State parks are truly one of the unmentioned gems of America’s park system. While the National Parks attract millions of visitors each year and stun people with their size and beauty, there’s just as much that can be said about state parks.
After all, once the weather is nice, who doesn’t love spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and enjoying naturalist programs? You can find dozens of these in every state, but in this post, we want to highlight Mohican State Park.
Camping Mohican State Park
Tucked into approximately 1,100 acres in Ashland County, Ohio, Mohican State Park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. This state park also abuts the 4,500 acre Mohican Memorial State Forest. That means there is plenty of fun to be had on a weekend camping trip or just a day on the trails.
The state park is popular with campers. It offers three separate camping sites that will fit any need. This includes full-service hookups, electric only sites, walk-in tent sites, group cabins, and small cottages. Mohican State Park also has a commissary and shop where you can buy limited supplies.
Activities at Mohican State Park
The park is located right on the banks of Clear Fork of the Mohican River. So it’s a popular site for water sports enthusiasts. Anglers love the region because of the abundance of fish including smallmouth bass, carp, and bluegill. If you’re into paddling your way down a lazy river, kayakers and canoers can’t go wrong here.
For hikers, there are plenty of trails for you too. Mohican State Park is especially great for people who are new to hiking and families because many trails are relatively short. Experienced hikers will enjoy it as well because there are a handful of difficult trails (with waterfalls) to explore. There are six marked trails, ranging from 3/4 of a mile to two miles in length.
There are also a couple of trails for both mountain bikers and horse riders. Mountain bikers will find a number of trails. Two trails also accommodate hikers who are looking for more long distance routes. One of these trails, which is 24.5 miles long and also loops through Mohican Memorial State Forest, The Mountain Bike Trail was named as a ‘must ride’ trail by ‘National Geographic Explorer Magazine
Those looking for bridle trails won’t be disappointed either. Mohican State Park offers riders three bridle trails, one of which also serves as a snowmobile trail in the winter.
Endurance Events
While most people explore Mohican State Park for a relaxing summer weekend, this area is also home to two very popular endurance events.
The first is the Mohican MTB 100 which is a 100 mile mountain bike race that’s held in the park every June. For runners, there is the Mohican 100 mile, 50 Mile, and Marathon Trail Run, also held in June. This is a premiere race for ultra marathoners, and many former (and future) Olympians have participated in the event.
Mohican State Park is just another example of an amazing state park that has plenty to offer for everyone. If you live in the area, be sure to check it out.
