The Perrysville area features a mix of forested highlands and river valleys with elevations ranging between 930-1,300 feet throughout the Mohican region. Winter camping temperatures typically fall to 20°F, while summer highs reach 85°F with humidity levels between 65-80%. Many campsites along the Clear Fork Mohican River require advance planning during summer weekends when water levels are optimal for paddling activities.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Several trail networks accommodate riders of varying skill levels at Mohican State Park Campground. "The hiking trails are great with a covered bridge, overlook and waterfalls. Mountain bike trails are located within the campground as well as a pool," notes Andrea F.
Horseback riding: Trails specifically designed for equestrian use run through parts of the forest system. One visitor at Charles Mill Lake Park Campground mentioned, "There is a beach side and a lake side both are nice. There is a lake with a boat launch near by a playground and beach for families to swim. Kid friendly activities available while we were there."
Shooting sports: Some facilities offer supervised target practice. A camper at Mohican Wilderness pointed out, "They are full of amenities like: horse back riding, shooting sports, canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more."
Winter camping: Off-season opportunities exist with reduced crowds. "Another Thanksgiving spent in our camper and it was so nice and relaxing. There were more campers than expected this weekend. I guess everyone likes to social distance in their campers too. Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year," shared Andrea F.
What campers like
Spacious riversites: Many campgrounds offer sites directly on the water. According to a visitor at Mohican Wilderness, "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."
Indoor pools: Several facilities maintain year-round swimming options. A camper at Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins explained, "We camped here off season and had the place to ourselves. We had a pull through site which was gravel. The staff is friendly and the indoor pool and shower houses were amazing."
Primitive backpacking sites: Free backcountry camping options exist throughout the forest. "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites. There are 4 on the mountain bike trail and 6 on the horse trails, first come first serve, no reservations," reports John H.
Off-grid experiences: Some campers appreciate the technology break. A visitor at Mohican Wilderness noted, "Very easy to find... the campsite was very beautiful, right on the river. First time I had been camping in almost 30 years... we didn't have any cell service but I was not expecting it. It was great to be screen free for a couple days."
What you should know
Site registration varies: Different camping areas have distinct registration procedures. For Park and Pack Campsite 10, one camper advises, "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."
Trail navigation challenges: Some primitive camping areas have confusing access points. "Personally the directions on the kiosk where you sign in are misleading and to me really just plain wrong. The directions were correct once we got to the trailhead BUT there was no way to know where the trail head was or what the name of it was," explains Deli S.
Uneven terrain: Many sites require careful tent placement. A visitor to Charles Mill Lake Park Campground observed, "The sites are mostly level but are short & close to each other. Roads are narrow & hilly."
Seasonal population differences: The camper demographics shift throughout the year. "This is a popular seasonal site for many. Many pontoon boats and kayaks on the lake," shares Monica F., while another adds, "The low energy because of the amount of seasonal campers at this campground. They stay to themselves and do not get too social."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Multiple options for swimming exist beyond the river. At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, one camper reports, "We had a great time at Pleasant Hill. The bike/walking paths for kids/adults is a great addition for campers with young kids."
Try novice backpacking: Some primitive sites are accessible for beginners. "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. I have a friend with mobility challenges and can walk on wide open trails," explains Kenpocentaur K.
Consider spacing between sites: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. "Super super big place as far as campsites go and quantity. Definitely a good place to go not super secluded tho, perfect for families!" advises Katie Jo B.
Look for playground options: Several campgrounds feature multiple play areas. At Mohican Adventures, "There are back in and pull through RV spots - along with nice shady spots for rent camping. Great spot to camp if interested in tubing/canoeing/kayaking down Mohican river. Quite a few playgrounds available and mountain bike trails."
Tips from RVers
Cell service limitations: Communication can be challenging in certain areas. A camper notes about Mohican State Park, "No cell service with Verizon at this park."
Seasonal hookup changes: Water availability changes with seasons. "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," explains an off-season visitor.
Site selection considerations: Elevation and drainage impact RV sites. "The sites of this place are spread out over a lot of acreage. We stayed at the bottom of the hill along the river. The spaces down by the river are large and relatively flat," observes Lauri J.
New facilities: Recent improvements have occurred at some campgrounds. At Pleasant Hill, "Our first visit to the park was early in the camping season, and on a warm and beautiful spring weekend. The atmosphere was amazing in the park. We will opt for full hook up since those sites look brand new."
