Perrysville, Ohio sits at 1,135 feet above sea level where the Black Fork Mohican River flows through rolling hills. The area sees four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F, making it prime for outdoor recreation. Campgrounds throughout this region offer sites along waterways with varying amenities from primitive tent-only locations to full-hookup RV pads.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Several free primitive backpacking sites are available within Mohican-Memorial State 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," notes a camper at Mohican State Park Campground.
River activities: The Clear Fork Mohican River offers tubing and kayaking options from spring through fall. "Across the street they have a Canoe livery, mini golf, go carts, ropes course and lots more. So much to do!!" reports a visitor to Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins.
Fishing spots: Charles Mill Lake provides shore and boat fishing opportunities with seasonal stocking. "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," mentions a camper from Charles Mill Lake Park Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campsites with water access are highly rated. "Beautiful lake with lakeside sites. Wooden and peaceful. Bathrooms could be better. They were working on part of the grounds and the improvements are very promising," notes a reviewer at Charles Mill Lake Park.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer swimming in both pools and natural bodies of water. "We had a riverfront spot for 4 nights, enjoyed our stay. 30amp, but the AC was still effective on a couple hot days. Bike trail access right from the campground," explains a camper at River Trail Crossing.
Scenic campsite layouts: Campers appreciate spots that balance privacy with views. "The primitive sites are literally carved out of the side of a hill. The site we chose was on a plateau overlooking the lake and I'd recommend that to anyone!" shares a visitor to Mohican Adventures Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most full-service campgrounds operate April through October. "We've been going to Pleasant Hill for weekend camping for the last 10 years. They have recently put a lot of money in upgrading their campground. There are many seasonal sites but plenty of transient as well," notes a camper at Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground.
Primitive camping registration: For backcountry sites, check in at ranger stations. "The ranger office is closed at this time. Make sure you go to the Mohican Memorial Forest office and not the Mohican State Park office. They are located close to the covered bridge in the park," explains a visitor to Park and Pack Campsite 3.
Crowds vary by season: Summer weekends can be busy, particularly at river access points. "We went in July. It was incredibly crowded. Many sites were set up as buddy sites so we had to share our outside space with our neighbors. It was tight and awkward," cautions a reviewer from Mohican Adventures.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities. "Amazing campgrounds, with great amenities, clean and updated restrooms & shower houses. Indoor pool perfect for the super hot summer months. So much for the kids to do!" shares a visitor to Mohican Adventures.
Accessible camping options: Some sites accommodate mobility challenges. "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," notes a camper at Park and Pack Campsite 3 — Mohican-Memorial State Forest.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds feature historical or agricultural learning experiences. "Louis Bromfield was a conservationist and among many other things (including winning a Pulitzer) he was in the forefront of organic and self-sustaining gardening. This place is amazing! (and would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!)" explains a visitor to Malabar Farm State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site surface quality: RV pads vary widely in material and levelness. "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. The sites seemed a little small so it might feel crowded during peak season," reports an RVer at Whispering Hills Campground Recreation.
Luxury glamping close to Perrysville, Ohio: For those seeking upscale camping without the full RV setup, several sites offer cabins and yurts. "River Trail Crossing is privately owned, small campground (which we like) but nice and quiet. Sites include tents, small rigs and large pull through sites for big rigs. Sites located on the river are water and electric," notes a camper at River Trail Crossing.
Hookup availability: Water and electricity access varies by campground and site. "The sites if everything was full is very cramped. Additionally not a ton to do besides a small park but you can see in the summer time how there would be so much to do!" shares a camper from Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground.
