Millersburg sits in the heart of Ohio's Amish country, with camping areas tucked into hilly terrain ranging from 900-1,200 feet in elevation. The region features mixed hardwood forests and rolling farmland, creating diverse terrain for hiking and horseback riding. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with cooler evenings, while spring and fall can bring temperature fluctuations and occasional rain.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterfalls: Mohican State Park Campground offers extensive hiking opportunities with varied terrain. "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," notes Nicole K., highlighting the natural water features throughout the park.
Horseback riding: The Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday features on-site horseback riding opportunities. "Horseback riding on site," confirms Lisa D., making this location convenient for families wanting to try riding without bringing their own horses.
River activities: Mohican Wilderness provides excellent river access for water recreation. "We go every year and do the 20 mile kayaking trip, such a nice little spot along the river & the best way to kick off summer!" shares Lexi K., pointing to the popularity of longer paddling trips in the area.
Winter recreation: While many horse campgrounds near Millersburg, Ohio close during colder months, some remain open year-round. "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," explains Andrea F. about Mohican State Park during winter months.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Mohican Wilderness campers consistently mention the generous site sizes. "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," reports Andrea F., highlighting how site size impacts the camping experience.
Free primitive options: For those seeking economical equestrian camping near Millersburg, free backcountry sites provide alternatives to developed facilities. "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites," explains John H., detailing these first-come, first-served opportunities.
Natural water features: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground provides access to water recreation. "The lake is an all sport lake so there is fishing, tubing, jet skis and kayaking. The marina has boat rentals available," notes Michelle H., demonstrating the variety of water activities available.
Clean facilities: Salt Fork State Park maintains well-kept grounds despite its size. "This park is very well groomed and most of the trails within the park had been cleared of vegetation so there was no fighting through the weeds," shares Ralph P., highlighting how trail maintenance enhances the riding experience.
What you should know
Primitive camping considerations: Not all horse-friendly sites have full amenities. "I am reviewing the primitive campground in the Hemlock Gorge. It is right alongside the river and at the bottom of the gorge... There is no electricity. There is water at a hand pump and pit toilets," explains Marci P. about Mohican State Park's primitive options.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your privacy needs and proximity to facilities. "A short distance from the main campground, the B class campground features first come availability, 'walk up' spots... No level ground to be found, but far fewer neighbors than the A class, main campground," advises Jared H.
Seasonal variations: The camping experience changes dramatically with the seasons. "The change of season brings a very different atmosphere to the park and the people staying in it... One heated bathroom with a shower is open in the winter," notes Shelly S. about Salt Fork State Park.
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for connectivity issues in some locations. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," warns Andrea F. about Mohican State Park, suggesting campers should plan accordingly if they need to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Less experienced campers can find suitable accommodations. "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," advises Jenny K. about Mohican State Park.
On-site activities: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "Great family owned KOA. Horseback riding on site," recommends Lisa D. about Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday, emphasizing amenities that keep children engaged.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds near Millersburg offer learning experiences alongside recreation. "Not your typical going hiking kinda campground (there are trails but they are not 'major') you come here to step away from city life and tour a working farm... definitely worth a visit and very family oriented events," explains Shelly S. about Malabar Farm State Park Campground.
Playground access: Facilities for younger children vary between campgrounds. "Playgrounds, cabins, camper cabins, tent sites & camper sites," lists Renée C. about Mohican State Park, providing options for families with different comfort needs.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Millersburg region have uneven terrain. "Many sites are not level. Many sites have NO shade. Only Electric available at each site," cautions Gary O. about Dillon State Park, highlighting preparation needs for RVers.
Hookup variations: Water access changes seasonally at some campgrounds. "The water at the full hook up sites are turned off," notes Andrea F. about winter camping at Mohican State Park, suggesting RVers should plan accordingly for off-season stays.
Large rig considerations: Not all equestrian campgrounds can accommodate bigger RVs. "This campground is all non electric. We did run our generator during that day but kept it off at night so we didn't disturb other campers. Only 15 sites and most are very sloped but we had site 3 and it was okay," shares Andrea F. about Malabar Farm State Park.
Campground layout: Understanding the arrangement of facilities helps with site selection. "The new F sites have concrete pads and plenty of space. Only lacking in mature trees to offer shade. The shower house there is new and clean, offers a laundry facility, but lacks ventilation," explains Michelle H. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park.
