There's something uniquely captivating about America's "north coast," the shoreline of the Great Lakes. I’ve spent my fair share of time exploring the area, and the sunsets over Lake Erie are something I’ll never get tired of. They have a way of washing away the stress of a long day on the road. Finding a place to take care of RV chores that actually adds to this lakeside experience, rather than detracts from it, is a rare find. That’s exactly what Camp Eriez, a small, family-run park in Lake City, Pennsylvania, offers. It's not a flashy, amenity-packed resort; it's something quieter, more personal, and it comes with a front-row seat to some of the best views in the state.
Nestled right on US-20, just a short hop from the beaches of Presque Isle State Park, this campground feels like a throwback to a simpler time. The moment you pull in, you can tell it’s a place with a lot of history and heart. It's dominated by seasonal guests, folks who have been coming here with their families for years. As a transient RVer just stopping in to use the dump station, you feel less like a customer and more like a temporary guest in their lakeside community. This means you should approach your visit with a certain level of respect and courtesy. The pace is slower here, the people are friendly, and the vibe is all about relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
The main draw, without a doubt, is the proximity to the water. The park literally fronts Lake Erie. The idea that you can handle one of the least glamorous tasks of RVing—emptying the tanks—and then, moments later, be sitting in your camp chair watching the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of orange and purple is pretty special. It turns a chore into an experience. The location is perfect for anyone exploring the Erie lakeshore. You’re minutes away from world-class walleye fishing, and the incredible Presque Isle peninsula, with its miles of sandy beaches, bike paths, and kayaking opportunities, is right at your doorstep.
The dump station itself is what you’d expect from a classic, older campground. It’s a straightforward, no-frills setup. You’ll likely be pulling onto a gravel pad, so you might need a leveling block or two to get the perfect angle for a complete drain. The sewer riser is clearly marked, and most importantly, they have a separate spigot for potable water, so you can rinse your gear and top off your fresh water tank with confidence. Because so many of the sites are occupied by long-term residents, the dump station can get a bit of a rush around the 10 a.m. checkout time. My advice is to be an early bird or aim for a weekday visit to have the place all to yourself.
Now, it’s very important to understand what Camp Eriez is not. It is not a one-stop service center. This is where planning becomes key. There is no on-site propane filling and no designated trash disposal for day users. You will need to pack out your own garbage. Furthermore, the park doesn’t offer full hookups; overnight stays are typically electric and water only. This means that nearly everyone, including overnight guests, will need to use the central dump station at some point. This is why timing your visit can be so crucial. My strategy for a stop like this is to make it part of a two-step process. I’ll visit Camp Eriez for the essential dump and water fill, soak in the views, and then plan another quick stop at a big TravelCenters of America off I-90 to handle propane and get rid of my accumulated trash.
Before you even point your rig in their direction, you must call ahead. The price for using the dump station isn’t publicly listed and can vary. A phone call will get you the current rate, confirm that they are open for transient use, and tell you what forms of payment they accept. Many small, family-run places like this are cash-only, so it pays to be prepared.
Here are a couple of my hard-won tips for this kind of environment. First, that humid lake air can really amplify odors. Be extra diligent with your black tank deodorizer to keep things pleasant for yourself and your neighbors. Second, embrace the location. Do the dirty work first. Get the tanks drained and everything squared away. Then, and only then, allow yourself the reward. Park by the lakefront, break out the snacks, and settle in for that golden-hour light show. It’s what makes this place truly memorable.
In conclusion, Camp Eriez is a wonderful option for the patient RVer, the traveler who prioritizes scenery and a peaceful atmosphere over all-in-one convenience. It’s for the person willing to make an extra stop for propane in exchange for a million-dollar sunset view. If you’re stitching together a trip that includes Erie’s wineries, the beaches of Presque Isle, and maybe even Ohio’s lighthouse trail, this campground offers a stop that feels like a genuine part of the adventure. Just call first, bring some cash, and be ready to fall in love with that Lake Erie shoreline.