Tent camping options near Shreve, Ohio include dispersed sites in the Mohican-Memorial State Forest area. The forest sits at an elevation of approximately 1,200 feet and spans over 4,500 acres with terrain featuring ravines and creeks throughout the property. Winter camping is possible with temperatures that can drop below freezing, while summer brings humid conditions with daytime highs typically in the 80s.
What to do
Creek access for water filtering: Park and Pack Campsite 3 offers creek access for campers needing to filter water. "This site was one of my favorites as it was right by the creek. The creek was clear and cool," notes one visitor who appreciated the water proximity.
Trail exploration preparation: Bring a downloaded trail map before venturing into the bridle trail system as wayfinding can be challenging. "Download your maps before you go," suggests a camper at Campsite 3, emphasizing limited cell service. The trail system connects multiple camping areas but can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Winter camping experiences: Cold-weather enthusiasts can enjoy off-season camping with proper preparation. "The Park & Pack sites were a bit confusing online, so I decided on a solo exploratory trip before bringing my 9yr out," shares a camper who tested winter conditions at Campsite 3 before returning with family.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Campsite preference depends on desired seclusion and surrounding features. At Campsite 10, a camper reports: "You can find a short 'trail' at the NE edge of the campsite that leads down to a ledge where a couple unofficial fire rings have been built." These secondary spaces provide additional camping options beyond the main area.
Group accommodation: Several sites can accommodate multiple tents without feeling crowded. "This site was great for both hammocks and tents. You could have a small group here and not feel crowded," writes a visitor to Mohican Memorial State Forest about site #2.
Parking logistics: The parking situation varies by site. For Campsite 10, a visitor explains: "After signing in at the kiosk we drove and parked at the upper parking area for sites 8-10. The last 1/4 mile of the road is pretty rutted, so if you have a low profile vehicle you may need to park at the lower area."
What you should know
Registration requirements: All tent campers must sign in at the forest kiosk. "Make sure that you look for the red blazes on the trees at the start of the trail," advises a camper at Mohican-Memorial Forest Park and Pack Site 1, recommending downloading trail maps on the AllTrails app since paper maps can be incomplete.
Unregistered camping enforcement: Rangers monitor for unregistered campers and may ask others to report violations. One camper experienced this issue: "I went back and checked the kiosk, and they were not registered. I stayed anyways, down the little ledge to the left when looking at the site."
Campsite selection timing: Arrive early to secure preferred sites since they fill quickly. "The early bird does get the worm or in this case the camp site. It is harder for folks that live further away to get their hands on a site. As there are only 10," notes a visitor to Campsite 3.
Tips for camping with families
Mobility-friendly sites: For families with children or those with mobility concerns, choose sites with easier access. At Park and Pack site #4, a visitor shares: "It is almost a rails and trails walk into this campsite. I have a friend with mobility challenges and can walk on wide open trails."
Multi-night testing: Consider an initial solo trip before bringing children. "I decided on a solo exploratory trip before bringing my 9yr out," explains a camper who tested conditions before returning with family members.
Cell service considerations: Most sites have limited or no cell service. "This had the best signal out of the 10 sites," notes a camper about Campsite 10, though service remains minimal throughout the forest. This information helps families prepare for limited communication during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Alternative options when Park and Pack sites close: Hidden Hollow Camp offers group camping with additional amenities when the free sites are unavailable. "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine," reports one group leader.
Seasonal campground availability: RVers seeking hookups should note that availability changes seasonally. "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," reports a recent visitor to Site 1, indicating that alternatives may be needed during certain periods.
