Tent camping options around Kimbolton, Ohio span across a 40-mile radius, with the Tuscarawas River valley forming a central corridor through eastern Ohio's Appalachian foothills. Average summer temperatures in this region range from 60-85°F, with significant humidity during July and August that affects tent conditions. Local campgrounds typically sit at elevations between 800-1200 feet, with terrain characterized by moderate hills and mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Canoe access at Rivers Edge: Located near Massillon, this free campsite sits alongside the Tuscarawas River with convenient access for paddlers. A visitor noted, "Great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit." The site connects to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail for day hiking and has Ernie's Bicycle Shop 1.5 miles south for bike rentals.
ATV trail riding: Walhonding Hills Campground features on-property ATV trails suitable for various off-road vehicles. According to one seasonal camper, "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well." Located 35 miles west of Kimbolton, this site offers a different outdoor recreation option than the hiking-focused campgrounds.
Historic covered bridges: Camp near architectural landmarks at Hune Bridge Campground where a historic covered bridge sits adjacent to the campground. A camper explains, "Adorable little campground, with a historic covered bridge and lovely creek in the backyard. There are 4 campsites and a vault toilet that is relatively clean and well-stocked." The area features several other historic bridges within driving distance, along with fishing opportunities in nearby creeks.
What campers like
Privacy of backcountry sites: Park and Pack Campsite 10 offers secluded tent camping within Mohican-Memorial State Forest. A camper shared, "Site 10 is about 3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area. Well marked and easy to find. There are plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks." The site provides natural separation from RV camping areas and vehicle noise.
Water access campsites: Park and Pack Campsite 3 features streamside camping in Mohican-Memorial State Forest. One reviewer noted, "Campsite number 3 is also on a short creek crossing. Nothing to worry about with your pack on this August sunny day. It had plenty of space for tents and hammocks. It was close enough to hang out by the creek if you wanted." These sites require a creek crossing to access but reward campers with waterside tent locations.
Clean facilities at rustic sites: Pop's Place Camping maintains quality facilities despite its rustic setting. As one camper described, "Peaceful, safe, well kept, and a nice outdoor shower too!" Another motorcyclist mentioned, "The porta john and shower were very clean. The shower uses an on demand water heater." Sites cost $20 for tent camping as of August 2024, with firewood available for $5.
What you should know
Registration requirements: Mohican-Memorial State Forest's Park and Pack sites require in-person registration at the ranger kiosk before setting up camp. One experienced camper advises, "Make sure you get a reservation at the kiosk by the ranger station in the forest. Do not go to the state park as that is completely different." The kiosk location can be found at Co Rd 939, Perrysville, OH 44864.
Water availability challenges: Many tent campgrounds near Kimbolton lack reliable drinking water sources. At Hune Bridge Campground, a visitor warns, "No drinking water is available, so plan ahead from nearby sources." Campers should either filter water from streams or bring their own supply, particularly during summer months when natural water sources may run low.
Seasonal campground conditions: Late summer can bring dry conditions to the area's waterways. One Mohican State Park Campground visitor in September 2025 reported, "Part of the draw for me was the river running alongside, but it is bone dry." Weather patterns affect not only water access but also trail conditions, particularly on shared bridle paths after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Some Park and Pack sites are specifically suited for families new to tent camping. A reviewer recommends, "This campsite was the hardest for us to find but it is the easiest to get to in terms of walking. 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."
Recreational amenities: Family-friendly features can be found at select campgrounds despite their rustic nature. Pop's Place Camping offers activities beyond just camping. According to a visitor, "The common grass area has wood lounge chairs, common fire ring, playground, and cornhole boards... There is a basketball backboard near the current cabin if you happen to bring a basketball for your kids to use."
Crowding considerations: For the best tent camping near Kimbolton, Ohio with families, site selection timing matters. Mohican State Park Campground can get busy during peak season, with one camper noting, "The campsites are not as private as the pictures make it look. There are a LOT of campers and tents; it feels busy and crowded." Weekday visits or shoulder season camping provides more space and quieter conditions for families.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Kimbolton offer minimal to no services for RVs. At Rivers Edge Camping Area, a camper notes the primitive setup: "Portable toilet in parking lot. No running water but close to gas stations and restaurants." RVers should plan for boondocking conditions at most tent-oriented sites.
Road access considerations: Access roads to primitive campgrounds can present challenges for larger vehicles. A motorcyclist visiting Pop's Place Camping observed, "The road the campground is on is paved and the campground drive is decent gravel for street bikes." Many forest service roads leading to dispersed camping areas have seasonal maintenance limitations, particularly after winter or heavy rain events.
