Located about 20 miles south of Canton, Ohio, equestrian camping areas offer opportunities for riders seeking woodland trails in the Appalachian foothills region. The area features rolling terrain averaging 1,100 feet above sea level with moderate temperatures from May through October. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring bringing muddy sections while fall offers firmer footing.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Multiple campgrounds provide direct access to established riding paths. At Mohican Wilderness, campers can enjoy on-site trail riding. As Shannon P. notes, "They offer on river and off river sites... They are full of amenities like: horse back riding, shooting sports, canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more."
Fishing opportunities: Fish in streams and lakes throughout the region. At West Branch State Park Campground, Katelyn P. mentions, "Great site! Shades lots of space semi private area. Right off the water with area to tie boat for easy water access."
Hiking networks: Most equestrian campgrounds connect to extensive trail systems. At Beaver Creek State Park Campground, Tracy H. notes there is "direct access to the North Country National Scenic Trail and trails through main park."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Unlike crowded campgrounds, horse-friendly areas typically provide larger camping spaces. At Mohican Wilderness, Andrea F. confirms, "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."
Clean facilities: Equestrian campers appreciate well-maintained bathroom facilities. At West Branch, Teresa B. mentions, "I love this campground. Nice people and very clean! Lots of nice sites."
Water access: Many campgrounds provide waterfront options for swimming or fishing after trail rides. Rino S. from West Branch shares, "We're at site 160. No electricity, no hook ups, but a HUGE lakefront site. Beach is right next door too!"
What you should know
Reservations required: Popular horse camping areas book quickly, especially during summer. For Mohican State Park Campground, Alisa G. advises, "Make reservations! (6 months in advance). Waterside sites fill up quickly!"
Terrain challenges: Some campsites have uneven ground. Andrea F. from West Branch notes, "First the water fill is on an incline so when our tank was 'full' pulling away from fill station it was really only 2/3 full... our site was labeled slight slope. That was a joke. We were only off 2 inches side to side but front to back we had to lower the front 15 inches."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. At Beaver Creek, Danielle S. notes, "As others have mentioned, there is a gun range nearby and you can hear occasional firing. Helicopter traffic at night was a slight distraction from the otherwise quiet night I spent here."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jefferson Lake State Park Campground offers various recreation options. Theresa Tittle R. states, "Clean water, restrooms, playground, sand volleyball and basketball court. Dump station and 18 miles of multi use trails! Small lake for wading with the kiddos, fishing near the dam or skip rocks in the creek."
Beginner-friendly horse trails: Some equestrian campgrounds offer rides suitable for children. At Mohican Wilderness, Shannon P. describes it as "a family friendly campground with lots to do... horse back riding... canoeing, playground, swimming lake, putt putt and more."
Educational opportunities: Several horse facilities provide learning experiences. At Hidden Hollow Campground in Fernwood State Forest, Justin T. notes, "It is a very well maintenance campsite most have fire pits a lot of level ground for tent camping pull in parking spots for RVs and campers a bathroom on site and two different trails to hike fishing minutes away."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: When traveling with horses and RVs, confirm utility connections. At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, Eddie advises, "Only 5 electric sites. Very clean pit toilets. Well maintained campground. A few equine sites. Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord."
Access considerations: Some horse campgrounds have challenging approaches. At Beaver Creek, Ken M. notes it's a "Small park, only a few sites with hookups, but very nice. Rustic, with trails to the main park that take you through beautiful woods."
Site selection: Choose appropriate sites for your RV size. For Hidden Hollow Campground in Fernwood State Forest, Donald F. confirms, "No problem getting 40' skoolie in and parked in mostly level spots. Camp fire rings and picnic tables at most sites. Hand pump available, grey water pits and trash cans available."
