Campgrounds near Howard, Ohio offer diverse overnight accommodations surrounded by forested hills in the Mohican region, where elevations range from 900 to 1,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers reaching 80°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. Several locations provide free hike-in sites in addition to established campgrounds with amenities.
What to Do
Hiking trails and waterfalls: At Mohican State Park Campground, visitors can explore numerous trails featuring natural waterfalls and overlooks. One visitor noted, "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too." The park contains multiple trail systems ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes through hemlock forests.
Fishing opportunities: Kokosing River Campground offers lake fishing in a quieter setting. According to a camper, "Beautiful lake, nice and quiet. Lots of waterfowl." The area contains multiple fishing spots across different bodies of water, with some locations stocking trout seasonally.
Canoeing and kayaking: Explore the Mohican River via the water. A visitor to Mohican Reservation Campground shared, "Can go canoeing on the nearby river with canoe rental available and shuttle pickup at the end of your journey back to where you started." Rentals typically cost $20-40 per craft for half-day trips.
Mountain biking: The region offers designated mountain biking trails for various skill levels. Trails connect different recreation areas and campgrounds, creating loop opportunities for longer rides through wooded terrain.
What Campers Like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded spots available at certain campgrounds. At Rustic Knolls Campground, a reviewer commented, "If you are looking for a quiet little place to relax, this is it. Rustic is down a gravel road, well off the beaten path, and a little more remote than the boondocks."
Water features: Swimming and boating access rank highly among visitor preferences. One camper at Rustic Knolls noted, "Swimming pond and fishing pond. Restrooms are all over for convenience." These ponds provide alternatives to the larger lakes and rivers in the region.
Primitive camping options: Free hike-in sites offer a more secluded experience. A reviewer of Park and Pack Campsite 3 shared, "Beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it." These sites require registration but offer no-cost camping away from developed areas.
Indoor amenities: During colder months or inclement weather, indoor facilities provide comfort. A visitor to Mohican Adventures Campground mentioned, "The indoor pool and shower houses were amazing." These heated facilities extend the camping season beyond summer months.
What You Should Know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have poor or no reception. A camper at Mohican State Park noted, "No cell service with Verizon at this park." Download maps and information before arrival.
Seasonal operations: Most glamping options near Howard, Ohio operate on limited schedules. A visitor to Butler-Mohican KOA mentioned, "The pool closed Labor Day weekend so that was disappointing." Check operating dates when planning visits outside summer months.
Varying levels of privacy: Site spacing differs significantly between campgrounds. One camper observed, "Sites on top of each other. Sites were decent size and the new section has very little shade." Research specific site numbers when making reservations.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. A reviewer noted, "This is mostly tent camping although there will be small popup campers. But no large RVs as the road is one lane in and out." Confirm road conditions before arrival, especially for larger vehicles.
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Multiple water features provide kid-friendly recreation. A visitor to Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground shared, "The lake is an all sport lake so there is fishing, tubing, jet skis and kayaking. The marina has boat rentals available."
Playground facilities: Many campgrounds offer playground equipment. A camper noted, "Playgrounds, cabins, camper cabins, tent sites & camper sites. Some camper sites have electric & water." These areas provide activity options during downtime at camp.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing adds learning experiences. One visitor mentioned, "Lots of hiking! Even saw a bald eagle this trip." Early morning and evening offer the best wildlife spotting times at area lakes and forests.
Budget considerations: Free camping options exist among paid sites. A camper stated, "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites." These require first-come, first-served registration at forest offices.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites vary by location. A camper at Pleasant Hill noted, "We arrived Friday late afternoon and set up in the rain. Large landscape sites that are full hookup with large concrete pads."
Site leveling challenges: Some areas feature uneven terrain. A visitor commented, "Nice clean and friendly staff the only complaint is that the sites are not flat." Bring extra leveling blocks for RV stabilization.
Dump station access: Year-round facilities differ by location. One RVer mentioned, "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." Check seasonal water availability when planning late fall or early spring trips.
Size restrictions: Not all glamping areas near Howard accommodate large rigs. A reviewer noted, "The sites seemed a little small so it might feel crowded during peak season." Research site dimensions before booking.
