The Mansfield, Ohio region offers outdoor recreation in a rolling landscape dotted with lakes and forests. Located in north central Ohio at an elevation of 1,240 feet, the area experiences four distinct seasons with summer camping temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Primitive camping and luxury glamping close to Mansfield, Ohio provide access to extensive hiking networks and multiple waterways.
What to do
Hiking trails: Mohican State Park Campground connects to over 13 miles of scenic trails including routes to waterfalls and a covered bridge. "Beautiful campsites on the water and near it. There is nice several mile through trail that goes from the dam area following the river to the primitive camping area and then to the camper/rv camping area. Beautiful area to see in the winter & not as busy," notes a camper at Mohican State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Charles Mill Lake offers multiple shoreline fishing spots with catch and release options available year-round. "The lake is gorgeous this weekend and we enjoyed riding bikes and walking the park," reports a visitor to Charles Mill Lake Park Campground.
Mountain biking: Several dedicated mountain bike trails wind through the forested areas near Butler-Mohican KOA, suitable for various skill levels. "Great place to camp! Quiet and private, hiking, fishing, pool and gameroom. Very close to Mohican State Park for canoeing and scenery," explains a reviewer.
Canoeing and kayaking: The Mohican River provides multiple put-in spots for water recreation with rentals available at Mohican Adventures. "Lots to do! RV sites are a little small and close together, but comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Great spot to camp if interested in tubing/canoeing/kayaking down Mohican river," shares a visitor.
What campers like
Free primitive sites: Mohican Memorial Forest offers 10 free park-and-pack campsites accessible by short hikes. "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 a camper at Mohican Memorial Forest.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathrooms and shower houses. "As far as tent camping goes, it does not get any easier than this. Everything is clean and well organized. Perfect for first time campers," notes a visitor to Mohican State Park.
Winter camping options: Several locations remain open year-round for off-season experiences. "Another Thanksgiving spent in our camper and it was so nice and relaxing. There were more campers than expected this weekend. I guess everyone likes to social distance in their campers too. Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year."
Farm-based education: Malabar Farm offers a working farm experience alongside camping. "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. Primitive camping with a gravel parking pad and water, fire ring, picnic table and hitching post," describes a visitor to Malabar Farm State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal fluctuations: River water levels vary significantly throughout the year affecting boating and fishing. "During the summer I hear it gets pretty busy with people tubing on the river," notes a Mohican State Park visitor.
Booking recommendations: Waterfront sites fill quickly during summer months. "We had a great time at Pleasant Hill. We stayed there because we were planning a visit to the Prairie Peddler. It was almost completely empty so it was a nice weekend but the sites if everything was full is very cramped," advises a camper at Pleasant Hill Lake Park.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely across the region. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," reports a Mohican State Park visitor.
Water access considerations: Some sites require stream crossings to reach. "The Park & Pack sites were a bit confusing online, so I decided on a solo exploratory trip before bringing my 9yr out. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it," cautions a visitor to Mohican Memorial Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds schedule weekend programming specifically for children. "We had an absolute blast at the campsite! We stayed in L and the kids loved being close to the water. The campground beach is an absolute must and we even got close to wildlife (aka some pesky raccoons)," shares a visitor to Alum Creek State Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature multiple play areas throughout the property. "It is a very large campground, virtually in the middle of farmland. It is the draw itself. For the kids there are: activities, crafts, playground, jumping balloon, small zipline, lakes, heated swimming pool, ice cream. Everything a kid could want to do."
Beach safety: Different swimming areas offer varying depths and amenities. "There is a beach side and a lake side both are nice. We have stayed on both. There is a lake with a boat launch near by a playground and beach for families to swim. Kid friendly activities available while we were there."
Wildlife education: Multiple locations offer nature programs during peak seasons. "We love this park! Lots of hiking! Even saw a bald eagle this trip."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully between wooded versus open areas based on equipment size. "We stayed on the Eaglepiont side. It's opposite the main campground up the mile about .5 mile. The sites are not as modern but have more trees and natural beauty. The main campground is most cement pads and no shade," advises a visitor to River Trail Crossing.
Leveling challenges: Many sites throughout the region require significant leveling. "The sites are mostly level but are short & close to each other. Roads are narrow & hilly. Electric went out several times over the weekend."
Water access timing: Water hookups are typically disconnected during winter months. "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."
Pull-through availability: Limited options exist for larger rigs, requiring advance booking. "We had a riverfront spot for 4 nights, enjoyed our stay. 30amp, but the AC was still effective on a couple hot days. Bike trail access right from the campground."
