Marshallville, Ohio offers a diverse mix of camping experiences at elevations ranging between 950-1,100 feet in the rolling Appalachian foothills region. The area typically experiences moderate seasonal temperatures with summer averages of 70-85°F and spring/fall ranging from 45-65°F. Winter camping remains available at select locations with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: West Branch State Park Campground provides access to multiple trails where riders can explore the natural landscape. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The shower house and bathrooms are large and clean. There is even a book exchange shelf at the shower house in case of rainy days," notes Alisa G., highlighting the park's multiple recreation options beyond riding.
Scenic hiking routes: Mohican State Park Campground features trails ranging from easy to challenging with notable natural features. "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," explains Nicole K., pointing to both developed and primitive options for visitors who prefer exploring on foot rather than horseback.
Fishing and water activities: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground offers anglers productive fishing spots along with water-based recreation. "Big campground. Boat docking is available. I just love love the beach lake. Great entertainment too. New shower houses by the beach," reports Karrie Kat W., highlighting the diverse water recreation options that complement equestrian activities.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Mohican Wilderness stands out for spacious campsites that provide ample room for horse trailers and equipment. "We have camped here 3 times now and even though it's a large park the sites are huge so you still feel like you can kick back and relax," shares Andrea F., emphasizing the campground's ability to accommodate equestrian needs while maintaining privacy.
Clean facilities: West Branch State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities that receive consistent praise. "Best bathrooms around! Showers great. Bathrooms great. Lots of 'lakefront' spots. Dog park is pretty great, too," notes Kim B., indicating the practical comforts available to riders after a day on the trails.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch creates welcoming environments for families with children and horses. "Took the family there and loved it. It's clean and quiet. Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly," reports Bradley B., highlighting the campground's appeal to family groups with equestrian interests.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mohican State Park Campground offers different experiences throughout the year, affecting trail conditions for horses. "Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year. 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," shares Andrea F., noting important seasonal infrastructure changes.
Site selection challenges: Some horse campgrounds near Marshallville feature uneven terrain that requires planning. "On first impression we were not impressed with this park. First the water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full. Also our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke," cautions Andrea F. at West Branch State Park.
Reservation timing: Popular equestrian sites book quickly during peak seasons. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly," advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park, a principle that applies to most horse-friendly campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly horse programs: Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday offers structured riding activities designed specifically for children. "This is our favorite KOA! I have 4 kids and return at least 1x per year. Great family owned KOA. Horseback riding on site," shares Lisa D., highlighting the consistent quality of children's equestrian programming.
Multiple recreation options: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground provides diverse activities beyond riding. "The bike/walking paths for kids/adults is a great addition for campers with young kids. The shower houses are clean as well as the grounds," notes Tina D., explaining how the varied recreation helps keep children engaged.
Educational opportunities: Malabar Farm State Park Campground offers learning experiences 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. This place is amazing! (and would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!)," suggests Shelly S., pointing to educational value for families camping with horses.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground provides full-service sites for RVers traveling with horses. "We arrived Friday late afternoon and set up in the rain. Large landscape sites that are full hookup with large concrete pads. Each with its own picnic table and fire pit. They also have a boat dock for the campers to use," describes Andrea F., noting the practical amenities.
Site leveling requirements: West Branch State Park requires preparation for uneven terrain. "We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches. The jack was down as low as it would go and we were still off by 1.5 inches," warns Andrea F., highlighting the importance of bringing proper leveling equipment.
Water access planning: At Mohican State Park, seasonal water availability affects RV camping strategies. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," adds Andrea F., reminding visitors to plan communications accordingly when staying at equestrian campgrounds in more remote settings near Marshallville.
