Tent camping near Centerburg, Ohio offers primitive camping options in several forested areas across central Ohio. Located in Knox County at an elevation of 1,188 feet, the area features rolling hills, abundant creek systems, and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with temperatures between 45-70°F.
What to do
Creek exploration along trails: At Mohican State Park Campground, several campsites offer direct creek access. One camper noted that Site 2 was "right by the creek. The creek was clear and cool... Crossing the creek the water at this time was ankle high." The area features multiple interconnected water features for wading and exploration.
Test backpacking skills on short trails: Scioto Grove Metro Park provides ideal terrain for beginner backpackers to test equipment without committing to remote wilderness. As one reviewer mentioned, "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail." Trails range from 0.5 to 2 miles between sites, making them manageable even for those new to backpacking.
Night photography opportunities: The relative seclusion of Park and Pack sites creates excellent conditions for astrophotography due to reduced light pollution. A camper at Site 10 recommended exploring "a short 'trail' at the NE edge of the campsite that leads down to a ledge" for photography setups with clear views of the night sky.
What campers like
Secluded riverside camping: Park and Pack Campsite 3 sits beside a wide stream, offering natural water access. A winter camper described it as "beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it." This positioning creates natural white noise and cooling effects during warmer months.
Multiple tent setups at larger sites: Park and Pack Campsite 10 provides ample space for group camping. A reviewer mentioned, "This site was great for both hammocks and tents. You could have a small group here and not feel crowded." The site includes "plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks" with a lower ledge area for additional privacy.
Firewood provided at metro parks: Several campers appreciate that Scioto Grove Metro Park supplies firewood, saving pack weight. A recent visitor in 2024 confirmed, "Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood." The park maintains this amenity throughout their camping season, which typically runs weekends from April through October.
What you should know
Seasonal camping restrictions: Many primitive sites have limited availability throughout the year. At Scioto Grove, "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime," according to reviewers. Their backpacking sites operate primarily on Friday and Saturday nights during warmer months.
Registration requirements: All Park and Pack sites at Mohican require in-person registration. "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 one camper. Rangers actively monitor for unregistered camping and may issue citations.
Site closures reported: As of late 2023, some Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1 locations may have closed. A camper reported in October 2023: "THE FREE CAMPING IS CLOSED!!!!!! We went to the location of the office to fill out a slip for the free camping sites and they are all closed now." Call ahead to confirm current status.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for accessibility: For families with mobility concerns, certain sites offer easier access. One reviewer recommended specific locations: "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." Site 4 features a wide, relatively flat trail suitable for children and adults with limited mobility.
Safety considerations for creek proximity: When camping with children at creek-adjacent sites, maintain appropriate supervision. A camper at Site 2 noted it was "right by the creek" but "far enough away that I wouldn't be constantly worried about it. Still something to be mindful of when camping near water."
Download trail maps beforehand: Geneva Hills - Camp and Event Center and other locations often have limited cell reception. Several reviewers recommend downloading offline maps: "Make sure that you look for the red blazes on the trees at the start of the trail. I would recommend downloading the various bridle trails on the AllTrails app. The paper map provided at the trail head was missing some information."
Tips from RVers
Limited dispersed options for RVs: Most primitive camping near Centerburg restricts vehicle access. However, Walhonding Hills Campground offers sites with electric hookups and accommodates both tents and smaller RVs. A seasonal camper notes they have "a pool and atv trails on campground property" making it suitable for families with multiple recreation needs.
Water access limitations: Unlike developed campgrounds, most primitive sites require carrying in all water. One camper observed that Park and Pack Site 10 has "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. Packs were much lighter on the way out."
