Mohican State Park offers diverse camping options beyond its main campground facilities. Free hike-in primitive sites accommodate backpackers with 10 first-come, first-served spaces distributed along mountain bike and horse trails. Winter camping provides a quieter experience with heated restrooms and potable water available at the dump station. The campground connects to extensive trail networks with varying terrain suitable for different experience levels.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Mohican State Park Campground provides access to numerous horse trails that connect with Mohican-Memorial State Forest where riders can explore additional terrain. "We love this park! Lots of hiking! Even saw a bald eagle this trip," notes Andrea F.
River activities: The Clear Fork Mohican River offers multiple recreation options through the park. "During the summer I hear it gets pretty busy with people tubing on the river," explains Renée C. in her review of Mohican State Park. Some campsites are positioned directly on the water for easy access.
Farm tours: For an educational experience, Malabar Farm State Park provides a working farm setting near Berlin Heights. "Louis Bromfield was a conservationist and among many other things (including winning a Pulitzer) he was in the forefront of organic and self-sustaining gardening. This place is amazing!" writes Shelly S.
Water recreation: The region features several lakes with boating options. "Big campground. Boat docking is available. I just love love the beach lake," says Karrie Kat W. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park. Watercraft rentals are available at some locations during summer months.
What campers like
Free primitive sites: More adventurous campers appreciate the secluded options at Mohican State Park. "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites. There are 4 on the mountain bike trail and 6 on the horse trails, first come first serve, no reservations. love them!" shares John H.
Riverside camping: Some horse campgrounds near Berlin Heights, Ohio offer direct water access. "I am reviewing the primitive campground in the Hemlock Gorge. It is right alongside the river and at the bottom of the gorge. Listening to the river is what makes this place peaceful," explains Marci P. about Mohican's primitive camping area.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain their amenities well. According to Jenny K., Mohican offers "Clean tent camping. As far as tent camping goes, it does not get any easier than this. Everything is clean and well organized. Perfect for first time campers."
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate room to spread out. "The sites are nice and large with lots of trees throughout the park," reports Andrea F. about Mohican State Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for connectivity issues in some areas. Andrea F. notes about Mohican: "No cell service with Verizon at this park."
Seasonal site access: Winter camping requires preparation as some amenities close. "This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off," explains Andrea F. about off-season conditions.
Campground layout: Understanding the different camping sections helps choose appropriate sites. At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, "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," explains Michelle H.
Site reservation systems: Some areas operate on first-come basis. "A short distance from the main campground, the B class campground features first come availability, 'walk up' spots," shares Jared H. about Mohican State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families benefit from areas with multiple recreation options. At Pleasant Hill Lake Park, "Lots of activities: WhoaZone, boating, fishing, horseback riding, near Mohican Adventures for rafting, hiking," reports Korinne K.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences. "This place is amazing! (and would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!)" notes Shelly S. about Malabar Farm.
Playground access: For families with children, recreation areas provide entertainment. "The bike/walking paths for kids/adults is a great addition for campers with young kids," mentions Tina D. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park. Some facilities include multiple playgrounds strategically placed throughout.
Beginner-friendly sites: For families new to camping, some locations offer easier experiences. At Mohican State Park, "Perfect for first time campers," according to Jenny K., with organized facilities and clear guidance.
Tips from RVers
Fairground camping: For RVers seeking an overnight stay near horse campgrounds around Berlin Heights, Ashland Fairgrounds provides basic accommodations. "Ashland fairgrounds has $20 tent sites or $35 full hookups. You may need an extension cord. All back in sites," reports Charles K.
Extension cords: Several reviewers mention bringing longer power cords. "You may need an extension cord," notes Charles K. about the fairground sites, which can help when hookups are positioned farther from parking pads.
Winter camping considerations: Off-season RV camping requires preparation. Andrea F. explains that at Mohican State Park "water at the full hook up sites are turned off" during winter, though water remains available at the dump station.
Generator etiquette: When staying at non-electric sites, consider neighbors when using power. One camper at Malabar Farm notes: "We did run our generator during that day but kept it off at night so we didn't disturb other campers."