8 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch offers horseback riding directly on site, allowing campers to enjoy equine activities without leaving the property. This KOA provides a variety of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots with full hookups, and cabin options for those who prefer not to rough it. The campground features electric hookups, water connections, sewer facilities, showers, and clean bathrooms. Camp amenities include fire rings, picnic tables, and a central location for purchasing firewood and supplies. The property is well-maintained with friendly staff to assist guests. Families return year after year for the convenient horse activities, making this a popular destination for those traveling with children who enjoy riding.
Trails surrounding the KOA provide opportunities for scenic horseback riding through the countryside. The area offers multiple state parks with equestrian facilities within reasonable driving distance, including Mohican State Park which features additional riding opportunities. Mohican Wilderness, located approximately 25 miles southwest, offers boat-in, drive-in and walk-in access with cabin options for those wanting to explore different horse trails. While some trails might have seasonal limitations, the KOA itself operates year-round for equestrian enthusiasts. Most campers find the camp store adequately stocked with essentials. The combination of on-site horseback riding and comfortable camping facilities makes this area particularly appealing to families with children interested in horse experiences without the commitment of bringing their own horses.
"The bathrooms are clean and include a laundry and sinks outside to wash your dishes. Campground hosts and staff are friendly and helpful. Sites are roomy and clean. Lots of variety."
"There is no WiFi and barely one bar of cell service; your best internet access is at the nice public library 7 miles away in Ravenna Sand beach is an easy walk from all camp sites and boat trailers can"
from $30 - $52 / night
Check Availability"Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly. Would def recommend anyone to go."
"Miles of well groomed horse trails available with creek crossings, steep hills and beautiful pine tree."
"As part of a nearly 200-mile bikepacking ride, this was our last stop! We spent 2 nights in their "Class B" area down in the Mohican River Valley and loved it."
from $27 - $220 / night
Check Availability"They are full of amenities like: horse back riding, shooting sports, canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more."
"We come back to MW each year and try to get the same sites (323-322) as they are very private with access to the water while still being super close to the store and walkable to the bathrooms:showers."
from $25 - $44 / night
Check Availability"Didn’t see much of the park on Friday, but Saturday we went exploring and saw the marina, beach, horse camp area, and walked some of the bridle trails."
"Positives: Lots are spacious
- Lots of activities: WhoaZone, boating, fishing, horseback riding, near Mohican Adventures for rafting, hiking
- Quiet and with friendly staff and seasonal campers
- Large"
from $27 / night
Check Availability"Bathrooms are open and close by. No showers. Very clean and quiet. There were 4 others staying here. All were nice. If you arrive after hours grab an envelope and drop payment in an envelope."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Not your typical going hiking kinda campground (there are trails but they are not “major”) you come here to step away from city life and tour a working farm. Ohio countryside at its best."
"Lots of hiking trails and a few sites boasting the filming locations for scenes from the movie Shawshank Redemption."
from $23 - $180 / night
Check Availability
GuideMiles of well groomed horse trails available with creek crossings, steep hills and beautiful pine tree. There’s a primitive horse camp as well, and places to tie horses at the entrance with high lines. Dogs are welcome to.
TravelerYou need to make reservations well in advance for the “primo” sites. The bathrooms are clean and include a laundry and sinks outside to wash your dishes. Campground hosts and staff are friendly and helpful. Sites are roomy and clean. Lots of variety. If you’re into hiking, disc golf, kayaking, fishing, equestrian pursuits, etc, this is the park for you.
Traveler3 Immaculate bath houses all with laundry facilities, all sites have electric (no f-ing generators) and many have have water and sewer hook ups. There is no WiFi and barely one bar of cell service; your best internet access is at the nice public library 7 miles away in Ravenna Sand beach is an easy walk from all camp sites and boat trailers can be parked on your camp site Boat launch has a big trailer parking lot, too. There are hiking, equestrian and mountain biking trails in the park and launching off paddle boards is ok at the boat launch or the nearby beach Friendly staff and camp hosts!
LegendAs part of a nearly 200-mile bikepacking ride, this was our last stop! We spent 2 nights in their "Class B" area down in the Mohican River Valley and loved it.
