The Mohican area sits at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level in north-central Ohio, creating a diverse landscape of rolling hills and valleys carved by the Mohican River. Winter camping temperatures typically drop to the 20s, while summer days average in the 80s with moderate humidity. Free primitive camping options exist throughout the Mohican Memorial State Forest for those seeking a more rustic experience.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Mt. Gilead State Park offers a challenging course with unique features. "This was laid out to be a crazy course and included repelling ropes!" notes Sarah G., who stayed at the park for a night hike exploration with headlamps.
Canoe and kayak: River Trail Crossing provides direct water access for paddling. Brian E. shares, "Most family's floated with tubes and saw some kayaks. Not much for fishing at this particular section of the river. There is a paved bike/walking trail behind the campground - B&O trail."
Nature trails: Mohican State Park Campground features multiple hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "The hiking trails are great with a covered bridge, overlook and waterfalls. The sites are nice and large with trees throughout the park," according to Andrea F., who found it to be her favorite park of 2019.
Winter camping: Several parks remain open year-round for cold-weather enthusiasts. Andrea F. notes about Mohican, "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."
What campers like
Fire rings and wood availability: Most campgrounds provide designated fire rings with wood available for purchase. At Mohican Adventures, Jacob W. reports, "Me and a friend went in the middle of the week and as a result practically had the entire Buzzard section of the Primitive tent camping section to ourselves."
Spacious sites: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground offers ample room between campsites. Korinne K. explains, "Lots are spacious. Lots of activities: WhoaZone, boating, fishing, horseback riding, near Mohican Adventures for rafting, hiking."
Seasonal activities: Fall and winter camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. "We love this park! Lots of hiking! Even saw a bald eagle this trip," reports Andrea F. about Mohican State Park during Thanksgiving weekend, adding, "No cell service with Verizon at this park."
Primitive camping options: Free backpacking sites offer secluded alternatives to established campgrounds. Ryan R. describes Park and Pack Campsite 10: "There are plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks. After my daughter and I set up camp near the fire ring we explored and found spots below the SE edge."
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Plan accordingly when choosing free Park and Pack sites. "All of the Park and Pack camp sites do not have a bathroom. So do leave no trace of your bathroom habits," advises Kenpocentaur K. about Campsite 10.
First-come availability: Some campsites cannot be reserved in advance. Jared H. notes about Mohican State Park, "A short distance from the main campground, the B class campground features first come availability, 'walk up' spots. Quotes, because each site has a parking spot and is easily accessed by car."
Seasonal challenges: Park amenities change throughout the year. Andrea F. explains, "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."
Site selection matters: Research specific site numbers before booking. Bobby C. says about 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."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor activities for weather flexibility: Some campgrounds offer indoor facilities. Renee L. reports about Mohican Adventures Campground, "The staff is friendly and the indoor pool and shower houses were amazing. The sites seemed a little small so it might feel crowded during peak season."
Educational opportunities: Malabar Farm provides working farm demonstrations. Shelly S. explains, "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!)"
Kid-friendly campground amenities: Pleasant Hill offers multiple recreational options. Korinne K. notes, "There are two basketball courts on either side of the park and a few playgrounds. Overall great camping."
Dog friendly camping spots: Most campgrounds welcome pets but have specific areas designated for them. At Charles Mill Lake Park Campground, Joseph E. recommends, "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."
Tips from RVers
Winter considerations: For cold-weather camping in RVs, know which amenities remain available. Andrea F. notes about 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."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Bobby C. shares about Pleasant Hill Lake Park, "Park is doing a ton of remolding looks to be mostly seasonal sites...we didn't care."
Site specifications: Select sites based on your specific RV requirements. Kelly L. explains about Mohican Adventures, "There are back in and pull through RV spots - along with nice shady spots for tent camping. When you arrive everyone in the vehicle checks in, and then someone on a golf cart takes you to your spot."
Off-season advantages: Consider camping during less popular times for more privacy. Lindsey mentions about Mohican Adventures, "Our pull through site was plenty level and accommodated our 33' camper and truck. There is a trail off the campground which is nice."
