Primitive camping sites near Wilmot, Ohio offer backcountry experiences in heavily wooded areas with varying terrain. The region features numerous sites at elevations between 900-1,200 feet, with spring temperatures averaging 45-65°F and summer temperatures typically reaching 70-85°F. Winter camping options remain limited due to seasonal closures at most facilities from November through March.
What to do
River activities: Rivers Edge Camping Area offers convenient access to the Tuscarawas River with tent sites positioned alongside the waterway. "Great access close to parking lot with privacy between you and the trail. Right alongside the river with a picnic table and firepit," notes reviewer Whiskey B. The adjacent river supports fishing and photography opportunities year-round.
Trail exploration: The Park and Pack Campsite 3 — Mohican-Memorial State Forest connects directly to extensive bridle trails and hiking paths. "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," reports Ryan R. The site requires crossing a stream to access camping areas.
Christmas tree farm exploration: For a unique camping experience, Heritage Farms offers tent camping within a working Christmas tree farm. "I stayed here with some friends for one night and I would love to go back. Be prepared - you park near the front of the campgrounds to check in, and then you are provided wagons to carry your gear to your site," explains Abbey E. The farm environment creates distinctive camping surroundings.
What campers like
Secluded stream-side settings: The primitive sites at Park and Pack Campsite 10 — Mohican-Memorial State Forest offer exceptional natural privacy. "This was my second time enjoying Mohican State Forest's Park & Pack sites. I took my daughter to site 10 for an overnighter," writes Ryan R., who further explains, "Site 10 is about 3/4 of a mile down the trail from the upper parking area. Well marked and easy to find. There are plenty of areas to set up shelter and hang hammocks."
Scenic farm views: Many campers appreciate the distinctive setting at Heritage Farms. "Our shelter site was just next to the gravel parking area and overlooked the farm as well as had a great view of the sunset," notes Shari G. The farm setting creates an agricultural atmosphere distinct from typical forest camping.
Reliable toilet facilities: Despite the primitive nature of many sites, campers appreciate the consistent toilet maintenance. At Rivers Edge, "The porta potty was very big, clean and had hand sanitizer," according to Rebecca K. Similarly, at Heritage Farms, "The well-maintained porta-potties near the main building make this a great option for those who aren't into fully roughing it," observes Josh W.
What you should know
Registration requirements: For best tent camping near Wilmot, Ohio, advance registration processes vary by location. At Mohican State Park Campground, "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," advises Kenpocentaur K. Registration for Park and Pack sites operates on a first-come basis.
Water considerations: Potable water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "No drinking water on site- but there is wash up water & very clean porta potties," reports Alyssa F. regarding Heritage Farms. At Rivers Edge, "No running water but close to gas stations and restaurants," notes Whiskey B.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity becomes problematic at most backcountry sites. "I had limited cell phone signal while here but this had the best signal out of the 10 sites," observes Kenpocentaur K. about Park and Pack Campsite 10. Most primitive sites require downloading maps in advance due to inconsistent reception.
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty assessment: When selecting Mohican Memorial State Forest Park and Pack Site 1 with children, consider the creek crossing conditions. "This one does have a creek crossing after you leave the camp site. It was the deepest part of the creek and muddy leading up to it," warns Kenpocentaur K. This crossing may challenge younger children with gear.
Wagons for gear transport: Heritage Farms provides equipment to ease family camping logistics. "You do have to carry your belongings into the campsites, but it wasn't too horrible for us, esp. since our campsite was right off the walking path. The provided wagons and wheelbarrows make it easier too," shares Brady R.
Campground selection for mobility considerations: For families with varying physical abilities, certain sites provide 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," explains Kenpocentaur K. about Park and Pack Campsite 4, noting it features "gravel but this site and number 10 is what I would pick for [someone with mobility challenges]."
Tips from RVers
Group camping options: For RV camping with multiple families, Hidden Hollow Camp provides suitable facilities. "We have camped here multiple times with our scout troop. Facilities are excellent with a large clubhouse with kitchen. Vault toilets are fine," reports Joel C., indicating the site accommodates organized groups effectively.
Off-road recreation access: Walhonding Hills Campground combines RV camping with recreational vehicle opportunities. "They have a pool and atv trails on campground property. Great for doom buggies, side by sides, and 4 wheelers, dirt bikes as well," notes Carrie H., highlighting the additional recreational options beyond standard camping.
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should note that most facilities operate 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," reports Gabrielle K. about a winter visit to Mohican Memorial State Forest, indicating the importance of checking seasonal availability.
