Tent campsites near Chesterville, Ohio center around Mohican-Memorial State Forest, where primitive camping options allow visitors to experience the area's mixed hardwood forest ecosystem. Located at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, the region features rolling hills with moderate temperature fluctuations between seasons. During summer months, nighttime temperatures typically drop to the 50s while daytime highs reach the 80s, creating favorable conditions for overnight camping adventures.
What to do
Creek exploration: The streams running through Mohican-Memorial State Forest provide natural water features for campers to enjoy. One camper noted, "The creek was clear and cool. It was also far enough away that I wouldn't be constantly worried about it. Still something to be mindful of when camping near water."
Sunset viewing: Several camping spots offer scenic views of sunset through the forest canopy. A visitor to Park and Pack Site 10 mentioned, "The sunset photo is by the entrance of the parking lot to the campsite. This is the 2nd easiest campsite to walk into out of the 10."
Trail hiking: The Scioto Grove Metro Park trail system connects to multiple backpacking sites, offering short but practical hiking opportunities. A camper explained, "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit."
Water activities: Some campgrounds feature swimming areas with amenities for children. At Tee Pee Family Campground, a visitor reported, "The pond was fantastic. Has a large inflatable slide and a dock that you can jump off of in the middle. Kids loved it."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many Park and Pack locations offer secluded camping spots away from other visitors. At Park and Pack Campsite 10, a camper shared, "This site was great for both hammocks and tents. You could have a small group here and not feel crowded. The camp fire set up is awesome."
Multiple setup options: Many sites accommodate various shelter types. One camper at Campsite 10 noted, "There are plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks. After my daughter and I set up camp near the fire ring we explored and found spots below the SE edge."
Fire ring placement: The designated fire areas are thoughtfully positioned at most sites. A visitor to Park and Pack Campsite 3 mentioned, "You have the official fire ring and also the fire ring that folks have created from river rocks. You should use the official fire ring as rangers will not be pleased with other fire rings."
Free camping: Several tent campsites near Chesterville cost nothing to use. A Scioto Grove Metro Park visitor commented, "Free reserve ahead weekend backpacking campsites. All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided. Some have log seating and some do not."
What you should know
Registration requirements: Self-registration is mandatory at the forest kiosk. A visitor to 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."
Trail navigation challenges: Some campsite trails are poorly marked and difficult to locate. One camper shared, "Personally the directions on the kiosk where you sign in are misleading and to me really just plain wrong. The directions were correct once we got to the trailhead BUT there was no way to know where the trail head was."
Map resources: Digital maps prove more reliable than paper versions in some cases. A reviewer recommended, "I would recommend downloading the various bridle trails (Mohican) on the AllTrails app. The paper map provided at the trail head was missing some information."
Limited amenities: Facilities are minimal at most primitive sites. A camper at Mohican State Park noted, "Being the middle of summer that was quite a bit for my daughter and me. Packs were much lighter on the way out."
Tips for camping with families
Select beginner-friendly sites: Some locations offer easier access for families with young children. A visitor to Walhonding Hills Campground shared, "Wouldn't camp anywhere else. They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
Consider accessibility needs: Certain sites provide better access for those with mobility concerns. A camper recommended, "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."
Weather preparation: Summer storms can affect creeks and trails significantly. One visitor advised, "Crossing the creek the water at this time was ankle high. No cell phone service for Verizon at this time."
Plan for emergencies: Limited cell service means emergency preparation is essential. A camper noted, "Cell phone coverage with Verizon was very limited out here. Download your maps before you go."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: Some RV campgrounds close during winter months. A visitor to Tee Pee Campground shared, "Other than the pond, it was just meh. This campground consists of a lot of permanent sites and a LOT of golf carts going around all throughout the day."
Site spacing awareness: RV sites at some campgrounds position units very close together. One camper noted, "Sites are close together. Our fire pit is less than 3 feet away from the next camper."
Bathroom facilities: Access to restrooms varies widely between campgrounds. A reviewer pointed out, "2 bathhouses for the entire campground. And it's a decent walk to get to them if you are just there for a weekend."
