Camping near Gambier, Ohio concentrates around the Kokosing and Mohican Rivers, with sites ranging from primitive to full hookup. The area sits within Knox County at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, experiencing humid summers with average highs in the 80s and cold winters that typically close many campgrounds from late October through April. Most campsites receive moderate tree cover, creating partial shade during summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Mohican State Park Campground features several miles of scenic paths. "The hiking trails are great with a covered bridge, overlook and waterfalls. The sites are nice and large with trees throughout the park," notes one visitor who rated the park as their favorite of 2019.
Horseback riding: At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, equestrians can access dedicated horse trails. "We went exploring and saw the marina, beach, horse camp area, and walked some of the bridle trails," shares a camper who appreciated the campground's diverse offerings.
Disc golf: Mt Gilead State Park Campground offers a challenging disc golf course for visitors. "We took a night walk with headlamps and found the disc golf course. This was laid out to be a crazy course and included repelling ropes!" writes one reviewer who enjoyed this unique feature.
What campers like
River access: Campsites along waterways remain particularly popular. "Our site was a little muddy and a little smaller than other sites but overall we were very happy with the campground," notes a tent camper who stayed at a primitive riverfront site at Mohican Wilderness.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas provide relief during summer heat. At Rustic Knolls Campground, "The camp sights are well maintained. Swimming pond and fishing pond. Restrooms are all over for convenience," according to a repeat visitor who plans to return.
Off-grid experience: Limited connectivity appeals to some campers. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," mentions a visitor about Mohican State Park Campground, who considers camping in the off-season their favorite time despite the technology limitations.
What you should know
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary significantly in site density. At Mohican Adventures, one visitor notes: "We camped here off season and had the place to ourselves. We had a pull through site which was gravel. The sites seemed a little small so it might feel crowded during peak season."
Weather impacts: Rain can create challenges for tent campers in particular. One visitor to Lazy River at Granville mentioned how during a thunderstorm, "they let all the tent dwellers use the game room to relax in and ride out the worst of the storm."
Seasonal limitations: Many campsites near Gambier operate seasonally. The Caves Campground runs a compact RV-focused operation with 10 sites featuring electric and water hookups but no showers. One visitor noted: "Pulled up right to the site- directions well marked. Met with the host, very nice campground with electric and water - not full hookup, but there was a septic drain accessible near the site."
Tips for camping with families
Creek play: Natural water features provide entertainment. At Lazy River at Granville, a camper with nine children among their group reported: "The kids loved the swimming pools and splash pads, the awesome play ground and lots of playing in the creek."
Activity variety: Some campgrounds offer structured programming. "Lots of activities for the whole family. Canoeing, kayaking, tubing on the river. Swimming in the pond. Game room and miniature golf. Trails to hike. Lots of summer activities scheduled for the year," writes a visitor to Mohican Wilderness.
Bike-friendly areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated paths for cycling. Pleasant Hill Lake Park received praise for its "bike/walking paths for kids/adults is a great addition for campers with young kids. The shower houses are clean as well as the grounds."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground offers various camping areas with different amenities. "We have stayed mostly in area E and the new F side of the campground. The new F sites have concrete pads and plenty of space. Only lacking in mature trees to offer shade," advises a long-time visitor.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional setup work. At Mt Gilead State Park, a camper noted: "Our pad was pretty level and not hard to back into with a small camper. However, a lot of the pads are at 90° angles instead of 45° so it can be harder for a larger camper back in."
Hookup placement: Plan for potential setup complications. When staying at Lazy River at Granville, one RVer pointed out that "The new section (sites numbers in the 200s) have hook ups at the front of the sites so you may have to buy longer hoses."