The oddly named “Class A” camping area offers everything from full-hook up camping slots for campers large and small, as well as just electric sites and 10 “walk-in” primitive sites, and cabins -- all of which are reservable. This area has all the bells and whistles of a modern campground with an environmental learning center, a nice outdoor pool, clean showers and bathrooms, an extensive playground and hiking and mountain biking trails right out the front door.
The “Class B” area offers 25 primitive sites on a first-come, first-served basis. It is almost 6 miles by road from the “A” services, but only a 2-mile flatish hike along the river trail. At these sites, there are only pit toilets and a water pump. Each site has a picnic table and a small fire ring. There is also a large group camping area just a few miles away from the primitive “Class B” area.
Tubing and canoeing are available within the park, but there are also several canoe outfitters in the area which provide rental / pick up services. The sheer number of these businesses makes me think that summer time can be crowded!!
Beautiful shaded trails meander all throughout the park and they boast some of the most challenging mountain biking in the mid-west, so read your trail maps. Hiking, equestrian and winter snowmobile trails also offer some great opportunities to get out and stretch your legs throughout the year. There is also a safe and convenient, bike lane / bike path into nearby Loudonville, which has a small grocery story and the usual fast-food restaurants.
Note: The only reason why this park didn't get a 5 star was due to their customer service. It was absolutely lousy, confusing, and the young folks working behind the counter acted as if they didn't want to be there and/or hadn't been trained. We almost left, but since we had cycled 42 miles to get there that day, we chose to stay and enjoyed our time in their Class B sites.
GuideNear the bridal trails you'll find Park and Pack site #4. It's a great spot 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. You'll find campsite #4 near the horse pavilion and a large wood barn where it looks that wood is provided. The trail itself is flat, wide and conditions depend on recent rainfall and horse use. It was mostly dry with some muddy areas to navigate around. You'll need to transport it back to camp somehow by pack or a cart/wheelbarrow... It has creative man made benches from logs/branches, a great view for sunset. Per paper maps it looks like it's among the other campsites but actually it's on its own and the opposite side of the multiple bridal trailhead.
TravelerMohican offers great accommodations and clean facilities. It’s not the most secluded spots but if you are looking for something tucked away there a few sites. The ability to tube down the river and walk back to your camp site was so much fun. Trailheads are located right of the grounds and the surrounding area is full of great things to do. If swimming is your thing the pool is clean and well maintained and situated between two ridgelines so you float and stare around at wooded hillsides. Great after a day of hiking or crushing the mountain biking trails. Grab a walk-in site or one by the river. No problems with hammocks in sites we chose but not all sites have enough mature trees.
LegendI found Malabar Farm in Lucas, OH on my way home from Mom’s house. Never heard of it before and I have been this way for over 20 years now. 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!) Not your typical going hiking kinda campground (there are trails but they are not “major”) you come here to step away from city life and tour a working farm. Ohio countryside at its best. Primitive camping with a gravel parking pad and water, fire ring, picnic table and hitching post. No reservations, this is a first come campground. There’s also a small rentable cabin open year round. Definitely worth a visit and very family oriented events. ( your teenager will roll their eyes at you but probably secretly enjoy the visit)
ScoutThis is a family friendly campground with lots to do. They offer on river and off river sites. Open grassy or wooded sites The sites 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. 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. If you are able to survive without technology and take a little step back into a simpler life style, this is the campground for you!
LegendRanger Review: Morsel Spork at West Branch State Park
**Campground Review: **
This state park was very welcome after our first two unlucky Ohio state park experiences. We had no trouble pulling in at 3 pm on a Sunday after Labor Day with no reservations and snagging a very nice spot (Site 50 backs up to Kirwan Reservoir). There are two loops that are on Jay Lake where there is a beach; it was understandable that there weren’t any water view spots that had not been reserved here. A very quiet park that is well-maintained with lots of amenities. Even the rumbling of the nearby trains was on the quiet side! Nice playground with toy stocked sandpit, volleyball net, cheap laundry ($3 per load, wash and dry), dishwashing sinks, showers, and clean bathrooms. There was even a step stool for kids to be able to reach the sinks. A staffed store(9am-7pm on Sunday, 11am-7pm Monday– Thursday and 9 am– 8:30 pm on Saturday) with basic supplies and, of course, t-shirts and sweatshirts. Some of the sites have a slight grade so be cautious when selecting. Many trees that provide separation between sites. Several short hiking trails. A side note: I only saw one non-Ohio license plate besides ours in the entire park, almost like it is an Ohio secret (not anymore!)
