Tent camping near Berlin Heights, Ohio provides access to secluded woodland sites across a varied terrain of hills, forests, and waterways. The region sits within the glaciated Allegheny Plateau, characterized by rolling hills and stream-cut valleys that create natural boundaries between campsites. Many primitive camping areas remain open during winter months, though access roads may become difficult to navigate during snow or heavy rainfall.
What to do
Creek exploration and water activities: Park and Pack Campsite 3 at Mohican-Memorial State Forest offers sites near flowing water. "Campsite number 3 is also on a short creek crossing. Nothing to worry about with your pack on this August sunny day. It was close enough to hang out by the creek if you wanted," notes one camper who enjoyed the proximity to water.
Mountain biking on forest trails: The network of trails near many primitive sites accommodates various skill levels. A visitor to campsite 10 mentioned, "We only saw a hiker while hiking in and heard mountain bikers riding down the trail NW of Site 10." These trails connect multiple camping areas throughout the forest.
Winter camping opportunities: Several tent sites remain accessible during colder months for experienced campers. "After getting to the Ranger kiosk everything was pretty self explanatory. I stayed at Campsite 3, which was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream," reported a camper who did a winter overnight trip.
What campers like
Private, secluded tent sites: Campers consistently praise the isolation of primitive sites in the Berlin Heights region. At Park and Pack Campsite 10, visitors appreciate the layout: "Take a walk down a dirt beaten path with mature trees towering and hang a right and the path gets more eroded from rains, then you go up a slight steep hill and a big area is open for several tents to be set up."
Room for group camping: Several sites accommodate multiple tents without feeling crowded. At Hidden Hollow Camp, a visitor reported, "We have camped here multiple times with out scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine."
Self-registration system: The flexibility of the registration system appeals to spontaneous campers. "It is nice no official check in and check out time like you have at the state park campsites. However, the early bird does get the worm or in this case the camp site," explains one Mohican-Memorial State Forest visitor.
What you should know
Registration requirements: Always check in at designated kiosks before setting up camp. "Make sure to sign in at the kiosk, you can find it here: 950 ODNR Mohican Road 60 (County Road 939), Perrysville, Ohio 44864," advises a camper. "There's no reservations, you show up, see what sites are available, sign in and drive to the appropriate parking area."
Trail navigation challenges: First-time visitors often struggle with finding specific campsites. One Mohican State Park Campground visitor warned, "The directions were correct once we got to the trailhead BUT there was no way to know where the trail head was or what the name of it was, nothing."
Pack-in requirements: Most tent sites near Berlin Heights require campers to carry gear from parking areas. "Site 10 is about 3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area. Well marked and easy to find," notes a camper, while another adds "The last 1/4 mile of the road is pretty rutted, so if you have a low profile vehicle you may need to park at the lower area."
Water supply planning: No potable water exists at most primitive sites. A visitor cautioned, "The only con I would give the site is there's no water source, so you have to pack in all your water needs. Being the middle of summer that was quite a bit for my daughter and me."
Tips for camping with families
Mobility considerations: Some sites offer easier access for children or those with limited mobility. "This is the easiest and safest to get to if you have any issues with mobility. It is almost a rails and trails walk into this campsite," writes a visitor to Park and Pack Campsite 3.
Site selection for beginners: First-time tent campers with children should consider sites with minimal hiking required. "If you're a beginner camper, or family that want to try something new, it's easy to walk into and out of," notes one reviewer about certain sites.
Space for kids to explore: Families appreciate sites with room for children to move around safely. A visitor to Heritage Farms mentioned, "lots of room for kiddos to run wild," highlighting the open areas available at some tent camping locations.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Most tent camping locations near Berlin Heights lack RV amenities. Heritage Farms accommodates tents primarily, with a camper noting, "The shelter was clean, had a picnic table, and trash can. Porta johns were available, though not very close."
Overnight alternatives: During inclement weather, some campers opt for vehicle camping. One visitor shared, "I packed up in the morning and spent the next night in my Outback in the parking lot, which worked out because it rained and so I didn't have to deal with packing up wet gear."
