Tent camping opportunities near Nevada, Ohio primarily center around the Mohican region where forest terrain ranges from relatively flat to moderately hilly. The area typically sees summer highs in the 80s with winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most primitive sites in the region require creek crossings which range from ankle to mid-calf depth during normal conditions, with water levels rising significantly after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Pond activities: The pond at Tee Pee Family Campground provides water recreation options. "The pond was fantastic. Has a large inflatable slide and a dock that you can jump off of in the middle. Kids loved it," notes camper Bryatt S.
River floating: During summer months, the Clear Fork River offers cooling relief. "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," shares a camper at Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1.
Creek exploration: Several campsites allow access to clear forest streams. "This site was one of my favorites as it was right by the creek. The creek was clear and cool. It was also far enough away that I wouldn't be constantly worried about it," reports a camper about Park and Pack Site 2.
What campers like
Secluded camping sites: The Park and Pack sites at Mohican-Memorial State Forest offer genuine seclusion. "This campsite you just briefly leave the main trail to cross the creek to your own private campsite. We loved loved this site. We felt so spoiled as it isn't the crowded state parking campsite that you often think of when camping," shares Kenpocentaur K.
Scenic overlooks: Some campsites feature elevated terrain with views. "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," reports Ryan R. about Park and Pack Campsite 10.
Multiple tent configurations: The spacious nature of many sites accommodates various shelter options. "It has a good mix of space for tents and hammocks. A larger group could easily camp here together without feeling like they were on top of each other," notes a reviewer about Mohican-Memorial State Forest.
What you should know
Registration process: Park and Pack sites require in-person registration. "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," advises a camper, providing the address: "Co Rd 939, Perrysville, OH 44864."
Site accessibility varies: Some sites are much easier to reach 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," reports Kenpocentaur K. about Park and Pack Campsite 3.
Limited cell service: Most forest campsites have poor connectivity. "No cell phone service for Verizon at this time," notes a camper. Another mentions, "I had limited cell phone signal while here but this had the best signal out of the 10 sites."
Water availability: No running water exists at primitive sites. "The only con I would give the site is there's no water source, so you have to pack in all your water needs. Being the middle of summer that was quite a bit for my daughter and me," explains Ryan R.
Tips for camping with families
Start with accessible sites: For younger children, choose sites with easier approaches. "It 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 Campsite 10, mentioning it's about "3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area."
Download maps beforehand: Given poor cell service, preparation is essential. "Download your maps before you go. I use the trail app AllTrails to help me navigate back here," advises a camper, specifically recommending "Mohican Red Bridle Trail Loop, Mohican Blue to Red Bridle Trail Loop, and the Mohican Yellow Bridle Trail Loop."
Consider playground access: For developed campgrounds with amenities, note playground quality. "Playgrounds for the kids are very weak. Just a few swing sets but that's about it," comments Bryatt S. about Tee Pee Family Campground.
Tips for RVers
Spot selection matters: At developed campgrounds, location affects experience. "We did like the paved pull-through site and were close to the river. Electric was good and people were friendly," notes Josie W. about staying at Mohican State Park Campground.
Bathhouse access: Consider distance to facilities when selecting sites. "2 bathhouses for the entire campground. And it's a decent walk to get to them if you are just there for a weekend," reports a camper at Tee Pee Family Campground.
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have tight arrangements. "Sites are close together. Our fire pit is less than 3 feet away from the next camper," notes Bryatt S., something to consider for those wanting more privacy while tent camping near Nevada, Ohio.
