West Branch State Park Campground spans 8,000 acres near Doylestown, Ohio, with 14 miles of shoreline along Kirwan Reservoir. The surrounding hardwood forests create natural shade for many campsites with elevations ranging from 950 to 1,100 feet. Camping season extends from April through October, with some primitive camping available year-round.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: West Branch State Park offers approximately 20 miles of bridle trails that connect with snowmobile routes in winter. "There are many scenic hiking trails at West Branch. Bridal trails are located on Esworthy Rd," explains Alisa G., who visits West Branch State Park Campground annually.
Kayaking and canoeing: Launch directly from waterfront sites at several campgrounds near Doylestown. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean," notes Alisa G. At Mohican Wilderness, "Canoeing, kayaking, tubing on the river. Swimming in the pond," are popular activities according to Michael.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes and rivers provide excellent fishing spots for various species. "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hookups, but a HUGE lakefront site," reports Rino S. at West Branch State Park Campground. "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access," adds Katelyn P.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer generous site dimensions compared to more crowded parks. "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," notes Andrea F. about Mohican Wilderness.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathroom and shower facilities receive positive mentions. "The bathrooms were a bit muddy in areas, but the beach is kept clean. There are little hideaway trails everywhere, making for a fun adventure!" shares Jill T. about West Branch State Park.
Horse-friendly environments: For equestrian camping near Doylestown, several parks accommodate riders and horses. "This is a family friendly campground with lots to do. They offer on river and off river sites," explains Shannon P. about Mohican Wilderness. At Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch, "Took the family there and loved it. It's clean and quiet. Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it," reports Bradley B.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches," warns Andrea F. about West Branch State Park.
Seasonal variations: Weather impacts facilities and trail conditions significantly throughout the year. At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, "The lake was high this weekend and the beach was a bit under water, but still fun. The boats and sounds of summer with children laughing and splashing while adults sit on the sand," reports Tina D.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies between parks with some having no service. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," notes Andrea F. about Mohican State Park Campground. At Mohican Wilderness, a camper appreciated "It was great to be screen free for a couple days," according to Heidi L.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activity areas: Some campgrounds offer specialized play zones. "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," shares Shannon P. about Mohican Wilderness.
Consider horse-riding options for children: Numerous stables offer beginner-friendly riding experiences. "This is our favorite KOA! I have 4 kids and return at least 1x per year. Great family owned KOA. Horseback riding on site," recommends Lisa D. about Malabar Farm State Park Campground.
Book well in advance: Family-friendly sites fill quickly during peak season. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park. She adds, "The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers."
Tips from RVers
Water fill stations: Be aware of design issues at some parks. "The water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full. This was okay for a short weekend but not good planning from who ever designed the park," cautions Andrea F. about her West Branch visit.
Extension cord needs: Power access points may require additional equipment. "You may need an extension cord. All back in sites," advises Charles K. about Ashland Fairgrounds where camping costs "$20 tent sites or $35 full hookups."
Site selection for large rigs: Some areas accommodate big rigs better than others. "We stayed mostly in area E and the new F side of the campground. The new F sites have concrete pads and plenty of space. Only lacking in mature trees to offer shade," recommends Michelle H. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park.