Tent campsites near Danville, Ohio generally require backpackers to carry their water supplies, as natural sources can be seasonally unreliable. The surrounding Wayne-Hoosier National Forest region sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for primitive camping experiences. Winter camping is permitted at most locations, though access roads may become impassable after heavy snowfall.
What to do
Trail access from sites: Park and Pack campsites at Mohican-Memorial State Forest connect to multiple bridle trails identified by color blazes. One visitor noted, "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."
Creek exploration: Campsite 2 offers direct water access for cooling off during summer months. A camper described it as having "a creek that 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."
River tubing: In hot weather, the Mohican River provides natural relief from campsites. As one visitor to Mohican State Park Campground mentioned, "Probably the least done and most worth it item to do is the river. If you are in the park there are areas to walk up river and jump in with a tube and float back down to the camp areas and get out. River was COLD, but very nice in 90 degree heat."
Sunset viewing: Several campsites offer evening views worth planning around. At Park and Pack Campsite 4, a visitor noted it "has creative man-made benches from logs/branches, a great view for sunset."
What campers like
Natural separation: While some campsites feel isolated, others offer community at a distance. At Park and Pack Campsite 10, one camper shared, "We had another camper over by that spot so I didn't take pictures of his gear. He had a hammock and tent set up. He was camping at the spot for a week for his vacation."
Range of site difficulties: Campsites vary in accessibility, with some better suited for beginners. "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," reported a visitor about Campsite 4, adding it's ideal "if your legs are tired after a long day of hiking."
Weekend atmosphere: Seasonal timing affects the overall camping experience. A spring visitor to Mohican State Park 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. Everyone in the campground seemed to be relaxed and having a good time."
Group facilities: For larger organized camping trips, Hidden Hollow Camp offers specialized amenities. "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine," shared one group leader.
What you should know
Registration changes: The free Park and Pack camping system has undergone changes. A recent visitor warned, "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. We ended up staying at the state park campground for $33 which is not too bad."
Unpredictable occupancy: The first-come registration system can lead to confusion. One camper at Park and Pack Site 10 reported, "I planned to stay Friday and Saturday. I went to the kiosk, and happily discovered no one was at this site, which was my preferred site. I triple-checked. But when I got there, there were about 10 men, in 4-5 tents already set up."
Site visibility: Some primitive campsites can be difficult to locate. A camper noted about Site 1, "A well hidden campsite. We almost walked past it and didn't even know it. Toledo another hiker on the trail was still looking for it and never found it."
Trail conditions: Terrain varies seasonally, with creek crossings potentially challenging. "This one does have a creek crossing after you leave the camp site. It was the deepest part of the creek and muddy leading up to it. This is because the trail is also the horse trail in the forest," observed one hiker.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: First-time backcountry campers with children should consider specific sites. One camper recommended, "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."
Water crossing considerations: When camping with children, evaluate creek depths carefully. A visitor to Rivers Edge Camping Area noted their site offered "great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit."
Proximity to amenities: For families wanting comfort options, positioning matters. "We had a beautiful spot in the water," shared a camper who paid for a state park site, while another noted the Rivers Edge site was "only 12 minute drive over to Pro Football Hall of Fame."
Seasonal activities: Summer visits can include pool access at specific locations. One visitor to Walhonding Hills Campground shared, "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
Tips from RVers
State park positioning: RV sites at Mohican State Park offer specific layout benefits. One RVer noted, "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."
Facility quality variations: Bathroom cleanliness appears inconsistent in reviews. A recent visitor stated, "Electric was good and people were friendly. Bathrooms close to all campsites. Showers not clean and broken; hot water questionable."
Terrain considerations: Road access to some sites requires appropriate vehicles. One camper reported, "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."
