Campground Profile: Mohican Adventures

It was late September and we saw our camping season start to slip away. We had planned to head north to pitch our tent but the weatherman called for rain. We watched the sky for hours. They were clear blue and the birds were chirping. We made the decision to go around 3:00pm and packed up our gear as quickly as we could.

Our destination was Mohican Adventures in Loudonville, OH which is about an 1.5 hours north of Columbus. Forty-five minutes into our drive it started to pour. Big buckets of water fell from the sky making it difficult to drive. We looked at each other, we were halfway there, we couldn’t turn back. It was adventure time.

The following 45 minutes were long and slow on the highway. Our dog was nervous but we were determined. An exit sign promoted a Walmart and we decided to make a pitstop hoping the rain would pass by the time we were done. It didn’t. We could hear the drops as they pounded the metal roof, eventually slowing down but never stopping. We added a couple of extra ponchos to our cart.

The staff at Mohican Adventures welcomed us with open arms. Again, it was September and raining. The place was almost empty. I think they were happy to have the business. We chose a site in the 600s, off of a path called Buzzard’s Roost. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended to access it but we made it in our Ford Fusion with no real problems. We really wanted our privacy.

The rain had slowed to a drizzle but the ground was wet. We laid down a thick tarp and got to work. It took us a while to start and maintain our fire but once we did everything was perfect. The mosquitoes were still hiding and the birds were silent. We sat at the top of a hill, looking over green trees, and admired our work. That night the rain stopped and we ate hot dogs and played Connect 4.

The next morning we were greeted by the warm sunshine. We fried some eggs before a short hike around the property. Later, we stocked our cooler and headed across the street to the canoe livery. After a brief safety video we were on our way.

At normal levels, the Mohican is rated International Class I, meaning it’s suitable for all skill levels. This day was no different despite the rain. We had a smooth ride: drinking, laughing, and paddling.

Lunchtime called and a mouth-watering grill smell answered. We found a food-truck along the side of the river. We were happily stunned and pulled the canoe out of the water at our first opportunity. Burgers, fried mushrooms, and chips were on the menu for us. I don’t know if the truck is a mainstay but keep your eyes peeled. I promise it will be worth it!

Bellies full and arms aching we finished our trip and headed home. It could have been the rain, the company, or the adventure, maybe it was all three that made our trip so magical. Regardless, Mohican will always hold a special place in my heart.

I encourage you to take your own rainy day adventure. Camp, hike, or canoe (if there is no lightning) life is too short to stay inside!