Glenmont, Ohio sits between the rolling hills of Mohican country and is home to several equestrian-friendly campgrounds. The area features diverse terrain for riders, with elevation changes from 900 to 1,300 feet throughout the region. Local horse trails range from gentle creek-side paths to challenging ridge routes, with many campgrounds maintaining year-round accessibility for equestrians except during severe winter conditions.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Mohican State Park offers extensive riding opportunities with varied terrain. "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," notes Nicole K. about Mohican State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Many equestrian campsites provide river access for fishing after trail riding. "Beautiful campsites on the water and near it. Playgrounds, cabins, camper cabins, tent sites & camper sites," describes Renée C. about the fishing opportunities at Mohican State Park.
Evening entertainment: During summer months, planned activities keep riders engaged after trail time. At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, "Fun times during Covid-19 on Memorial Day Weekend. The bike/walking paths for kids/adults is a great addition for campers with young kids. The shower houses are clean as well as the grounds," reports Tina D.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The region's horse camps offer ample room for trailers and corrals. "The sites are spacious and with the option to park your trailer where you want (grass sites). They are full of amenities like: horse back riding, shooting sports, canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more," explains Shannon P. about Mohican Wilderness.
River proximity: Waterfront sites allow horses to cool off after rides. "We tent camped at one of the primitive riverfront sites. Site 810 in the Narrows. Our site was a little muddy and a little smaller than other sites but overall we were very happy with the campground," shares CampgroundKaren about Mohican Wilderness.
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, most horse camps maintain good amenities. At Malabar Farm State Park Campground, "Primitive camping with a gravel parking pad and water, fire ring, picnic table and hitching post. No reservations, this is a first come campground," explains Shelly S.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many equestrian camps have limited services in winter. Andrea F. notes about Mohican State Park: "Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year. 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."
Primitive options: Some horse camps offer more secluded experiences. "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.
Special events: Equestrian gatherings occur throughout the season. "We came here during the 2024 River of Fire Event. The campground was packed but you couldn't tell because the sites were all so spacious! Half the sites are right on the river which gives a good view and great place to fish and kayak," reports Julia A. about Mohican Wilderness.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for creek exploration: Kids enjoy water access between trail rides. At Salt Fork State Park Campground, "Dog park!! and right on the lake!! Found this by mistake on our way out, and the dogs loved it. Access to lake, a beach, well fenced," shares Staci R.
Check seasonal activity schedules: Many equestrian camps offer family programs. "Great campground. Lots of activities for all ages to do. Canoeing, kayaking, tubing on the river. Swimming in the pond. Game room and miniature golf. Trails to hike. Lots of summer activities scheduled for the year," describes Michael about Mohican Wilderness.
Consider weekday visits: Weekends can be crowded at popular horse camps. According to Brian B. about Dillon State Park Campground, "Dillon Lake State Park is located about 10 miles west of Zanesville, OH in a heavily forested area. There is no road noise from the local route 146 used to access the campground. There is reasonable space between the sites to allow for some privacy."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: Choose sites with adequate space for both RV and horse trailer. "Large campground but very quiet. Shower houses weren't amazing but well maintained," advises MaKenzie J. about Dillon State Park Campground.
Leveling challenges: Many horse camps have uneven terrain. "Many sites are not level. Many sites have NO shade. Only Electric available at each site. Shower/bathroom facilities look to be from the 70's," warns Gary O. about Dillon State Park.
Water access planning: Not all sites offer full hookups. "The campsite was very beautiful, right on the river. We had planned to stay until Saturday, but had to leave just after 2 days. No fault of the campground," reports Heidi L. about Mohican Wilderness.
