Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday - Bear Creek Ranch offers equestrian camping options 30 miles southeast of New Franklin, Ohio. The facility connects to bridle trails for riders with various experience levels and provides full hookups for RVs alongside areas for horses. Year-round operations maintain consistent service regardless of season. The campground store supplies basics for both campers and horses, supporting extended stays for equestrian visitors.
What to do
Trail riding on site: At Bear Creek Resort Ranch KOA, guided horseback riding options cater to beginners and families. "Took the kids on the horse ride and they loved it. All staff were very friendly," reports Bradley B., who visited with his family.
Waterfront activities: Visitors to West Branch State Park can enjoy multiple water recreation options on Kirwan Reservoir. "We can launch our kayaks right from our campsite. The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers," notes Alisa G., highlighting the easy water access.
Hiking trail exploration: Mohican State Park offers an extensive trail network with varied terrain. "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," says Nicole K., pointing out additional no-cost options beyond the main campground.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Horse owners appreciate the dedicated facilities at Mohican Wilderness, which offers riverside camping with ample space. "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.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at many campgrounds near New Franklin. "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," writes Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Riverfront camping: Sites along the Mohican River provide direct water access at several horse campgrounds near New Franklin. "Site 810 in the Narrows. Our site was a little muddy and a little smaller than other sites but overall we were very happy with the campground," explains CampgroundKaren about her experience at Mohican Wilderness.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: While some campgrounds operate year-round, services may be limited in winter. "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," notes Andrea F. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront options. "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!" advises Alisa G. about West Branch State Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," reports Andrea F. about Mohican State Park, which can affect planning for those needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Campgrounds with dedicated children's facilities make family trips easier. "The park office loans games and sports equipment to campers. There are playgrounds for the children. An ice cream social is held on Saturday evenings that my children always love to attend," shares Alisa G.
Swimming options: Malabar Farm State Park and other nearby areas offer family-appropriate water recreation. "Swimming area is alright, a little muddy in areas, but the beach is kept clean," notes Jill T. about her experience at West Branch State Park.
Educational opportunities: Farms and nature centers provide learning experiences. "Louis Bromfield was a conservationist and among many other things he was in the forefront of organic and self-sustaining gardening. This place is amazing! (and would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!)" recommends Shelly S. about Malabar Farm.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. "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. about her experience at West Branch State Park.
Hookup availability: Ashland Fairgrounds provides basic overnight accommodations for RVs. "Ashland fairgrounds has $20 tent sites or $35 full hookups. You may need an extension cord. All back in sites," advises Charles K., noting the affordable pricing for travelers.
Generator policies: Rules about generator use vary across horse campgrounds near New Franklin. "We did run our generator during that day but kept it off at night so we didn't disturb other campers," explains Andrea F. about her stay at Malabar Farm State Park, where sites are non-electric.
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