The Mohican region near Butler, Ohio sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation and features a mix of rolling hills, limestone formations, and dense deciduous forests. Water access defines many camping spots near Butler, Ohio with several creeks and the Mohican River cutting through the landscape. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
River activities: 7-20 mile routes available at Mohican Wilderness where visitors can choose various water adventures. "We took advantage of their seven mile canoe trip which was rich with scenery and again, given the time we had choosen to go, we enjoyed much solitude on the river which took about 2.15 hours to traverse in our canoe," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking: Technical trails accessible directly from Charles Mill Lake Park Campground. The landscape features moderate elevation changes suitable for intermediate riders. A camper mentions: "There is a lake with a boat launch near by a playground and beach for families to swim. Kid friendly activities available while we were there."
Disc golf: 18-hole course at Mount Gilead State Park with challenging terrain. The course incorporates natural features and requires various throwing techniques. "This was laid out to be a crazy course and included repelling ropes!" reports a camper about the unique course design.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Over 1/4 acre at some locations like Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins where campers have room to spread out. "The primitive sites are literally carved out of the side of a hill. The site we chose was on a plateau overlooking the lake and I'd recommend that to anyone!" writes one reviewer.
Free backcountry options: 10 sites throughout the forest require no reservation fee. "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," explains a frequent visitor.
Indoor amenities: Swimming available year-round at some campgrounds even during colder months. "The campgrounds covers all the basics. We fished and swam in the indoor pool which was not heated at the time. Across the street they have a Canoe livery, mini golf, go carts, ropes course and lots more," says one camper.
What you should know
Seasonal facilities: Bathroom access varies throughout the year with limited options in winter. At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, "5 camp areas, but only 2 have shower houses and flush toilets. Well over half of the camper sites are 'seasonal,' and some of those folks seem to resent transient campers."
Creek crossings: Access to some sites requires navigating small waterways. "Crossing the creek the water at this time was ankle high. No cell phone service for Verizon at this time," reports a camper describing conditions at a primitive site.
Registration requirements: Sign-in protocols differ between state park and state forest locations. "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," warns an experienced camper.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated swimming areas: Kid-friendly beaches available at several locations with varying depths. "Great entertainment too. New shower houses by the beach. Great staff. Very friendly and helpful," notes a visitor to Mount Gilead State Park Campground.
Educational activities: Craft demonstrations offered seasonally. "They also have little shops that allows visitors to watch loom and black smith demonstrations and the little ones can participate in candle and leather making," explains a camper with children.
Playground distribution: Multiple play areas scattered throughout larger campgrounds. "Large campground. Boat docking is available. I just love love the beach lake. Great entertainment too. New shower houses by the beach," writes a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Concrete pads available at newer sections of Butler-Mohican KOA. "The staff are very nice, they escort you to your campsite and offer to guide you if needed. The pool closed Labor Day weekend so that was disappointing. Lots of things to do in the area, but again a bit of a drive to get there."
Hookup variations: Electric-only sections often provide more spacious and shaded sites than full-hookup areas. "Our site had a deck right behind the camping pad because the site has a descent slope. The fire pit was down the slope which was cool being out of site from walkers," notes an RVer.
Pull-through availability: Limited options for larger rigs require advance booking. "Our pull through site was gravel. The staff is friendly and the indoor pool and shower houses were amazing. The sites seemed a little small so it might feel crowded during peak season," cautions one RVer.
