Backcountry tent camping sites near New London, Ohio typically sit on varied terrain, from flat forested plots to areas with slight elevation changes near waterways. The region receives moderate rainfall, making many sites usable from April through October, with summer highs averaging 80-85°F. Water availability varies significantly between campsites, with some sites requiring hikers to carry all necessary drinking water.
What to do
Hiking to campsites: At Mohican-Memorial State Forest, trails lead to multiple backcountry sites. The path to some sites crosses creeks that can be ankle-deep. One visitor noted, "You need to be in the same area but instead look over by the pavilion you will see the trail campsite marker for #4 campsite marked. You will never ever find it on the loop."
Creek access: Certain forest campsites provide water access for cooling off. Sites 1-3 at Mohican have creek access, with varying water conditions. "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," notes one camper about Site 1.
Seasonal camping: Winter camping is possible at select locations. A camper at Park and Pack Campsite 3 mentioned, "The Park & Pack sites were a bit confusing online, so I decided on a solo exploratory trip before bringing my 9yr out...which was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Heritage Farms, campsites are scattered throughout a working Christmas tree farm. A visitor reported, "We couldn't really see or hear any other campers. We also had a lot of space." Another noted, "Sites are spread apart nicely. Each one has a picnic table and fire ring."
Access to national park areas: Heritage Farms provides unique camping within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. One reviewer appreciated its "extremely close proximity to CVNP. Lots of room for kiddos to run wild."
Free camping options: The Rivers Edge Camping Area offers no-cost tent camping. A camper observed it has "great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit."
What you should know
Water planning essential: Most backcountry sites require carrying all drinking water. For Mohican sites, "No near by water source for this campsite. Download your maps before you go," advises a visitor to Site 4.
Registration requirements: For Park and Pack Campsite 10, a visitor warns, "I went to the kiosk, and happily discovered no one was at this site, which was my preferred site. I triple-checked. But when I got there, there were about 10 men, in 4-5 tents already set up...they were not registered."
Site access difficulty: Some locations require hiking gear transport. A Heritage Farms camper explains, "Be prepared - you park near the front of the campgrounds to check in, and then you are provided wagons to carry your gear to your site. It is kind of a fun adventure."
Cell service limitations: Most backcountry sites have poor connectivity. A visitor to Mohican notes, "Cell phone coverage with Verizon was very limited out here."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for mobility issues: Some forest campsites are easier to access than others. A camper recommends, "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," when describing Mohican Site 4.
Toilets and facilities: Restroom access varies significantly between sites. At Hidden Hollow Camp, "Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine," according to a Scout leader.
Group camping options: Some sites accommodate larger family groups better than others. A camper at Hidden Hollow Camp shared, "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop."
Tips from RVers
RV-accessible options: Some campgrounds combine tent and RV camping. At Walhonding Hills Campground, amenities include "a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
Seasonal considerations: Many RV sites have limited seasonal availability. One seasonal camper at Walhonding Hills noted, "The 4th of July celebration is better than any other town fireworks I've ever seen."
Electric hookups: While most tent-only sites lack power, certain campgrounds offer electric options. Walhonding Hills provides both tent and RV sites with electric hookups, making it suitable for tent campers wanting some conveniences.
