Tent camping near Dover, Ohio offers access to several backcountry sites within Mohican-Memorial State Forest, which encompasses 4,525 acres of forested terrain. The Clear Fork Branch of the Mohican River flows through the region, providing water access at select camping areas and maintaining temperatures that average 85°F in summer and 45°F in spring and fall. Some dispersed camping options require creek crossings that become more challenging after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The Park and Pack Campsite 10 connects to multiple trails in Mohican-Memorial State Forest. "The whole area is beautiful and scenic. I'd like to head back in the fall and or winter to enjoy the view of the gorge in different seasons," writes Ryan R. The site connects to mountain biking trails as noted by one camper: "We only saw a hiker while hiking in and heard mountain bikers riding down the trail NW of Site 10."
Creek exploration: Many campsites offer creek access for wading or filtering water. At Park and Pack Campsite 3, one camper noted, "It was close enough to hang out by the creek if you wanted." The stream crossings add adventure but require preparation, as Ryan R. states: "Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it."
Christmas tree farm wandering: Heritage Farms offers a unique camping experience among growing Christmas trees. According to Brady R., "It's hard to not give it any lower than 5 stars when you literally camp within a Christmas tree farm. It's a dream." The farm provides wagons to transport gear to sites, making the experience more accessible.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: The Park and Pack sites in Mohican-Memorial State Forest provide privacy that distinguishes them from standard campgrounds. As one camper described, "We loved loved this site. We felt so spoiled as it isn't the crowded state parking campsite that you often think of when camping." This privacy extends across multiple sites.
Easy access options: For those with mobility concerns, certain Mohican-Memorial State Forest sites offer better accessibility. As one reviewer explained about Site #4: "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." Karen K. confirmed this assessment: "The trail itself is flat, wide and conditions depend on recent rainfall and horse use."
Waterside camping: Riverside options exist at Rivers Edge Camping Area, where campers appreciate the natural setting. "Great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit," writes Whiskey B. The site offers both convenience and natural beauty without requiring difficult hikes.
What you should know
Registration requirements: All Park and Pack sites require sign-in at the forest office kiosk, not the state park office. One camper emphasized this distinction: "Make sure that you look for the red blazes on the trees at the start of the trail. 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."
Cell phone limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campsites. At many Mohican-Memorial Forest sites, campers report, "No cell phone service for Verizon at this time." Sites closer to populated areas offer better reception, as one camper at Heritage Farms noted: "I had limited cell phone signal while here but this had the best signal out of the 10 sites."
Water access considerations: Many sites require campers to pack in all water needs. Ryan R. mentioned this limitation at Park and Pack Site 10: "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. Packs were much lighter on the way out."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For camping with children, select sites with minimal hiking. Abbey E. described the Walhonding Hills Campground: "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well. The 4th of July celebration is better than any other town fireworks I've ever seen."
Consider sheltered options: At Heritage Farms, protected structures offer advantages for families. One camper reported, "It did get very chilly when we were there," making shelters valuable. Another noted: "We stayed in a lean to and it was so much fun! The bathroom was a Port o potty but it was very well maintained and clean."
Seek out running space: Some sites provide open areas for children. A Heritage Farms visitor observed: "Really lovely camp spot. Beautiful views and surroundings. Extremely close proximity to CVNP. Lots of room for kiddos to run wild." These open spaces contrast with more densely forested camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Limited tent camping areas accommodate RVs, with most backcountry sites accessible only by foot. One camper at Mohican State Park Campground noted: "The campsites are not as private as the pictures make it look. There are a LOT of campers and tents; it feels busy and crowded. We did like the paved pull-through site and were close to the river."
Utility access: Where available, electric and water hookups vary in reliability. Kevin C. commented on Mohican State Park Campground: "They have regular electric and full hookup sites. Electric was good and people were friendly. Bathrooms close to all campsites. Showers not clean and broken; hot water questionable."
