Tent camping near Pataskala, Ohio offers several primitive options within an hour's drive, typically in well-marked but limited-amenity forest settings. Most sites require registration at ranger stations or kiosks before setting up camp. Campgrounds in this region of central Ohio sit at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating moderate hiking conditions with gentle elevation changes that suit beginning backpackers and weekend adventurers.
What to do
Trail running and hiking access: Scioto Grove Metro Park features wide, well-maintained trails suitable for all skill levels. One camper 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."
Mountain biking preparation: Sites like Mohican State Park Campground serve as excellent base camps for accessing regional trail systems. Campsite 10 has "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," making it convenient for mountain bikers wanting early trail access.
Gear testing before longer trips: Scioto Grove's backpacking trail specifically accommodates gear testing. A reviewer mentioned, "Free reserve ahead weekend backpacking campsites. All sites have 2 tent pads, a fire ring and firewood provided. Some have log seating and some do not."
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Park and Pack Campsite 3 offers stream proximity at Mohican Memorial State Forest. A camper described it as "beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it."
Private sites away from crowds: Campers consistently rate the Park and Pack sites at Mohican Memorial Forest highly for seclusion. One visitor to Campsite 10 shared, "The whole area is beautiful and scenic. I'd like to head back in the fall and or winter to enjoy the view of the gorge in different seasons."
First-time backpacking experience: Benton's on the Baileys provides entry-level backpacking with convenient amenities. A reviewer wrote, "Excellent campground that is tucked out of the way. You have to walk to the site, up a steep hill, but it is very private and quiet. The bathrooms are down the hill too, but very clean and private."
What you should know
Registration requirements: Park and Pack sites at Mohican require in-person registration. A camper explained, "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."
Limited campsite availability: Most primitive sites book quickly during peak season. One visitor to Geneva Hills - Camp and Event Center reported, "Tent site was nice. We could make dinner and there weren't any mosquitoes even though it was right above a swamp. It was a nice driving distance from Hocking Hills and a neat place to camp."
Water access concerns: Pack in all water for sites without water sources. A camper at Mohican's Site 10 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 for my daughter and me."
Weekend-only camping limitations: Some areas restrict camping to weekends. A Scioto Grove visitor noted, "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Stream crossing preparation: Bring water shoes for stream crossings at certain sites. At Mohican Memorial Forest, "Campsite number 3 is also on a short creek crossing. Nothing to worry about with your pack on this August sunny day. It had plenty of space for tents and hammocks."
Accessibility considerations: Some sites offer easier access for families. According to one camper, "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."
Kid-friendly attractions: Old Stone Church Trailhead offers accessible hiking combined with camping. A visitor commented, "Beautiful. Nicely maintained. Well marked. Parking can be on side of road or down below where campsites are."
Tips for RVers
Primitive RV options: Smaller rigs can use select areas like Old Stone Church Campground. A camper described, "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV-accessible campgrounds operate April through October. At Walhonding Hills Campground, a seasonal camper reported, "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."
Connection reliability: Cell service varies widely by location. One camper at Old Stone Church noted, "I had good 4G ATT cell service. Worked well, with no drops. Data was a bit slower than usual but still good."
