Mohican-Memorial State Forest offers primitive camping options within an elevation range of 900-1,200 feet. The forest's tent campsites near Howard, Ohio feature a mix of hardwood trees with dense understory vegetation providing natural screening between sites. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during the day and 50-65°F at night, with higher humidity making insect protection essential.
What to do
Creek exploration: Access streams directly from several Park and Pack campsites at Mohican-Memorial State Forest. Campsite 2 is positioned where "the creek was clear and cool" and crossing requires only ankle-deep wading during normal conditions, according to camper Kenpocentaur K.
Sunset viewing: Find optimal evening views at Park and Pack site 4, which has "a great view for sunset" and features "creative man made benches from logs/branches" perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking, notes Karen K.
River floating: During hot summer days, tube down the river at Mohican State Park Campground. As camper I'm Los T. describes, "the least done and most worth it item to do is the river. If you are in the park there are areas to walk up river and jump in with a tube and float back down to the camp areas and get out. River was COLD, but very nice in 90 degree heat."
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many tent campsites near Howard provide significant privacy. At Park and Pack Campsite 3, campers appreciate the seclusion as it's "tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream," making it "beautiful" according to Ryan R., who took a "solo exploratory trip" there.
Multiple shelter options: Campers appreciate the flexibility in setup arrangements. Karen K. notes that Campsite 10 offers "a big area open for several tents to be set up, a few safe spots for hammocking," making it suitable for groups with different shelter preferences.
Water proximity: Access to streams creates cooling opportunities during warm weather. Kenpocentaur K. reports Campsite 2 was "one of my favorites as it was right by the creek" which proved "nice on a hot day and if you needed to filter water it would be super easy."
What you should know
Registration requirements: All Park and Pack campsites require in-person registration at the forest kiosk. As Karen K. explains about Park and Pack Campsite 10, "Take a walk down a dirt beaten path with mature trees towering and hang a right and the path gets more eroded from rains, then you go up a slight steep hill and a big area is open."
Navigation challenges: Some campsites are difficult to locate without proper maps or directions. Kenpocentaur K. describes site 4 as "the hardest for us to find but it is the easiest to get to in terms of walking," explaining that "you need to be in the same area but instead look over by the pavilion you will see the trail campsite marker for #4 campsite marked."
Creek crossings: Water barriers may complicate access depending on seasonal conditions. Ryan R. warns about Campsite 3: "Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it."
Tips for camping with families
Mobility considerations: Choose accessible sites for children or family members with mobility needs. Campsite 4 is described by Kenpocentaur K. as "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."
Group accommodations: For family gatherings, select larger sites that accommodate multiple tents. At Hidden Hollow Camp, Joel C. mentions it's a "great spot for group camping" with "excellent" facilities including "a large clubhouse with kitchen."
Safety awareness: Monitor water features when camping with children. Kenpocentaur K. notes that while Campsite 2 was "right by the creek," it was also "far enough away that I wouldn't be constantly worried about it. Still something to be mindful of when camping near water."
Tips from RVers
Alternative options: When primitive sites don't suit your needs, Walhonding Hills Campground offers RV accommodations with more amenities. Carrie H., a "5 years so far seasonal camper," states they "wouldn't camp anywhere else," noting the campground has "a pool and atv trails on campground property."
Special events: Plan camping trips around holiday celebrations for enhanced experiences. Carrie H. mentions that "the 4th of July celebration is better than any other town fireworks I've ever seen."
Campground layout: The RV section at Mohican State Park Campground features an organized arrangement. Kevin C. observes the "campground itself is very well laid out. It's long and just a few rows deep with trees throughout, so you don't feel over crowded."
