Camping has always held a special place in Carrie Schloss’s heart.
Camping has always held a special place in Carrie Schloss’s heart.
Growing up, she spent countless weekends outdoors with her family — experiences she now hopes to share with her own child.
During the Pawpaw full moon, Schloss and her family visited Geauga Park District’s Big Creek Park in Chardon Township to explore pawpaw trees and unexpectedly found the perfect spot for their next close-to-home camping adventure.
“While searching for the Pawpaw forest, we stumbled across the Big Creek campsites and lean-tos, and all of us said, ‘wow, let’s camp here next,’” Schloss said. “The sites are tucked away in the woods in a beautiful forest along trails (including the Buckeye Trail) and away from any road. Because you are not along the road, it feels more like wilderness camping, but is still accessible for families with little kids.”
That day’s outing inspired their next trip.
“We are heading there tomorrow night with two other families with five kids ages 3-7,” Schloss said. “Tomorrow, for the first time, we are all trying out the lean-tos that seem unique to Geauga park campgrounds. I think this will be a fun new adventure for us to try.”
Camping has been part of GPD since the 1970s, with Big Creek serving as its first campground.
This year, Big Creek added two new sites — one treehouse and one lean-to — bringing its total to three tent pad sites, three lean-to sites and two “treehouse” options for families to reserve.
“It’s a testament to the public’s continued interest in camping and giving the community what it wants at this beautiful, well-used campground,” GPD Executive Director John Oros said. “It’s exciting to provide these resources to our residents, particularly at Big Creek, one of my favorite parks. The majestic trees and tranquil setting at Big Creek make it worth spending a few days or a long weekend with family and friends.”
Today, GPD offers camping at four parks: Headwaters Park in Claridon Township, Big Creek Park in Chardon Township, Chickagami Park in Parkman Township and The West Woods in Russell and Newbury townships. Each location offers its own unique natural setting.
“I have someone who regularly tells me Headwaters camping is their happy place,” Oros said. “The camping amenities we provide, although simple and primitive, recharge her soul and give her a place to unwind with family and friends. When I hear testimonies like this, it makes me proud to lead this organization. It’s all about serving our residents with quality parks, in this case enjoyable camping sites.”
Nationally, camping continues to grow in popularity.
“The number of campers is expected to reach 80.88 million by 2029 in the United States, where camping is becoming increasingly popular. Camping revenue is estimated to exceed $27 billion in 2025,” according to Statista.
Millennials and Gen Z are driving much of this growth, drawn to affordable, experience-based travel and opportunities to unplug and connect with nature, according to the research group, which noted this increased demand has led to a higher demand for campsites between 2019 and 2024.
“The new (camping additions) at Big Creek were really cool to stay in, rustic but beautiful location and very quiet,” said Virginia Hall, of Newbury Township. “We have never camped in the Geauga Park District before and this won’t be the last time. We enjoyed the fall leaves and a really affordable getaway — only $25 per night for Geauga County residents, which was great for a family of four.
“My kids were impressed by the table and benches that were built into the cabin and are collapsible,” she added. “The stay was great. We had perfect weather and an evening fire was really nice. Kudos to Geauga Park District. We’ve enjoyed so much of the programming and day camps over the years and we were definitely excited to try out a new camping spot only a few minutes from home.”
For Jerry and Lisa Tvergyak, of Chardon, camping is a lifelong passion.
Before marrying, Jerry had traveled to every state except Hawaii, camping in many along the way. Together, the couple has continued to explore the outdoors, including at GPD parks.
“We camped at Big Creek and Headwaters Park and thoroughly enjoyed the experiences,” Jerry said. “We especially like the lean-tos and treehouses at Big Creek. Although these sites are not spectacular as many campsites out West, they are unique in their own way. They are well maintained and provide a quiet and peaceful respite from the busy days.
“Just this past weekend, our son-in-law and two grandsons from North Canton stayed at the newest treehouse at Big Creek,” he added. “He was amazed at the beauty and solitude at this site. He was surprised we have such a treasure here in Geauga County.”
Information about camping reservations and upcoming programs is available on GPD’s website.
