When the boys started planning our summer vacation back in February, they both agreed on one thing: camping. After a busy summer filled with Scout camps, work, and activities, a week of simple family time sounded perfect.
We packed up and spent a full week at the Thompson / Grand River Valley KOA Holiday in Ohio. It wasn’t a trip filled with nonstop excursions or sightseeing. It was relaxed, unplugged, and exactly what we needed.
Our Glamping Cabin
We stayed in one of the glamping cabins right on the lake, and it was such a neat setup. Tom and I had our own bedroom, and the boys had a small bunk room with bunk beds. Inside, we had a kitchenette with a mini fridge, microwave, and four-burner stovetop, along with basic dishes, pots, and pans.
Outside, there was a grill, a firepit, and a large picnic table that was perfect for family meals. The porch had a couch and a couple of chairs, making it a great spot to sit in the evenings or start the day watching the water. It was the right balance of comfort and camping, and we loved it.
Simple Camp Life
Most of our days were spent right at the campground. We played games, built campfires, and enjoyed plenty of snacks and treats roasted over the fire. A couple of chipmunks hung out near our site, and we were all way too entertained by watching them dart around.
In true family fashion, there was some friendly debate over whether you’re supposed to jump your own men in checkers. (We never really decided.)
The Campground Experience
We had fun, but the KOA itself wasn’t quite what we expected. The website had promised a heated pool, kayaks, and corcls for the swimming pond, plus a snack shack for easy treats. Unfortunately, the Snack Shack was closed, the pool was definitely not heated, and it turns out the kayaks and corcls haven’t been there for a few years.
It was a little disappointing since those were the features that made this location stand out when we booked. Still, we made the best of it and enjoyed plenty of swimming, relaxing, and family time anyway.
A Day at the Ashtabula County Fair
Midweek, we decided to spend the day at the Ashtabula County Fair for Family Day, and it was such a fun surprise. Entry was only five dollars per person, and ride wristbands were eight dollars each.
We rode rides, saw animals, fed some friendly goats and cows, ate our fair food favorites, and even watched harness racing. The boys played bucket ball, won “fair bucks,” and cashed them in for fresh ice cream and milkshakes. It was the perfect small-town fair day.
A Day in Cleveland
Later in the week, we took a day trip to Cleveland. We visited the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, explored downtown, and happened upon something called Free Stamp Friday, complete with food trucks and live music.
We checked out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (from the outside), wandered along the waterfront, and made a few unplanned stops along the way. It was a nice outing and a fun change of pace.
On our way back to the KOA, we made sure to stop at Graeter’s Ice Cream. Nothing beats their Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, and it was the perfect sweet ending to the day.
Slowing Down Together
This trip wasn’t about a packed itinerary or constant entertainment. It was about slowing down, reconnecting, and just being together. We laughed a lot, played even more, and enjoyed evenings under the stars before heading back to our cozy cabin for the night.
We may not have had kayaks or a heated pool, but we had time, space, and plenty of laughs. And honestly, that’s what family vacations are really about.
Final Thoughts
Our week at the Thompson / Grand River Valley KOA Holiday gave us time together, which was exactly what we needed. While the campground didn’t fully live up to its online description, we still made some great memories.
That said, I don’t think we’d return to this specific KOA. The cabin itself was wonderful, but we’d probably try a different location next time — maybe one with a few more amenities and activities that match what’s advertised.
Even so, it was a good reminder that the best part of any trip is who you’re with, not where you stay.
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