Perrysville sits along the Mohican River valley at 1,030 feet elevation with surrounding forested hills that create a unique microclimate for camping. The area receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually, making spring camping sometimes muddy but creating ideal conditions for summer vegetation growth. River levels fluctuate seasonally, with late summer typically seeing lower water levels that affect paddling conditions.
What to Do
Kayaking and canoeing opportunities: Mohican Wilderness offers a seven-mile canoe trip that takes about 2.15 hours to traverse, with plenty of natural scenery. "We took advantage of their seven mile canoe trip which was rich with scenery and again, given the time we had chosen to go, we enjoyed much solitude on the river," notes Jacob W.
Horseback riding: At Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground, visitors can access trails specifically designed for equestrian use. "Lots of activities: WhoaZone, boating, fishing, horseback riding, near Mohican Adventures for rafting, hiking," explains Korinne K., highlighting the diverse activities available in one location.
Miniature golf and games: Family entertainment options extend beyond water activities. "Across the street they have a Canoe livery, mini golf, go carts, ropes course and lots more," reports Lo H. about Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins.
Hiking through Hemlock Gorge: Trails wind through scenic gorges with varied terrain. "The Hemlock Gorge trail is accessible from the end of the campground. People bring rafts and tubes and float down the river to the main campground at the end of the gorge," explains Marci P., describing primitive camping opportunities along the gorge.
What Campers Like
Spacious campsites: The region offers ample room between sites. "The sites are spacious and with the option to park your trailer where you want (grass sites)," describes Shannon P. about Mohican Wilderness, mentioning the flexibility campers appreciate.
Clean facilities: Despite varying age of infrastructure, campgrounds maintain sanitation standards. "Bath houses are clean and well maintained. The sites are nice and large with trees throughout the park," reports Tina D. about Pleasant Hill Lake Park.
Indoor pool access: Unusually for state campgrounds, some locations offer indoor swimming. "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," explains Renee L. about Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins.
Riverside camping: Sites along the Mohican River provide direct water access. "We tent camped and had a private spot in the woods which we loved. The campgrounds covers all the basics. We fished and swam in the indoor pool which was not heated at the time," notes Lo H., describing the combination of wooded privacy and amenities.
What You Should Know
Terrain challenges: Expect uneven ground at several campgrounds. "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!" advises Melissa P. about Mohican Adventures Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is spotty throughout the region. "No cell service with Verizon at this park," mentions Andrea F. about Mohican State Park Campground, something to consider when planning communication needs.
Weather variability: Conditions can change quickly, particularly affecting river activities. "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," reports Lindsey about Mohican Adventures Campground.
Park and Pack logistics: For backcountry camping, registration is required. "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," advises Kenpocentaur K. about primitive camping options in the area.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access considerations: Charles Mill Lake Park Campground offers waterfront recreation for children. "There is a beach side and a lake side both are nice. We have stayed on both. There is a lake with a boat launch near by a playground and beach for families to swim," explains Katelyn P., highlighting options for family swimming.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained. "The Messerly Recreation building had some fun things for kids on Saturday and bingo on Saturday night," notes Joseph E. about Charles Mill Lake Park, mentioning structured entertainment.
Campsite selection for families: Choose locations based on proximity to amenities. "We stayed in a small group of sites which made it safe for kids to run around and play," shares Katelyn P., emphasizing the importance of layout for family camping.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural encounters enhance the family experience. "We had deer that would come over every morning," shares Karrie Kat W., describing the regular wildlife visitors at Charles Mill Lake Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Toodik Family Campground presents challenges for larger units. "Nice clean and friendly staff the only complaint is that the sites are not flat," reports Maria K., highlighting a common issue for RV campers.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies by location and season. "We had a pull through site which was gravel. The staff is friendly and the indoor pool and shower houses were amazing," notes Renee L. about Mohican Adventures Campground.
Campground navigation: Access roads can be challenging. "Roads are narrow & hilly. Electric went out several times over the weekend," cautions Kathy C. about Charles Mill Lake Park, important information for larger rigs.
Weight restrictions: Bridge limits affect access routes for heavier vehicles. "Do note the bridge you need to cross has a weight limit of 10 tons, so larger rigs will need to come up Wally Road from the south," advises Gregory L. about navigating to campgrounds in the region.
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