Mohican-Memorial State Forest in central Ohio offers a diverse range of primitive tent camping opportunities across 4,525 acres of woodland terrain. Most backcountry sites sit at elevations between 1,100-1,300 feet, creating varied hiking conditions to reach campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping means cooler nights and more variable conditions.
What to do
Creek exploration: Several tent camping sites near Perrysville, Ohio are positioned near small waterways perfect for wading. At Park and Pack Campsite 3, you'll need to cross a stream to access the site, which is "beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream." The water level varies seasonally but typically remains shallow enough for crossing.
Trail connections: The network of trails around tent camping areas in Mohican connects to longer routes. Park and Pack Campsite 10 offers access to multiple connecting paths. One camper noted, "We had another camper over by that spot so I didn't take pictures of his gear. He had a hammock and tent set up. He was camping at the spot for a week for his vacation."
Seasonal photography: The landscape changes dramatically throughout the year, making tent camping near Perrysville ideal for photographers. From one campsite, a visitor mentioned wanting to "head back in the fall and or winter to enjoy the view of the gorge in different seasons." Morning light creates particularly good conditions for photos from elevated sites.
What campers like
Privacy levels: The Park and Pack sites provide seclusion compared to standard campgrounds. At Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1, campers appreciate the isolation: "A well hidden campsite. We almost walked past it and didn't even know it. This is one of the smallest camp sites." This spot offers a different experience than the larger, more visible sites.
Hammock options: Several backcountry sites feature excellent trees for hammock camping. According to one visitor to Site 1, "You can easily hang hammocks back here. If I were to pick which way I would go for this site it would be hammock camping hands down." The spacing and maturity of trees make this possible.
Water access: Some sites offer direct creek access, which campers appreciate for ambient sound and practicality. A visitor to Mohican Memorial State Forest noted their site "was right by the creek. The creek was clear and cool." Water levels typically range from ankle to calf-deep depending on recent rainfall.
What you should know
Site registration process: All Park and Pack campers must register at the kiosk. As one 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." Registration is located at Co Rd 939, Perrysville, OH.
Cell service limitations: Most backcountry tent camping sites have poor connectivity. According to reviews, "Limited cell phone signal while here but this had the best signal out of the 10 sites." Plan accordingly and download maps before arrival.
Trail conditions: Access trails to tent sites can become muddy, particularly where they overlap with horse trails. A camper at Rivers Edge Camping Area noted: "The camp site is a short walk and was very nice." Expect variable trail conditions based on recent weather.
Tips for camping with families
Distance considerations: When tent camping with children near Perrysville, choose closer sites for easier access. Site 10 is "about 3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area," making it manageable for families. Shorter sites like Site 4 may be better for younger children.
Site selection for ease: Some backcountry sites are more family-friendly than others. One camper noted Site 4 "is a great spot if your legs are tired after a long day of hiking or if you did too many hills that day. Or if you're a beginner camper, or family that want to try something new, it's easy to walk into and out of."
Water planning: With no drinking water available at primitive tent sites, families need to carry all water needed. For Hidden Hollow Camp, a reviewer mentioned, "Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine." More developed facilities may work better for first-time family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Alternative options: While primitive tent camping dominates the Perrysville area, RV options exist nearby. At Walhonding Hills Campground, located about 30 minutes from Perrysville, RVers can find more developed sites. A camper noted they "have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
