Tent camping near Spencer, Ohio offers access to a mix of state forest lands and private campgrounds within 45 minutes of town. Situated in north-central Ohio, the area features rolling terrain with elevations between 900-1,200 feet and deciduous forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity in July and August, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature swings of 30-40 degrees within 24 hours.
What to do
Trail exploration: 3/4 mile hike: At Park and Pack Campsite 10 — Mohican-Memorial State Forest, access excellent hiking directly from your campsite. "This site is about 3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area. Well marked and easy to find," notes Ryan R., who adds that "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."
Photography opportunities: dawn and dusk: The open fields at Heritage Farms provide exceptional photo opportunities. "Our site was beautiful and private. Sunset was incredible the first night," reports Brady R. The Christmas tree farm setting offers unique backdrops for landscape and nature photography throughout the seasons.
River activities: cold but refreshing: During summer months, the Tuscarawas River near Rivers Edge Camping Area provides cooling relief. "Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit," notes Whiskey B. Tubing is popular when temperatures exceed 85°F, though remember that one reviewer found the river "COLD, but very nice in 90 degree heat."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The campgrounds near Spencer offer good separation between campers. At Heritage Farms, Abbey E. reports, "Our site was beautiful and private. We couldn't really see or hear any other campers." This stands out from more crowded state park campgrounds in the region.
Fire management services: Many campers appreciate the firewood delivery at Heritage Farms. "If you plan on having a fire, you have to purchase wood from them because you can't bring your own (it's a tree farm). One thing I loved is that they will bring the wood up to your campsite for you," explains Abbey E. The service prevents the introduction of invasive species via outside firewood.
Group accommodations: Hidden Hollow Camp receives positive reviews for group camping facilities. "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen," shares Joel C., making it suitable for organized groups requiring common facilities and multiple tent sites.
What you should know
Registration procedures: For forest camping, follow proper registration protocol at Mohican-Memorial State Forest. Ryan R. advises, "If you're unfamiliar w/ the Park & Pack system...make sure to sign in at the kiosk...There's no reservations, you show up, see what sites are available, sign in and drive to the appropriate parking area." This self-registration system can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Water access considerations: Pack sufficient water for forest sites. As Ryan R. notes about Mohican-Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1, "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." Plan for 1-2 gallons per person per day during summer months.
Cell connectivity: Service varies significantly by location and carrier. Kenpocentaur K. reports, "Your cell phone signal (Verizon) will be limited back here. It will work at some of the high points." Download maps before arrival, particularly for navigating to remote forest sites where signal is unreliable.
Tips for camping with families
Site accessibility rating: When camping with children or individuals with mobility considerations, choose sites with easier access. Kenpocentaur K. recommends certain locations in the forest: "This is the easiest and safest to get to if you have any issues with mobility. It is almost a rails and trails walk into this campsite." Consider site distance from parking when planning with young children.
Running room assessment: Valley Overlook and nearby campgrounds offer varying amounts of space for children to play. One Heritage Farms visitor mentioned "lots of room for kiddos to run wild" and notes the area's "extremely close proximity to CVNP" making it suitable for families seeking both camping and park activities.
Transportation assistance: Heritage Farms offers helpful amenities for families struggling with gear transport. Abbey E. explains, "You park near the front of the campgrounds to check in, and then you are provided wagons to carry your gear to your site." This service makes walk-in camping more feasible with children and bulky family equipment.
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: Access to some forest camping areas requires navigating rough roads. Ryan R. cautions about Park and Pack sites: "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." RVs should check road conditions before attempting access to remote sites.
Site selection for larger vehicles: At Rivers Edge Camping Area, proximity to parking makes it more accessible for those with larger equipment. Whiskey B. notes the site has "great access close to parking lot" while still maintaining "privacy between you and the trail." This balance of convenience and seclusion suits RVers who appreciate both.
