RVs or peak season.
⛳ Golf Cart Rentals
Book your golf cart early; they're essential for exploring the island.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Erie Shoreline
South Bass Island State Park Campground
Spectacular lake views from cliffside campsites, perfect for sunrise and sunset.
Island Exploration
Throughout South Bass Island
Rent a golf cart to discover hidden coves, historical sites, and charming spots.
Swimming Beach
South Bass Island State Park
A refreshing spot to cool off and enjoy the waters of Lake Erie.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access & Timing
Getting Around the Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Ferry in Advance
Secure your spot on Miller Ferry or Jet Express, especially for RVs or peak season.
⛳ Golf Cart Rentals
Book your golf cart early; they're essential for exploring the island.
🏕️ Campsite Views
Reserve waterfront sites like #118 or #123 for stunning lake vistas.
☀️ Off-Season Charm
Visit in September for a quieter experience with fewer bugs and less traffic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Ferry in Advance
Secure your spot on Miller Ferry or Jet Express, especially for RVs or peak season.
⛳ Golf Cart Rentals
Book your golf cart early; they're essential for exploring the island.
🏕️ Campsite Views
Reserve waterfront sites like #118 or #123 for stunning lake vistas.
☀️ Off-Season Charm
Visit in September for a quieter experience with fewer bugs and less traffic.
🗺️ Two-Day Itinerary
Allow at least two days to fully explore the island's attractions without rushing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about South Bass Island State Park's stunning lakefront campsites, describing them as the best in the state. The park is praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities. While the island offers plenty to see and do, some suggest allowing at least two days for a thorough exploration.
"Spend a beautiful night here in late September. The picture of the camp sight is sight number 118. It is right next to a cliff overlooking the lake, and was an excellent location for adult, though I would be worried about having children around with the close proximity of the drop off."
Dennis Martin
"Camped 2 week nights on tent only site #123. Site was wonderfully situated along the water front. Will definitely reserve this one again. Restrooms and showers were very nice and cleaned frequently. Staff at front shop was friendly. Campground was clean. Access to boat ramp and dock, nice playground."
C Patton
"I had a good time here in the off-season. Not too many drunk people driving golf carts and not too many bugs that time of the year. There's a lot to see and do, you can definitely see it all in two days without rushing too much. One day is possible, but you'd likely be pushing things."
Thirteendays
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach South Bass Island via ferry from the mainland. Popular options include Miller Ferry and Jet Express, both offering regular service during the operating season. The ferry ride itself is part of the island experience!
Both Miller Ferry and Jet Express are excellent choices. Miller Ferry is often preferred for bringing vehicles like RVs, while Jet Express offers a faster ride. Check their schedules and book in advance.
Yes, Miller Ferry allows you to bring vehicles, including cars and RVs. Jet Express is typically for foot passengers only.
The ferry ride duration varies depending on the service and conditions, but it's generally a short and scenic trip, often around 20 minutes.
Ferry operating hours vary by season and company. It's best to check the official websites for Miller Ferry and Jet Express for the most up-to-date schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season or if you plan to bring a vehicle, to ensure availability.
While the island itself is accessible, there may be fees associated with specific activities like camping or boat launches within the state park. Check the official Ohio State Parks website for current fees.
South Bass Island State Park is generally open year-round, but amenities and services may be limited during the off-season. Ferry services have specific operating hours.
Yes, camping is available at South Bass Island State Park, with tent and RV sites. Waterfront sites are highly sought after and book up quickly.
Camping fees vary based on site type and season. It's best to check the Ohio State Parks reservation system for current pricing and availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Golf carts are the most popular and convenient way to explore the island. You can rent them from various vendors near the ferry docks.
Several rental companies are located close to the ferry docks, making it easy to pick up a golf cart upon arrival.
The downtown Put-in-Bay area is walkable, but to explore the entire island, including the state park and other attractions, a golf cart or bicycle is recommended.
Yes, South Bass Island State Park has a small beach area where you can swim in Lake Erie.
Key attractions include Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, the Crystal Cave, and exploring the state park's scenic shoreline.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, South Bass Island, particularly the Put-in-Bay area, offers a variety of dining options, from casual pubs to sit-down restaurants.
You'll find typical island fare, including seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and local specialties. Many places offer outdoor seating and live music.
There are a few small convenience stores and markets on the island where you can purchase snacks and basic groceries.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you are camping or planning a picnic.
Many visitors enjoy Reel Bar for its food and service, but exploring the various eateries in Put-in-Bay is part of the fun.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Lake Erie shoreline from the state park campground, the iconic Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, and the charming streets of Put-in-Bay.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscape photography along the lake. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant island life.
Look for the Love Lock Fence and the unique island architecture. The ferry rides themselves provide great scenic photo ops.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both landscapes and details. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for expansive lake views.
Absolutely! The ferry rides offer fantastic opportunities to photograph the lake, the islands, and the approaching shoreline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Renting a golf cart is an exciting way for families to explore the island together, making trips to attractions like Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial an adventure. Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as convenience stores are available but options might be limited. The ferry ride itself is often a highlight for children, offering a sense of journey and discovery. 🏕️ Campers & RVers
The campground offers clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere, making it a great base for exploring the island. 🚗 Day-Trippers
Focus on a few key attractions like Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial and a stroll through Put-in-Bay. While you can see a lot in a day, many visitors suggest that two days would allow for a more relaxed exploration. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at South Bass Island State Park
Visitors often describe the campground as small, usually quiet, and well-kept.
Island Transportation: Golf Carts & Ferries
Renting a golf cart is almost a necessity for exploring beyond the immediate downtown Put-in-Bay area, allowing you to easily reach the state park, historical sites, and scenic overlooks. Rental companies are conveniently located near the ferry docks, making the transition from ferry to island exploration seamless. Many visitors recommend booking your golf cart in advance, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment. The journey to the island is equally iconic, with both Miller Ferry and Jet Express providing access.
+1 Miller Ferry is a popular choice for those traveling with vehicles, including RVs, offering a more traditional ferry experience. Jet Express provides a quicker, passenger-only option, often favored for its speed. The ferry rides themselves are scenic, offering beautiful views of Lake Erie and the surrounding islands, and are a perfect opportunity for photography. +1 Planning your ferry trip in advance is crucial, as schedules can change, and popular times fill up quickly. Exploring Put-in-Bay and Beyond
The island also boasts natural wonders like the Crystal Cave, one of the world's largest geode caves. For those seeking relaxation, the state park offers a beach for swimming and picnicking.
The island's unique geography even touches international borders, with parts of Lake Erie being Canadian territory, a fact that sometimes surprises visitors. 
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