Tent camping near Waynesburg, Ohio concentrates in the forested regions within a 60-mile radius. The area features primarily hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet, creating moderate hiking conditions for accessing remote sites. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping often requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Mohican State Park Campground, campers can wade through clear streams with water levels typically ankle-high during summer months. "The creek was clear and cool. It was also far enough away that I wouldn't be constantly worried about it. Still something to be mindful of when camping near water," notes one camper about Park and Pack Site 2.
River tubing: During hot summer days, cool off in the river near campsites. "Probably the least done and most worth it item to do is the river. If you are in the park there are areas to walk up river and jump in with a tube and float back down to the camp areas and get out. River was COLD, but very nice in 90 degree heat," explains a camper from Mohican Memorial State Forest.
Trail navigation: The bridle trails around Mohican create an extensive network requiring navigation skills. One camper advises, "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."
What campers like
Secluded ledges: The Park and Pack Campsite 10 offers unique features beyond the main camping area. "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. You can also get there by continuing east past the last Site 10 trail marker," describes one experienced camper.
Swimming options: Tee Pee Family Campground provides swimming facilities that families appreciate. "The pond was fantastic. Has a large inflatable slide and a dock that you can jump off of in the middle. Kids loved it," shares a camper who visited with children.
Winter accessibility: The park and pack sites remain open during winter months, offering year-round camping opportunities. "After getting to the Ranger kiosk everything was pretty self explanatory. I stayed at Campsite 3, which was beautiful, tucked off of the trail beside a wide stream. Fair warning, you do have to cross a stream to get to it," notes a winter camper.
What you should know
Registration procedures: Before heading to the campsites, proper registration is mandatory. A camper explains, "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. For the forest office I go to Co Rd 939, Perrysville, OH 44864."
Site locations: Some Park and Pack Campsite 3 locations can be difficult to find without proper directions. "First off this campsite was the hardest for us to find but it is the easiest to get to in terms of walking. How does this happen? We took the main trail head at the bridle parking lot but this isn't where you should go."
Closure updates: Always check current status before planning a trip. A recent visitor warns, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Mobility considerations: For families with children or those with mobility concerns, certain sites offer easier access. "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. I have a friend with mobility challenges and can walk on wide open trails," advises a camper about Site 4.
Campsite space assessment: Some sites accommodate larger family groups better than others. At Hidden Hollow Camp, "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine," reports a group leader.
Water safety planning: When camping with children near water sources, plan accordingly. One camper notes about their creek-side site, "This site 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. Still something to be mindful of when camping near water."
Tips from RVers
Campground atmosphere: At Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1, RVers note the family-friendly environment. "Stayed here a few times with just power at site. Was at main Camp ground with RV's all around. Seemed pretty popular yet was quiet enough. People were very respectful and careful driving around as kids and families tend to walk/ride bikes around."
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom quality varies significantly across locations. One RVer reports, "The campsites are not as private as the pictures make it look. There are a LOT of campers and tents; it feels busy and crowded. Showers not clean and broken; hot water questionable. We liked being close to the hiking trails this morning and it was dog friendly."
Site privacy concerns: Many RV sites lack the seclusion tent campers might expect. A camper at Tee Pee Family Campground notes, "Sites are close together. Our fire pit is less than 3 feet away from the next camper. No Wi-Fi. 2 bathhouses for the entire campground. And it's a decent walk to get to them if you are just there for a weekend."
