Primitive tent camping options near Delaware, Ohio offer backpackers and tent campers several secluded spots within a 45-minute drive. Mohican Memorial State Forest maintains ten walk-in Park and Pack sites throughout its 4,600-acre woodland area with elevations ranging between 900-1,200 feet. Most primitive sites receive limited cell service and require campers to haul in their own water, particularly during hot summer months when daily temperatures can reach the upper 80s.
What to do
Creek exploration: Park and Pack Campsite 3 features sites beside streams where campers can cool off in summer. "This site was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it," notes Ryan R. The site offers both solitude and water access.
Gear testing practice runs: Backpackers use these sites to test equipment before longer adventures. At Scioto Grove Metro Park, "You can reserve spaces to backpack along the rei water trail and stay the night to test gear. Not huge, no crazy obstacles but great for last minute trips close to the city," says Neal C.
Rope bridge crossing: Scioto Grove provides unique terrain features for families and outdoor enthusiasts. "Backpacking sites, rope bridge crossing over a creek that kids and adults would love to explore. Wide trails, grass fields and woods that are beautiful all seasons," reports Karen K.
What campers like
Privacy at less crowded sites: The Park and Pack sites offer significant separation from other campers. "Site 10 is about 3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area. Well marked and easy to find. There are plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks," explains Ryan R. at Park and Pack Campsite 10.
Provided firewood: Some sites include this practical amenity. "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," explains Susan G. about Scioto Grove Metro Park.
Creek-side locations: Water access ranks high among camper preferences. "The creek was clear and cool. It has a good mix of space for tents and hammocks," says Kenpocentaur K. about Mohican Memorial State Forest, adding that larger groups could camp without feeling crowded.
What you should know
Registration process: Mohican Memorial Forest Park and Pack Site 1 requires specific check-in procedures. "Make sure you register for your site and do not camp illegally... Do get to the clip board early as these sites are popular. No reservation system so you really don't know which one you will be able to get when you drive up to the forest," explains Kenpocentaur K.
Site accessibility variations: Some primitive sites require more hiking than others. "If you have any mobility issues this is the second best camp site to go to as most of it is along the wide access road and mountain bike trail," notes a camper about Site 10.
Limited facilities: Campers must plan for total self-sufficiency. "All of the Park and Pack camp sites do not have a bathroom... So do leave no trace of your bathroom habits," reminds one reviewer. Water sources may need filtering due to potential contamination from nearby bridle trails.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For children or those with limited hiking stamina, select closer walk-in options. "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," notes Kenpocentaur K. about Park and Pack Campsite 4.
Book sites well in advance: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park," mentions Anna S. about Scioto Grove.
Pack adequate water: No drinking water exists at most primitive sites. "The only con I would give the site is there's 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," shares Ryan R.
Tips from RVers
Consider hybrid camping options: For groups with mixed camping preferences, Walhonding Hills Campground offers both tent and RV sites. "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well," notes Carrie H. This allows tent campers to access more amenities while maintaining a primitive experience.
Check seasonal closures: Some of the best tent camping near Delaware has limited availability. "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime," mentions Joaquim P. about Scioto Grove Metro Park, adding that this can make free dispersed camping in Ohio challenging to find.
