Metroparks Toledo & Family-Owned Business Team Up to Transform Big Sandy Campground

Big news for outdoor enthusiasts in Toledo! Metroparks Toledo is partnering with a local family-owned business to breathe new life into a well-loved campground and preserve natural areas near Oak Openings Preserve. The project aims to enrich the outdoor experiences available right in our backyard.

Thanks to a hefty $818,944 grant from the Clean Ohio Fund, Metroparks Toledo is set to acquire and protect a sprawling 113 acres in the Oak Openings Corridor. This area is recognized for its abundant natural beauty and ecological significance. It’s a win for both conservationists and those who just love being outdoors.

This exciting venture will see Metroparks team up with Superior Made RV Resort. Superior Made will take over the Big Sandy Campground, located on S. Berkey Southern Road in Swanton, starting in the 2025 season. The campground will get a makeover with 180 RV sites, 60% earmarked for seasonal campers and 40% available for nightly or transitional guests. Alicia Lawson from Superior Made assures that there won't be any rent hikes for loyal seasonal campers in 2025, though small, reasonable increases are expected over the next five years as improvements roll out.

That’s not all; big plans are in the works to enhance the campground's amenities. Think refurbished campsites, a brand-new swimming pool, pickleball and volleyball courts, two fresh bathhouses, and kayak access on the lake. Starting in 2026, these upgrades promise to make the camping experience even more enjoyable.

Metroparks Toledo isn’t just stopping at the campground either. They plan to create a trail connection from the campground to Oak Openings Preserve, giving adventurers easy access to even more natural beauty. There will also be public access to adjacent property featuring a lake for fishing and boating.

Dave Zenk, executive director at Metroparks, expressed his excitement about this collaboration. He sees it as a great opportunity to continue preserving the natural beauty of the Oak Openings Region while also providing premium camping experiences. After meeting the Lawson family and learning about their plans, he’s confident that they are the perfect partners for this initiative.

So, get ready Toledo! This partnership between Metroparks Toledo and Superior Made RV Resort is set to revitalize the Big Sandy Campground and offer unparalleled outdoor experiences in Lucas County. Stay tuned for more updates as the project progresses.