Van Buren State Park Campground offers equestrian camping facilities with recently paved camping pads and proper bumpers. The horse camp section remains separate from regular camping areas, providing a quieter experience for both horses and riders. Electric sites feature fifty-amp hookups, though some connection issues occur occasionally. The campground provides vault toilets without shower facilities and centralized well water access. The dump station requires a short drive to another section of the park. Extensive bridle trails connect throughout the park, featuring varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. Additional amenities include a playground, basketball courts, a dog park, and a wildflower garden. Winter visitors can use the trails for cross-country skiing when conditions permit. Located about 20 minutes from nearby towns, the campground balances accessibility with a natural setting.
What to do
Hiking trails near fairgrounds: The Ashland Fairgrounds offers a convenient base for exploring nearby trails. "Ashland fairgrounds has $20 tent sites or $35 full hookups. You may need an extension cord. All back in sites. Bathrooms are open and close by," notes Charles K.
Cross-country skiing: Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy seasonal activities at Van Buren State Park Campground. Kevin T. shares, "I came cross country skiing here in early January and it was absolutely amazing. It is cold but the terrain is simple for first time skiers."
Tubing and water recreation: River tubing is popular in warmer months. "During the summer I hear it gets pretty busy with people tubing on the river," explains Renée C. about Mohican State Park. The area offers multiple water recreation opportunities within short drives from Monroeville.
What campers like
Variety of camping options: Mohican State Park Campground provides diverse accommodation choices. Nicole K. mentions, "lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. free hike-in camping available here too." John H. adds, "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained grounds. Jenny K. states, "As far as tent camping goes, it does not get any easier than this. Everything is clean and well organized. Perfect for first time campers."
Waterfront sites: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground features lake access points popular with visitors. Andrea F. notes, "Both have easy access to the docks and lake," and Bobby C. adds, "Great Lake close to rafting on Mohican river."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. Andrea F. explains, "Camping in the off season is our favorite time of year. This particular park has potable water on by the dump station and the dump station is open. The water at the full hook up sites are turned off."
Campsite selection important: Some sites have limitations. Brendan V. advises about Van Buren, "Some of the sites are small so you have to be careful which you site you reserve if you're a tent camper. The outside of the circle is your best bet."
Off-grid considerations: Malabar Farm State Park Campground offers more primitive experiences. Shelly S. describes it as "Primitive camping with a gravel parking pad and water, fire ring, picnic table and hitching post. No reservations, this is a first come campground."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Select sites near recreational facilities. Shannon G. notes about Van Buren, "It had a nice playground for kids and plenty of trails to hike or go horseback riding." Brendan V. adds, "If you can get a good middle spot it's nice if you have kids since there's a playground, swings, basketball, and tether court."
Educational experiences: Working farms provide learning opportunities. "Louis Bromfield was a conservationist and among many other things (including winning a Pulitzer) he was in the forefront of organic and self-sustaining gardening. This place is amazing! (and would be an excellent home schoolers camping trip!)," suggests Shelly S.
Water activities for children: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas. "The bike/walking paths for kids/adults is a great addition for campers with young kids. The shower houses are clean as well as the grounds. The lake was high this weekend and the beach was a bit under water, but still fun," writes Tina D.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Some electric sites require additional equipment. At Ashland Fairgrounds, Charles K. advises, "You may need an extension cord. All back in sites."
RV site dimensions: Pleasant Hill offers recently upgraded sites. Michelle H. explains, "The new F sites have concrete pads and plenty of space. Only lacking in mature trees to offer shade."
Generator guidelines: Rules vary by location. Andrea F. notes about Malabar Farm, "We did run our generator during that day but kept it off at night so we didn't disturb other campers. Only 15 sites and most are very sloped but we had site 3 and it was okay."
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