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**Product Review: **
As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I have the opportunity to test products. At this campground, I tested the large Morsel Spork from Outdoor Element. I have to admit that when I unpacked my box from Outdoor Elements, I was surprised at how LONG our morsel sporks were(we have other sporks that are much shorter so I was expecting these to be a similar size) but then I saw a photo of someone using it with their freeze-dried meal and it was an aha moment! No need to dirty another dish because this mighty spork can reach to the bottom of the pouch with no problem! These sporks are also sturdier than others we have used. The rubber scraper edge is a nice touch – would be great for getting the last delicious bits of meals from the freeze-dried meal pouches and I’m thinking also in glass or plastic containers. A very nice addition to our camping tools.
West Branch State Park Campground provides access to a 2,650-acre reservoir and sits on heavily forested land with multiple hiking trails through northern Ohio's woodlands. The park occupies a valley once inhabited by Delaware and Mingo Native Americans, with elevation changes that create varied terrain for both horseback riding and camping. Clinton-area campgrounds have waterfront options with varying amenities depending on distance from urban areas.
Horseback riding tours: Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch offers on-site horseback riding without leaving the campground. "Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly," notes Bradley B. This makes it one of the more convenient horse campgrounds near Clinton, Ohio for families wanting supervised riding experiences.
Kayaking and fishing: West Branch State Park Campground features multiple lake access points for water activities. "We took the inflatable kayaks out on the lake twice and it was so smooth and clear," reports Andrea F. The park has boat launch areas and campsites where you can keep your watercraft accessible.
Hiking and geocaching: Trail networks connect many campgrounds in the Clinton area. As Andrea F. discovered at West Branch, "It had some really nice hiking trails. We also played some disc golf and went geocaching." Most trails are moderate difficulty and range from 1-5 miles in length.
Waterfront sites: Mohican Wilderness receives consistently high marks for its river placement. "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," writes Andrea F. Many sites offer direct water access with enough space for larger camping setups.
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality varies across campgrounds, but several maintain high standards. At West Branch State Park, Teresa B. appreciated that "Very clean bathrooms! Beautiful sites with lake views." Campers frequently mention shower quality as a key consideration when choosing where to stay.
Large, private sites: Spacing between campsites ranks as a top priority for many visitors to equestrian campgrounds near Clinton. Shannon P. notes about Mohican Wilderness, "The sites are spacious and with the option to park your trailer where you want (grass sites)." This flexibility helps accommodate various trailer configurations common with horse camping.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. At West Branch, Andrea F. warns, "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." Bring leveling blocks even if sites are marked as level.
Reservation timing: Most popular horse campgrounds fill quickly, especially waterfront sites. Alisa G. advises for Mohican State Park Campground, "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" This is particularly important for holiday weekends and summer months.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. Andrea F. notes that Mohican State Park has "No cell service with Verizon at this park." Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected while camping.
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas that keep children entertained. At West Branch, Jill T. mentions, "Swimming area is alright, a little muddy in areas, but the beach is kept clean." Most beaches are open Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Playground quality: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground features multiple play areas across its grounds. "There are two basketball courts on either side of the park and a few playgrounds," notes Michelle H. These areas provide options for children when not participating in water or horse activities.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some facilities make extra effort to accommodate younger campers. Lee D. observed at West Branch State Park, "There was even a step stool for kids to be able to reach the sinks." Check campground websites for family-specific features that might make your stay more comfortable.
Hookup availability: Service connections vary widely between campgrounds. At Ashland Fairgrounds, Charles K. reports, "Ashland fairgrounds has $20 tent sites or $35 full hookups. You may need an extension cord. All back in sites." Most equestrian-focused campgrounds offer limited full hookup sites, so book early.
Off-season considerations: Some facilities reduce services outside peak season. Andrea F. notes about Mohican State Park, "This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off." Check with campgrounds directly about winter or shoulder season limitations.
Site specifications: RV campers should research specific site dimensions. At Malabar Farm State Park Campground, Shelly S. found "Primitive camping with a gravel parking pad and water, fire ring, picnic table and hitching post." Many sites near Clinton have length restrictions under 40 feet, limiting larger rigs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Clinton, OH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Clinton, OH is West Branch State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 66 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Clinton, OH?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Clinton, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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