Ohio's Howard area offers extensive equestrian camping options with trails spanning across state parks and wilderness areas. Located in Knox County with elevations ranging from 900-1,100 feet, the region features a mix of wooded terrain and open meadows. Most horse trails remain open April through November, with some parks maintaining year-round access depending on ground conditions.
What to do
Trail riding at Mohican Wilderness: Trails connect directly to riverfront campsites with access to the Mohican River. "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. Quiet neighbors and friendly staff plus everything is mowed and well maintained," notes Andrea F. from Mohican Wilderness.
Free primitive backpacking: Several secluded tent sites require a short hike in from parking areas. "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, no reservations," explains John H. from Mohican State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Multiple parks offer shoreline and boat fishing opportunities for equestrians wanting to combine activities. "Great fishing" is mentioned by Marci P. who recommends the primitive campground in the Hemlock Gorge area, noting that it sits "alongside the river and at the bottom of the gorge."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Horse campers appreciate extra room for trailers and equipment. "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," shares Shannon P. from Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground.
Direct trail access: Many equestrian sites connect directly to trail systems without needing to trailer horses. "Listening to the river is what makes this place peaceful. The Hemlock Gorge trail is accessible from the end of the campground. People bring rafts and tubes and float down the river to the main campground at the end of the gorge," reports Marci P.
Off-season availability: Some campers prefer visiting horse camps during quieter periods. "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," notes Andrea F.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Several equestrian camping areas have limited connectivity. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," mentions Andrea F. about Mohican State Park. This affects communication and navigation, so download maps beforehand.
Tick prevention essential: Horse trails pass through dense woodland areas with tick populations. "TICK WARNING!!!! After a morning hike down wooded Trail, we spent A LONG TIME pulling ticks from dogs...even though the temps were in the 30's overnight and everyone was treated with flea & tick protection," warns Staci R. from Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Water access varies: Not all equestrian sites have water hookups year-round. Some parks maintain limited facilities during colder months, so check availability before arrival. "Site 138" at Mohican Wilderness offers "large sites and right on the river," according to Andrea F.
Traveler
