Tent campsites near Mount Gilead, Ohio sit within a region characterized by gently rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests at elevations between 1,000-1,300 feet. Winter camping temperatures typically range from 20-35°F, while summer averages 70-85°F with moderate humidity. Most primitive sites in the area require crossing small streams that can rise several inches after rainfall.
What to do
Explore creek ecosystems: Multiple campsites at Mohican Memorial State Forest border small streams where campers can observe wildlife. According to one visitor, "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."
Test backpacking gear: Scioto Grove Metro Park offers a short loop trail ideal for testing equipment. One camper notes, "Scioto Grove is great if you're looking to test out some new backpacking gear. There are 5 reservable sites along the river trail and they all have tent pads and a fire pit."
Navigate bridle trails: The network of horse trails provides additional hiking options beyond standard camping routes. A camper reports, "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 on the AllTrails app. The paper map provided at the trail head was missing some information."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Park and Pack Campsite 3 offers privacy despite its proximity to water. A winter camper shared, "I stayed at Campsite 3, which was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it."
Hammock-friendly sites: Many areas accommodate hammock setups alongside traditional tent spaces. At Park and Pack Campsite 10, one camper reported, "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."
River access: Multiple sites provide direct water access for cooling off during summer months. At Scioto Grove, a recent visitor mentioned, "Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park - didn't see a single person. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood."
What you should know
Registration requirements: All Park and Pack sites require in-person registration. A camper advises, "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. For the forest office I go to Co Rd 939, Perrysville, OH 44864."
Limited accessibility: Only certain campsites accommodate those with mobility concerns. A visitor observed about Park and Pack Site 1, "This one does have a creek crossing after you leave the camp site. It was the deepest part of the creek and muddy leading up to it. This is because the trail is also the horse trail in the forest."
Water filtration considerations: Stream water requires treatment and may be affected by trail usage. One reviewer noted, "The water is muddy so I wouldn't creek at this spot but it does have easy water access. However, do be aware that horses are going through the water."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible routes: Some paths are more suitable for children or those with limited hiking experience. A visitor recommended, "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. I have a friend with mobility challenges and can walk on wide open trails."
Weekend scheduling: Scioto Grove has specific availability for family camping. A camper explained, "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime. I'm sure it's pretty and all, but it's hard to find legit, free dispersed camping in Ohio!"
Educational opportunities: The water features provide natural learning environments. One family noted, "Somewhere among the hustle and bustle and just outside Columbus you can find this hidden gem of a park in Grove City. Backpacking sites, rope bridge crossing over a creek that kids and adults would love to explore."
Tips from RVers
Water access points: Walhonding Hills Campground offers amenities not found at primitive sites. A long-term camper shared, "Wouldn't camp anywhere else. They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
Off-season considerations: Many RV sites close during winter months. According to Tee Pee Family Campground information, the facility operates seasonally from "May 1 to November 1," requiring winter campers to seek alternatives.
Space limitations: Commercial campgrounds may have tight configurations. One RVer at Tee Pee Campground noted, "Sites are close together. Our fire pit is less than 3 feet away from the next camper."
