Tent camping options near Sunbury, Ohio offer varying levels of wilderness immersion with multiple primitive sites located within 40 minutes of town. The region features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet and moderately humid summers that typically remain below 90°F. At Mohican Memorial State Forest, campsites are distributed along a network of bridle trails, with most requiring hikers to register before setting up camp.
What to do
Backpacking gear testing: Scioto Grove Metro Park provides an ideal environment for testing equipment. "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," notes camper Zach. The trail system offers gentle terrain suitable for beginners.
Creek exploration: The park and pack sites at Mohican State Park Campground include several options near water features. "This site was one of my favorites as it was right by the creek. The creek was clear and cool," explains one camper about Site 2. Some sites require creek crossings that range from ankle to calf deep depending on recent rainfall.
Rope bridge crossing: Children particularly enjoy the suspension bridge at Scioto Grove. "Backpacking sites, rope bridge crossing over a creek that kids and adults would love to explore. Wide trails, grass fields and woods that are beautiful all seasons," writes Karen K. This feature provides a memorable addition to the hiking experience.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campers appreciate the privacy found at Park and Pack Campsite 10. One reviewer noted, "Site 10 is about 3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area. Well marked and easy to find. There are plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks." This site features views of a gorge from its elevated position.
Reservation-free options: The first-come, first-served system at Park and Pack Campsite 3 appeals to spontaneous campers. As one visitor explained, "It is nice no official check in and check out time like you have at the state park campsites. However, the early bird does get the worm or in this case the camp site."
Firewood provisions: At Scioto Grove, campers appreciate not having to gather or bring their own wood. "Need to reserve online, books up very fast. Got lucky and found an opening for site 5 which was right on river and away from the busier parts of park. Nice tent pads, campfire ring, and provided wood," shares Anna S.
What you should know
Registration requirements: For the best tent camping near Sunbury, Ohio, advance planning is essential. At Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1, "Make sure you register for your site and do not camp illegally. It is an issue here and they are looking to make sure folks did register at the kiosk at the ranger station." Registration is handled through a clipboard system at the forest office.
Limited water access: Bring all needed water as natural sources may be unreliable. One Park and Pack Site 10 visitor advised, "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."
Difficult site locations: Some campsites can be challenging to find. A camper at Site 4 shared, "This campsite was the hardest for us to find but it is the easiest to get to in terms of walking. How does this happen? We took the main trail head at the bridle parking lot but this isn't where you should go."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some campsites offer easier access for families with young children. "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," explains a reviewer about Campsite 4 at Mohican Memorial Forest.
Weekend limitations: At Geneva Hills - Camp and Event Center, scheduling can be restrictive. One camper noted, "Only weekend stays and it ends in wintertime." This limitation affects planning for family trips, particularly for those seeking weekday options.
Seasonal popularity: Summer weekends fill quickly at the best tent camping spots near Sunbury, Ohio. "Need to reserve online, books up very fast," warns a Scioto Grove camper. For family camping during peak season, make reservations as soon as the booking window opens.
Tips from RVers
ATV-friendly options: Walhonding Hills Campground caters to recreational vehicle enthusiasts with specific amenities. "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well," shares Carrie H. This campground operates seasonally from April to October.
Know the mixed-use trails: At Mohican Memorial State Forest, RVers should understand trail designations. "The trail is also the horse trail in the forest. The water is muddy so I wouldn't creek at this spot but it does have easy water access," notes one camper, highlighting the impact of multiple uses on trail conditions.
Seasonal closures: Availability changes throughout the year. As one visitor discovered, "THE FREE CAMPING IS CLOSED!!! We went to the location of the office to fill out a slip for the free camping sites and they are all closed now."
