Tent camping near Shelby, Ohio offers backcountry experiences in the broader Mohican region beyond the established state park. The area sits within Ohio's Appalachian foothills at elevations ranging from 900-1200 feet, creating varied terrain for hikers and campers. Primitive camping options require campers to travel between 20-45 minutes from Shelby to reach trailheads and registration points.
What to do
Water activities at Clear Fork Reservoir: Clear Fork Marina and Campground is located approximately 15 miles west of Shelby, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and shoreline relaxation. The 997-acre reservoir offers a different camping experience than the forest settings.
Trail exploration on bridle paths: Mohican Memorial State Forest maintains multiple trail systems that connect many of the primitive camping areas. According to one camper, "The trail itself is flat, wide and conditions depend on recent rainfall and horse use. It was mostly dry with some muddy areas to navigate around."
Hammock camping options: Several sites throughout the forest are particularly well-suited for hammock setups. At Park and Pack Campsite 10, "There are plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks. After my daughter and I set up camp near the fire ring we explored and found spots below the SE edge."
Winter camping experiences: For those seeking solitude, the off-season provides unique opportunities. One reviewer noted their "Winter Overnight" experience: "The Park & Pack sites were a bit confusing online, so I decided on a solo exploratory trip before bringing my 9yr out."
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Park and Pack Campsite 3 offers water features that campers appreciate. "This campsite was one of my favorites as it was right by the creek. The creek was clear and cool. It was also far enough away that I wouldn't be constantly worried about it."
Private secluded sites: Many campers value the isolation of certain locations. "This campsite you just briefly leave the main trail to cross the creek to your own private campsite. We loved loved this site. We felt so spoiled as it isn't the crowded state parking campsite that you often think of when camping."
Sunset viewing spots: Some sites offer specific vantage points for evening skies. "The sunset photo is by the entrance of the parking lot to the campsite. This is the 2nd easiest campsite to walk into out of the 10. If you have any mobility issues this is the second best camp site to go to."
Spacious multi-tent areas: For group camping, certain sites provide ample room. One camper at Campsite 10 noted, "It would be hard to put a big tent here so make sure you use your smaller tents. 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."
What you should know
Registration requirements: All primitive camping requires sign-in at the ranger station. One visitor to Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1 warned, "Make sure you register for your site and do not camp illegally. It is an issue here and they are looking to make sure folks did register at the kiosk at the ranger station."
Seasonal closures possible: Some campers have encountered unexpected closures. "THE FREE CAMPING IS CLOSED!!!!!! We went to the location of the office to fill out a slip for the free camping sites and they are all closed now. We ended up staying at the state park campground for $33 which is not too bad."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies greatly between sites. "I had limited cell phone signal while here but this had the best signal out of the 10 sites," notes one camper, while another reports, "No cell phone service for Verizon at this site."
Water crossings required: Some sites involve traversing streams. "This site was one of my favorites as it was right by the creek... Crossing the creek the water at this time was ankle high." Another camper mentions, "This one does have a creek crossing after you leave the camp site. It was the deepest part of the creek and muddy leading up to it."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Hidden Hollow Camp offers group-friendly facilities that work well for families. "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine."
Consider mobility requirements: Some sites are more suitable for children or those with mobility concerns. "If you have any mobility issues this is the second best camp site to go to as most of it is along the wide access road and mountain bike trail."
Pack water accordingly: No water sources exist at many primitive sites. "The only con I would give the site is there's no water source, so you have to pack in all your water needs. Being the middle of summer that was quite a bit for my daughter and me."
Download maps before arrival: Paper maps may be incomplete. "Make sure that you look for the red blazes on the trees at the start of the trail. I would recommend downloading the various bridle trails (Mohican) on the AllTrails app. The paper map provided at the trail head was missing some information."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options in forest areas: Walhonding Hills Campground offers more amenities for RVers than the primitive forest sites. "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well."
State park alternative for hookups: When primitive sites are unavailable, Mohican State Park provides alternatives. "We ended up staying at the state park campground for $33 which is not too bad. We had a beautiful spot in the water."
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds near Shelby have tight quarters. "Sites are close together. Our fire pit is less than 3 feet away from the next camper," reports one RVer staying at a developed campground in the region.
Seasonal activities worth planning around: Some campgrounds offer special events. "The 4th of July celebration is better than any other town fireworks I've ever seen. The owners are awesome!"
