Camping near Mansfield, Ohio offers a range of primitive to full-hookup options throughout the region's mixed hardwood forests. Located in north-central Ohio, the area features rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 900-1400 feet and seasonal temperatures that can swing from humid 90°F summers to below-freezing winters. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though water access points typically close from November through March.
What to do
Hiking at Mt. Gilead: Just 30 minutes west of Mansfield, this small state park offers hiking trails and disc golf. "The park is nice for fishing and hiking and there are spots for the kids to play," notes Bret J., who visited in 2019.
Primitive backpacking: Mohican Memorial State Forest provides free backcountry sites for backpackers. "There are 10 free camp sites for backpackers in Mohican, each is about a mile hike in, no vehicles can reach these sites. There are 4 on the mountain bike trail and 6 on the horse trails, first come first serve, no reservations," explains John H.
Water activities: Pleasant Hill Lake Park Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "The lake is an all sport lake so there is fishing, tubing, jet skis and kayaking. The marina has boat rentals available," writes Michelle H., who has camped there for over a decade.
Trail connections: Most campgrounds connect to broader trail networks. "Lots of hiking trails and waterfalls. Free hike-in camping available here too," reports Nicole K. about the extensive trail system.
What campers like
Secluded options: The Park and Pack sites at Mohican State Park Campground provide solitude. "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," writes Kenpocentaur K.
Clean facilities: Many Mansfield-area campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms. "Bath houses are clean and well maintained. The camp host makes several rounds around the park and was very friendly," notes Jana H. about her stay at Mt. Gilead State Park.
Winter camping: For off-season campers, Charles Mill Lake Park Campground offers year-round options. "Open and almost full on 5/30/20. We stopped for one night on our way from VT to CO. Tho they messed up and double booked our site (a really nice one on quieter waterfront side) we were able to get another waterfront one by marina," shares Monica F.
Accessible natural settings: The area combines convenience with natural surroundings. "Charles Mills Lake is a Great place for waterfront camping and if you like boating. The grounds are well maintained and the primitive sites are pretty well secluded," says Ken P.
What you should know
First-come sites: The park and pack sites require registration at a kiosk. "Make sure you get a reservation at the kiosk by the ranger station in the forest. Do not go to the state park as that is completely different," warns a visitor to site #10.
Seasonal campers: River Trail Crossing and other parks host many seasonal campers. "We had a riverfront spot for 4 nights, enjoyed our stay. 30amp, but the AC was still effective on a couple hot days. Bike trail access right from the campground," writes Bob M.
Varied site quality: Even within the same campground, site quality differs significantly. "The sites are mostly level but are short & close to each other. Roads are narrow & hilly. Electric went out several times over the weekend," reports Kathy C. about Charles Mill Lake Park.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Only downfall is trying to find an open spot for reservations. Place is booked most of the time. If you're planning a holiday weekend you need to book 6 months in advance," advises Jeffrey L.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For first-time campers, Mohican Adventures Campground and Cabins offers a gentle introduction. "Amazing campgrounds, with great amenities, clean and updated restrooms & shower house. Indoor pool perfect for the super hot summer months. So much for the kids to do!" reports Nicole S.
Kid-friendly activities: The Mohican region includes numerous built-in entertainment options. "Great campground with lots to do! RV sites are a little small and close together, but comes with a picnic table and fire pit. There are back in and pull through RV spots - along with nice shady spots for tent camping," writes Kelly L.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas for children. "There is a beach side and a lake side both are nice. We have stayed on both. There is a lake with a boat launch near by a playground and beach for families to swim. Kid friendly activities available while we were there," shares Katelyn P. about Charles Mill Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on size and layout. "Our site was a concrete pad and our grassy area was on a hill. It is dog friendly and the shower house was clean. They also have laundry available," notes Renee L. about Mt. Gilead State Park.
Winter camping: Findley State Park Campground accommodates off-season RVers. "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," reports Andrea F.
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Nice clean and friendly staff the only complaint is that the sites are not flat," reports Maria K. about River Trail Crossing, reflecting a common theme across several area campgrounds.
