Tent campsites near Kilbourne, Ohio are situated in the rolling hills of central Ohio, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,100 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Primitive camping options in this region typically have limited cell service, with Verizon showing spotty coverage at most backcountry sites.
What to do
Creek exploration: Cross shallow streams at Park and Pack Campsite 3 where campers access tent sites by fording a creek. One visitor noted, "A well hidden campsite... This one does have a creek crossing after you leave the camp site. It was the deepest part of the creek and muddy leading up to it. This is because the trail is also the horse trail in the forest."
Test backpacking gear: Use shorter trails for gear testing at Scioto Grove Metro Park where backpackers can practice with minimal commitment. A camper explained, "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit, besides that they're totally primitive."
Evening wildlife viewing: Spot deer and birds in clearings during dusk hours. Tent campers report multiple deer sightings at dawn and dusk, especially near water sources. The mixed deciduous forest provides habitat for numerous bird species, making early morning ideal for birdwatching from your campsite.
What campers like
Seclusion without extreme hiking distances: Many tent sites provide isolation without requiring extensive backcountry experience. At Mohican State Park Campground, campers appreciate the accessibility combined with natural settings. One reviewer stated, "This campsite you just briefly leave the main trail to cross the creek to your own private campsite. We loved loved this site. We felt so spoiled as it isn't the crowded state parking campsite that you often think of when you think of camping."
Weekend-friendly booking: Scioto Grove's weekend-focused schedule works well for most campers. As one visitor noted, "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I'm sure it's pretty and all, but it's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio!"
River access at select sites: Some tent camping areas provide water views and access. One camper at Scioto Grove shared, "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn't see a single person."
What you should know
Registration requirements are strictly enforced: Always check in at designated kiosks before setting up camp. At Park and Pack Campsite 10, registration is crucial: "Make sure you get a reservation at the kiosk by the ranger station in the forest. Do not go to the state park as that is completely different... Do not camp illegally or without a reservation. They do post signs and ask other campers to report the illegal camping."
Maps can be confusing: Download digital maps before arrival as paper maps may lack detail. One camper advised, "Personally the directions on the kiosk where you sign in are misleading and to me really just plain wrong... Finally we got online and found a handy dandy pic with the location of all the sites and trailheads."
Site availability operates on first-come basis: Early arrival increases chances of securing preferred sites. A visitor observed, "It is nice no official check in and check out time like you have at the state park campsites. However, the early bird does get the worm or in this case the camp site. It is harder for folks that live further away to get their hands on a site. As there are only 10."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites for younger children: Park and Pack Campsite 4 offers easier terrain for families. A camper explained, "This is 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... It is gravel but this site and number 10 is what I would pick for her. 10 does have a slight up and in that could be a challenge but it is largely flat."
Winter camping requires extra planning: Cold temperatures mean additional gear needs for family outings. One winter camper reported, "After getting to the Ranger kiosk everything was pretty self explanatory. I stayed at Campsite 3, which was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it."
Look for sites with recreational features: Some areas provide additional attractions beyond camping. A visitor to Scioto Grove shared, "Somewhere among the hustle and bustle and just outside Columbus you can find this hidden gem of a park in Grove City. Backpacking sites, rope bridge crossing over a creek that kids and adults would love to explore."
Tips from RVers
Limited tent-RV hybrid options exist: Most tent campsites near Kilbourne are tent-only with no RV access. At Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1, a camper observed, "Stayed here a few times with just power at site. Was at main Camp ground with RV's all around. Seemed pretty popular yet was quiet enough. People were very respectful and careful driving around as kids and families tend to walk/ride bikes around."
Check seasonal availability: Some primitive sites close during winter or have limited seasons. One camper warned, "THE FREE CAMPING IS CLOSED!!!!!! We went to the location of the office to fill out a slip for the free camping sites and they are all closed now. We ended up staying at the state park campground for 33$ which is not too bad."
Pool facilities available at some developed campgrounds: For families wanting tent camping with amenities, certain locations offer swimming options. At Walhonding Hills, "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
