Mohican State Park and nearby equestrian facilities provide multiple options for horse campgrounds near Orrville, Ohio. The region spans rolling hills and wooded valleys in north-central Ohio with elevations ranging between 900-1,200 feet. Late spring through early fall offers the most favorable camping conditions with moderate temperatures, though summer humidity can reach 70-80% during July and August.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: At Mohican Wilderness, riders can explore extensive trails through varied terrain. "We have camped here 3 times now and even though it's a large park the sites are huge so you still feel like you can kick back and relax. Quiet neighbors and friendly staff plus everything is mowed and well maintained," notes Andrea F.
Fishing opportunities: West Branch State Park offers excellent fishing access with waterfront sites. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," writes Katelyn P. about the West Branch State Park Campground.
Hiking exploration: Multiple trail networks connect the region's parks. "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," shares Nicole K. Many trails remain accessible year-round with proper footwear.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the generous site sizes at equestrian camping areas. "I am reviewing the primitive campground in the Hemlock Gorge. It is right alongside the river and at the bottom of the gorge. I always try to go to the end of the long campground where I feel it is quieter," explains Marci P. about Mohican State Park Campground.
Water access: Many sites provide direct river or lake frontage. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," remarks Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Year-round options: Some facilities maintain limited winter services. "First come first serve in the winter. One heated bathroom with a shower is open in the winter. Absolutely beautiful & great trails," notes Renée C.
What you should know
Reservation planning: High-demand sites require advance booking. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. Most equestrian sites have limited availability during peak summer weekends.
Terrain challenges: Many campsites have uneven ground. "No level ground to be found, but far fewer neighbors than the A class, main campground," shares Jared H. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground.
Limited amenities: Primitive horse camps offer basic facilities. "Primitive camping with a gravel parking pad and water, fire ring, picnic table and hitching post. No reservations, this is a first come campground," explains Shelly S. about Malabar Farm State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks feature designated swimming areas. "The camper beach was small but nice and clean. We also took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear," writes Andrea F. about West Branch State Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday offers guided horseback experiences. "Took the family there and loved it. It's clean and quiet. Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly," shares Bradley B.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain play areas. "Nice playground with toy stocked sandpit, volleyball net, cheap laundry ($3 per load, wash and dry), dishwashing sinks, showers, and clean bathrooms. There was even a step stool for kids to be able to reach the sinks," notes Lee D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on seasonal needs. "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. We're in a self contained RV so it's not a problem for us. Beach is right next door too!" advises Rino S. about West Branch State Park.
Leveling requirements: Bring adequate leveling equipment. "We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches," cautions Andrea F.
Water fill logistics: Check water station configurations. "First the water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full. This was okay for a short weekend but not good planning from who ever designed the park," notes Andrea F. about Ashland Fairgrounds.
