Mohican State Forest offers diverse equestrian camping opportunities near Burbank, Ohio, with extensive trail networks covering over 5,000 acres of mixed hardwood forest. The region sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with terrain characterized by rolling hills, ravines, and the Clear Fork branch of the Mohican River. Weather patterns typically feature warm, humid summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool springs and falls ideal for trail riding.
What to do
Horseback trail riding at Pleasant Hill: The trail system connects with natural landmarks. "Lots of hiking! Even saw a bald eagle this trip... No cell service with Verizon at this park," mentions Andrea F. about Mohican State Park Campground.
Swimming and water activities: Cool off after trail rides at designated swimming areas. "Beautiful campsites on the water and near it. Playgrounds, cabins, camper cabins, tent sites & camper sites... During the summer I hear it gets pretty busy with people tubing on the river," notes Renée C. from West Branch State Park Campground.
Canoe and kayak: Many campgrounds offer river access for paddling. "We go every year and do the 20 mile kayaking trip, such a nice little spot along the river & the best way to kick off summer!" shares Lexi K. about Mohican Wilderness.
Visit historical sites: Explore nearby historical attractions between trail rides. "We also did a house tour and learned about who Louis Bromfield was and why he was so important to the area," reports Andrea F. about Malabar Farm State Park Campground.
What campers like
Large, private campsites: Many equestrian campgrounds offer spacious sites for rigs and horses. "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," notes Andrea F. about Mohican Wilderness.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and shower facilities matter to horse campers. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly! 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," advises Alisa G. from West Branch State Park.
Nature observation: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound. "I love this campground. Nice hiking trails with a covered bridge, overlook and waterfalls. The sites are nice and large with lots of trees throughout the park," says Andrea F. about Mohican State Park.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many equestrian campgrounds welcome families. "This is a family friendly campground with lots to do. They offer on river and off river sites... They are full of amenities like: horse back riding, shooting sports, canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more," explains Shannon P. from Mohican Wilderness.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance planning. "We called last minute and it was on a 1st come, we hit the road quick. Great Lake close to rafting on Mohican river," reports Bobby C. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground.
Limited cell service: Be prepared for connectivity issues. "Very easy to find... the campsite was very beautiful, right on the river... also we didn't have any cell service but I was not expecting it. It was great to be screen free for a couple days," shares Heidi L. about Mohican Wilderness.
Site terrain variations: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "On first impression we were not impressed with this park... our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches," warns Andrea F. about West Branch State Park.
Weather considerations: Be prepared for seasonal conditions. "There are many scenic hiking trails at West Branch. Bridal trails are located on Esworthy Rd. West Branch is our favorite campground and we make sure to visit every year," notes Alisa G.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with designated children's areas. "The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers... There are playgrounds for the children. An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," shares Alisa G. from West Branch.
Educational opportunities: Some horse campgrounds offer learning experiences. "I found Malabar Farm in Lucas, OH on my way home from Mom's house... 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! (and would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!)," recommends Shelly S. about Malabar Farm State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Water features provide relief during hot rides. "Campsites are spacious and with the option to park your trailer where you want (grass sites). They are full of amenities like: horse back riding, shooting sports, canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more," describes Shannon P. about Mohican Wilderness.
Horse-friendly experiences: Opportunities for children to interact with horses. "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. about Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check which sites offer appropriate connections. "Very large property so having a golf cart is almost a necessity... I recently stayed 2 nights on site 304 which was electric only by choice and when we return we will opt for full hook up since those sites look brand new," advises Korinne K. from Pleasant Hill Lake Park.
Water access points: Know where to fill tanks and access water for horses. "First time at this park I can see why it's always booked up. It seems like the sites are good sized but some are on slopes even the pads so make sure to bring stuff to level," advises Joe I. about West Branch State Park.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain. "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!" shares Rino S. from West Branch State Park.