Mohican-Memorial State Forest dominates tent camping options near Butler, Ohio, spanning over 4,500 acres with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet. The forest's primitive campsites receive approximately 25-30 inches of annual rainfall, creating seasonal challenges for creek crossings and trail conditions. Winter camping is permitted at most sites, but water sources frequently freeze between December and February.
What to do
Seasonal activities: The forested landscape around Mohican State Park Campground offers different experiences throughout the year. Fall colors peak in mid-October, while winter camping provides solitude with temperatures typically between 20-40°F. A visitor noted, "Our first visit to the park was early in the camping season, and on a warm and beautiful spring weekend. The atmosphere was amazing in the park."
Water recreation: Campers can access the Clear Fork Branch of the Mohican River for fishing, swimming, and floating. During summer months, the river provides relief from heat. At Walhonding Hills Campground, located 22 miles south of Butler, "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
Trail navigation: Download trail maps before arrival as cell service is unreliable. The Mohican area contains over 25 miles of hiking paths with various difficulty levels. According to one camper at Park and Pack Campsite 10, "If you're unfamiliar w/ the Park & Pack system I found this PDF to be extremely useful. http://www.backpackohio.com/etrails/bpo_mohican.pdf."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Each primitive campsite offers different isolation levels. At Mohican-Memorial State Forest, campers appreciate sites positioned away from main trails. One camper at Park and Pack Campsite 10 mentioned, "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."
Water features: Many sites have stream access, important for longer stays requiring water filtration. Creeks run clearer in spring and after rainfall. A camper at Park and Pack Campsite 3 shared, "I stayed at Campsite 3, which was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it."
Wildlife encounters: The forest hosts white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times, particularly near water sources. Campers should properly store food as raccoons are common visitors.
What you should know
Site registration process: The Park and Pack registration system requires physical sign-up at the ranger station. One camper at Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1 advised, "Make sure you register for your site and do not camp illegally. It is an issue here and they are looking to make sure folks did register at the kiosk at the ranger station."
Navigation challenges: Many first-time visitors struggle finding specific campsites despite maps. Trail markers can be confusing or missing entirely. A camper noted, "I took the main trail head at the bridle parking lot but this isn't where you should go. The main trail head gets you to sites 1-3."
Access limitations: Creek water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite accessibility. After heavy rain, crossing points may become impassable. High-clearance vehicles may be needed for certain parking areas. One visitor cautioned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Selecting appropriate sites: For families with young children, choose sites with easier access. According to a visitor at Rivers Edge Camping Area, "The camp site is a short walk and was very nice. The porta potty was very big, clean and had hand sanitizer!"
Mobility considerations: Sites 4 and 10 offer the easiest access for families with mobility concerns. A reviewer described Campsite 4 as "great if your legs are tired after a long day of hiking or if you did too many hills that day. Or if you're a beginner camper, or family that want to try something new, it's easy to walk into and out of."
Group accommodations: Some sites better accommodate multiple tents for family camping. 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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Tent camping dominates near Butler, with few true RV sites in the immediate vicinity. Those requiring hookups should look at established campgrounds rather than forest sites. One RVer reported, "Stayed here a few times with just power at site. Was at main Camp ground with RV's all around. Seemed pretty popular yet was quiet enough."
Seasonal accessibility: RV camping options increase during summer months but decrease substantially from November through March. Road conditions for larger vehicles worsen after rainfall, particularly on forest access roads.
Alternative lodging: For those seeking tent camping near Butler with more amenities, established campgrounds provide options. "The campground itself is very well laid out. It's long and just a few rows deep with trees throughout, so you don't feel over crowded. You're never far from a restroom no matter where you are."
