Several camping options exist within a 25-mile radius of Mount Gilead, Ohio, where the Clear Fork and Black Fork rivers join to form the Mohican River. The area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,400 feet and averages 39 inches of annual rainfall. Summer temperatures typically range between 65-85°F, with cooler nights that can dip into the 50s, creating comfortable camping conditions from May through September.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing trips: The Mohican River offers popular paddling routes near River Trail Crossing. "River Trail Crossing is privately owned, small campground (which we like) but nice and quiet. Sites include tents, small rigs and large pull through sites for big rigs. Most family's floated with tubes and saw some kayaks," notes Brian E.
Indoor recreation options: For families wanting indoor alternatives during inclement weather, Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins offers year-round facilities. "The campgrounds covers all the basics. We fished and swam in the indoor pool which was not heated at the time. Across the street they have a Canoe livery, mini golf, go carts, ropes course and lots more. So much to do!!" reports Lo H.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds in the Mount Gilead area maintain stocked fishing ponds. According to Emily at Whispering Hills Jellystone RV Park: "My boys were able to walk across the road to get to the pond that was well stocked with fish. It was catch and release but they were very excited to pull in some big ones."
What campers like
Quiet weekday stays: For campers seeking tranquility at rv sites near Mount Gilead, Ohio, mid-week reservations offer significantly reduced crowds. Jacob W. shares: "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. Given that only a small handful of campers had shown up during the middle of the week... we enjoyed much solitude on the river."
Spacious riverfront sites: Some campgrounds offer premium waterfront locations. "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. Golf nearby, Amish shops, canoeing. Great area to visit, we will return," says Bob M. about his stay at River Trail Crossing.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers note the well-maintained bathrooms in the area. Gary G. at Sunbury/Columbus North KOA Holiday reports: "Bathroom's nice. Even have hand dryers in most of them. And baby changers... Laundry room was quite nice with very new machines. It looked like it was two bucks to wash and $1 to dry."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most rv parks near Mount Gilead close for winter. Whispering Hills Jellystone operates from "Apr 15 - Oct 31," while Sunbury/Columbus North KOA Holiday runs from "May 1 to Nov 1," and River Trail Crossing is open from "May 1 to October 16."
Wi-Fi connectivity: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. At the Sunbury KOA, Gary G. found "Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5G) seems good throughout the entire park. Best Wi-Fi I've ever had at a campground. They have Wi-Fi repeater towers everywhere you look."
Water levels and crowds: Summer conditions can affect water activities at Kokosing River Campground — Kokosing Lake Wildlife Area. "Beautiful lake, nice a quiet. Lots of waterfowl," notes Shelly S., while Mark B. adds, "Second time at this campground. We enjoy our stays. Peaceful and great for kids. Kayaking on the lake is great. Camp staff very friendly and helpful."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds feature recreational facilities designed specifically for children. At Arrowhead Lake RV Park, Brad R. found "Multiple fishing spots for young and old. Pool was relaxing with laid back feel."
Check campground activity schedules: Many rv parks near Mount Gilead organize regular family programming. Jennifer K. describes the Sunbury KOA: "They had so many activities through the whole Christmas in July weekend, including seeing Santa! Even though we were there on a rainy/70-80 degree weekend, we still struggled to keep the kids at our site as they were constantly out and about having fun with everything offered."
Consider cabin rentals: For families new to camping, cabins provide an easier transition. "We absolutely loved it! Everyone was so friendly to us 'weekenders' and can't wait to come back," says Shelby T. about Sunset Springs RV Resort. "This location is not technically in Upper area. The website has two different locations. We ended up in the one in Mohican area in Loudonville."
Tips from RVers
Check for pull-through availability: Many rv sites near Mount Gilead offer both back-in and pull-through options. Bryatt S. from Arrowhead Lake notes: "Sites are large for the weekend campers. The seasonal ones all have back in and the weekends are pull through which is kinda nice."
Verify site dimensions and amenities: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs better than others. Sharon J. comments about Alton RV Park: "Sites are close but we had plenty of room for what we needed. We could have put out awnings if we had wanted to. A storm was expected and they do have basement shelter available."
Consider terrain and leveling needs: Not all sites are perfectly level. One visitor to Mohican Adventures reports: "Nice clean and friendly staff the only complaint is that the sites are not flat." At another campground, Sue B. notes: "Unfortunately, the site we were assigned took three blocks to level up, the power was on the wrong side and our picnic table was in the back area of another camper."
