Equestrian camping near Danville, Ohio features diverse terrain situated within the Mohican Valley region at elevations between 900-1,200 feet. The area receives approximately 44 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F, creating lush forest conditions. Winter camping remains available at select locations when temperatures drop below freezing, though water access becomes limited.
What to Do
Horseback riding trails: Mohican Wilderness offers extensive trail options connecting directly to forest areas. "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. Quiet neighbors and friendly staff plus everything is mowed and well maintained," notes Andrea F. from Mohican Wilderness.
Kayaking and river trips: The Mohican River provides water recreation opportunities with varying difficulty levels. "We go every year and do the 20 mile kayaking trip, such a nice little spot along the river & the best way to kick off summer!" writes Lexi K. about the popular paddling routes.
Hiking access: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground connects to multiple trail systems. "We arrived Friday late afternoon and set up in the rain. 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," reports Andrea F., highlighting the integrated trail network.
Primitive backpacking: Free hike-in camping sites exist for those seeking more solitude. "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 John H.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites. "The camp sites are spacious and private, surrounded by trees and brush. Beautiful walking trails. There's also a great mountain biking trail in the vicinity," notes Catherine about Alum Creek State Park Campground.
River-adjacent camping: Riverside sites provide direct water access. "I am reviewing the primitive campground in the Hemlock Gorge. It is right alongside the river and at the bottom of the gorge. I always try to go to the end of the long campground where I feel it is quieter," shares Marci P. describing Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Diverse accommodation options: The area offers various camping experiences from primitive to full-service. "As far as tent camping goes, it does not get any easier than this. Everything is clean and well organized. Perfect for first time campers," explains Jenny K. about the beginner-friendly options.
Off-season tranquility: Winter camping provides a different experience. "Another Thanksgiving spent in our camper and it was so nice and relaxing. There were more campers than expected this weekend. I guess everyone likes to social distance in their campers too. Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year," shares Andrea F.
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between providers. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," notes Andrea F. about certain areas, while other campgrounds report better connectivity with different carriers.
Water availability varies seasonally: Delaware State Park Campground and others adjust water access during colder months. "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," explains a winter visitor.
Reservation timing: First-come sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "First come first serve in the winter. One heated bathroom with a shower is open in the winter," notes Renée C. about seasonal availability.
Site selection strategy: Each campground has specific loops or areas offering more privacy. "Go to the back of the campground. It is very quite," advises John L. about finding secluded spots.
Tips for Camping with Families
Creek exploration opportunities: Several campgrounds feature small waterways children enjoy. "Small campground, lower camp sites are pretty close together but it's treed and shady with a creek running through. No one was here during our stay so felt like we had the campground to ourselves," shares Megan P. about Blue Rock State Park Campground.
Beginner-friendly camping loops: Certain areas cater to new campers with easier access. "All different kinds of campsites and the people at the camp office will be more than willing to help you out. They have sites that are all grass, sites with grass and woods and sites that are all woods," explains Joshua E.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple areas offer chances to see deer, birds, and other animals. "Just driving in saw turkeys and 'turkets':) and two 6 point bucks," reports Shelly S., highlighting the wildlife encounters possible.
Activity planning: Malabar Farm State Park Campground offers unique agricultural experiences. "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!)" suggests Shelly S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds have sloped sites requiring adjustment. "Site required minimal leveling. We were on like a hilltop and overlooked lower level RV circle," notes Linda B. about the terrain at some locations.
Water access points: Most campgrounds provide central water access rather than at each site. "No full hookup but potable water available throughout camping circles. We were by a water spout and every time an RV/Trailer came in they of course had to fill up," explains one reviewer.
RV size compatibility: Different loops accommodate various RV lengths. "This state park spans over 2,000 acres and is just north of the cute Ohio town of Delaware. The 'pod' layout of the campground made for large campsites (some sites are over 90 feet in length and well suited for large RV's) with good separation between sites," details Nancy W.
Electric hookup availability: Check amperage options when booking. "All RV sites have 50A/30A electric. Limited sites have full hook-up. There is a dump station near the entrance," notes Brian B.
