Tent campsites near Mansfield, Ohio range from primitive sites nestled in the wooded terrain of Mohican-Memorial State Forest to more developed options at nearby campgrounds. The area sits within Ohio's Appalachian Plateau region at elevations between 900-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for hikers and campers. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during the day, dropping to 60-65°F at night, making three-season tent camping comfortable with proper gear.
What to do
Explore creek systems: At Mohican-Memorial State Forest campsites, clear streams offer cooling relief during summer months. "The creek was clear and cool. 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," notes one camper about Site 2.
Practice navigation skills: Trails are well-marked but can be confusing for first-timers. "Make sure that you look for the red blazes on the trees at the start of the trail. I would recommend downloading the various bridle trails (Mohican) on the AllTrails app. The paper map provided at the trail head was missing some information," advises a visitor.
River tubing: During hot summer days, the river near Mohican State Park Campground provides natural recreation. "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," reports a camper.
Winter camping: The Park & Pack sites remain accessible during colder months, offering a different experience. "I decided on a solo exploratory trip before bringing my 9yr out... I stayed at Campsite 3, which was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream," shares a winter camper.
What campers like
Less crowded alternatives: The Park and Pack sites provide a more secluded experience than regular campgrounds. "We felt so spoiled as it isn't the crowded state parking campsite that you often think of when camping," comments a visitor to Site 2.
Sunset views: Some sites offer particularly scenic evening vistas. "The sunset photo is by the entrance of the parking lot to the campsite. This is the 2nd easiest campsite to walk into out of the 10," notes a camper at Park and Pack Campsite 10.
Swimming facilities: At Tee Pee Family Campground, water recreation stands out as a highlight. "The pond was fantastic. Has a large inflatable slide and a dock that you can jump off of in the middle. Kids loved it," shares a visitor, though they note that other amenities are limited.
Lower areas: Several campsites offer additional spaces beyond the main clearing. "You can find a short 'trail' at the NE edge of the campsite that leads down to a ledge where a couple unofficial fire rings have been built," describes a camper about exploring beneath Site 10.
What you should know
Registration verification: The registration system requires attention to detail. "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," warns a camper at Park and Pack Campsite 10.
Site location challenges: Finding specific sites can be difficult without proper guidance. "Personally the directions on the kiosk where you sign in are misleading and to me really just plain wrong. The directions were correct once we got to the trailhead BUT there was no way to know where the trail head was or what the name of it was," shares a frustrated camper.
Unauthorized camping issues: Rangers actively monitor for unregistered campers. "I planned to stay Friday and Saturday... when I got there, there were about 10 men, in 4-5 tents already set up. I went back and checked the kiosk, and they were not registered," reports one camper who encountered an unauthorized group at her site.
Site size variations: Not all sites accommodate larger tents. "This is one of the smallest camp sites. It would be hard to put a big tent here so make sure you use your smaller tents. You can easily hang hammocks back here," advises a visitor about Site 1.
Tips for camping with families
Group facilities: For organized youth trips, Hidden Hollow Camp provides appropriate infrastructure. "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine," reports a troop leader.
Mobility-friendly options: Some sites are more accessible than others. "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," explains a camper about Site 4.
Trail difficulty assessment: For families with young children, certain sites offer easier access. "If you have any mobility issues this is the second best camp site to go to as most of it is along the wide access road and mountain bike trail," notes a camper about Site 10.
Water safety: Creek crossings require parental supervision. "This site was one of my favorites as it was right by the creek... Crossing the creek the water at this time was ankle high," explains a visitor, highlighting the need for caution with children.
Tips from RVers
Holiday celebrations: Walhonding Hills Campground offers special events for those staying in their vehicles. "The 4th of July celebration is better than any other town fireworks I've ever seen," shares a five-year seasonal camper.
Vehicle access limitations: Some forest roads have terrain challenges. "The last 1/4 mile of the road is pretty rutted, so if you have a low profile vehicle you may need to park at the lower area," warns a visitor accessing Site 10.
Full hookup options: Traditional campgrounds provide alternatives to primitive sites. "Our first visit to the park was early in the camping season, and on a warm and beautiful spring weekend. They have regular electric and full hookup sites," explains a camper at Mohican State Park.
Alternative parking strategies: When official campgrounds are full, creative solutions exist. "I packed up in the morning and spent the next night in my Outback in the parking lot, which worked out because it rained and so I didn't have to deal with packing up wet gear," shares a resourceful camper.
