Dispersed camping near Adelphi, Ohio primarily consists of rustic sites in the Wayne National Forest with minimal amenities and facilities. Most locations require self-sufficiency with pack-in/pack-out garbage policies. The region features several trailheads serving both OHV enthusiasts and hikers on predominantly clay-based trails that drain poorly. Camping options range from parking lot pull-offs to secluded forest sites located along hiking paths of varying difficulties.
What to do
Explore boulder formations: Witch's Peak requires a challenging hike but rewards visitors with unique geological features. "The trail in is super steep. The climb is totally worth it though. Some amazing rock out croppings and views up there! There are several boulder routes as well. At the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter! A very neat local treasure," notes Lucille W..
Enjoy wildlife viewing: Early morning and late evening offer the best opportunities to spot native wildlife. The forested terrain houses deer, wild turkey, and numerous bird species. Wildcat Hollow trails are particularly known for spring flora. "I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," shares one regular visitor at Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Navigate multiple trail systems: The area features interconnected trail networks with varying difficulties. "The trail is challenging terrain, especially when backpacking. It can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that," advises a hiker about trail conditions. Most trails remain open year-round though seasonal closures affect some activities.
What campers like
Solitude and seclusion: Many sites offer genuine isolation, especially on weekdays. "Overall, it was a beautiful, quiet place and I only saw 2 other people in the trail while I was hiking out the second day," reports one camper who visited mid-week. Cell service is spotty, particularly in valleys, enhancing the disconnected experience.
Flexibility of camping options: Campsites range from drive-up spots to remote backpacking locations. "There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail. There is a 5 mile loop or a longer ~15 mile loop that you can hike and there are campsites every couple of miles," explains a camper at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
Established fire rings: Most designated sites feature stone fire rings. "We snagged the last available spot with a fire ring. The second night we only had one tent near us. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well," notes a visitor to Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Surface water sources are generally unreliable and potentially unsafe. "There is water in the valleys I wouldn't use it even with a filter. There are signs posted at the trailhead that advise against it plus there is still active oil drilling in one of the hollows," cautions a backpacker.
Trail conditions vary significantly: Clay-based soil creates persistently muddy sections after rain. "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits," warns one hiker. Another mentions, "The campsites looked OK. Dry. No water available to filter. But the trail was a cesspool of mud in too many places especially on the stretch between the trailhead and the loop."
Limited facilities: Most locations provide minimal amenities. At Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, "There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot. This is pack in/pack out," explains a reviewer. Trailheads typically offer the only toilet facilities, many of which close during winter.
Tips for camping with families
Begin with shorter loops: For families with younger children, start with the shorter trail options. "The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping," describes one visitor. The 5-mile loop at Wildcat Hollow provides accessible camping without extended hiking.
Pack extra footwear: Muddy trails require backup shoes, especially for children. Multiple reviewers emphasize trail conditions as the primary challenge. One notes, "The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping)," suggesting sturdy vehicles for accessing trailheads with children.
Use trailhead campsites: Several locations offer camping near parking areas, ideal for families new to primitive camping. "Just wanted an overnight spot to clear our heads and enjoy the outdoors. Parked our RRT in the parking lot on a Monday evening and had the place pretty much all to ourselves all night," shares a visitor about an accessible New Straitsville Trailhead experience.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead parking accommodates small rigs: Most trailhead areas permit overnight RV parking but with size limitations. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty. Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," reports a camper at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
Weeknight stays recommended: Weekend congestion makes RV parking difficult at popular trailheads. "Saturday was super busy, and we snagged the last available spot with a fire ring," notes one visitor, while another adds, "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Probably busy on weekends during the season."
