Camping sites near Lucas, Ohio range from developed state parks to free dispersed camping options in Mohican-Memorial State Forest. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with forest terrain characterized by hemlock gorges and clear streams. Summer nights typically cool to 50-55°F even when daytime temperatures reach 85°F, making sleeping conditions comfortable at most campsites without air conditioning.
What to do
River activities: Mohican Wilderness offers river experiences from short paddles to longer excursions. "Super super big place as far as campsites go and quantity. They do have a suspension bridge which is pretty cool some trails to hike on and Camp spots right on the river which is pretty cool," notes Katie Jo B.
Fishing spots: The local lakes provide good fishing options throughout the camping season. At Charles Mill Lake Park Campground, visitors can access both shoreline and boat fishing. "Charles Mills Lake is a Great place for waterfront camping and if you like boating. The grounds are well maintained and the primitive sites are pretty well secluded," reports Ken P.
Hiking network: The region features interconnected trail systems across multiple properties. At Mohican State Park Campground, "lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," shares Nicole K. The area includes options from easy walking paths to more challenging terrain with elevation changes.
Disc golf: Mt. Gilead State Park offers an unconventional disc golf course that incorporates natural features. "We took a night walk with headlamps and found the disc golf course. This was laid out to be a crazy course and included repelling ropes!" says Sarah G.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Park and Pack Campsite 10 provides secluded camping without reservation requirements. One camper shares, "The campsite was a nice quiet site. There was a little bit of trash in the fire ring but seen that more times than not." Free dispersed camping attracts those seeking solitude away from more developed facilities.
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous site dimensions at certain campgrounds. At Mohican Wilderness, "the sites are huge and usually shaded. Mohican Wilderness will be a lot more rustic than other campgrounds but this only adds to the relaxation factor," notes William P.
Water proximity: Many appreciate the option to camp directly beside rivers or lakes. "We 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," reports CampgroundKaren about Mohican Wilderness.
Off-season quiet: Several campgrounds maintain partial operations during non-peak months. "We camped here off season and had the place to ourselves. We had a pull through site which was gravel. The staff is friendly and the indoor pool and shower houses were amazing," shares Renee L. about Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins.
What you should know
Booking systems: Different campgrounds employ various reservation methods. The Park and Pack sites in Mohican-Memorial State Forest use first-come registration at a kiosk. "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," advises Kenpocentaur K.
Site conditions: Expect variation in site levelness across the region. At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, "We have stayed mostly in area E and the new F side of the campground. The new F sites have concrete pads and plenty of space. Only lacking in mature trees to offer shade," reports Michelle H.
Cell coverage: Limited connectivity exists throughout the area, especially at more remote sites. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," notes Andrea F. about Mohican State Park. This can affect navigation apps and emergency communications, so downloading maps beforehand is recommended.
Seasonal facilities: Not all amenities operate year-round. "During the summer I hear it gets pretty busy with people tubing on the river," explains Renée C. Seasonal considerations extend to water access, with some campgrounds turning off water at sites during colder months but maintaining limited facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Indoor options: Malabar Farm State Park Campground provides educational opportunities beyond typical outdoor recreation. "Louis Bromfield was a conservationist and among many other things (including winning a Pulitzer) he was in the forefront of organic and self-sustaining gardening. This place is amazing! (and would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!)" shares Shelly S.
Water activities: Mohican Adventures offers multiple water-based recreation options suitable for different age groups. "We fished and swam in the indoor pool which was not heated at the time. Across the street they have a Canoe livery, mini golf, go carts, ropes course and lots more," explains Lo H.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playground facilities. Charles Mill Lake Park features "a playground and beach for families to swim. Kid friendly activities available while we were there," according to Katelyn P.
Organized programming: Look for scheduled activities during peak season. Mohican Wilderness provides "lots of summer activities scheduled for the year," notes Michael, making it easier to keep children engaged throughout longer stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on rig size and leveling requirements. At Charles Mill Lake Park, "The sites are mostly level but are short & close to each other. Roads are narrow & hilly," warns Kathy C.
Hookup variability: Full-service sites are limited to specific campgrounds and sections. "The full hook up side the sites are really tight together. The electric only sits are spread out a little more," notes Shannon G. about Mt Gilead State Park.
Navigation challenges: Some access roads require careful driving. At Pleasant Hill, "Very large park with plenty of room for hikes, bike rides and walks," reports Michelle H., though navigation between different areas can require significant driving time.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options exist but with reduced services. At Mohican State Park, "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," explains Andrea F.
