Rustic camping near Parkersburg, West Virginia concentrates primarily in Ohio's Wayne National Forest, where campers access terrain ranging from 600 to 1,000 feet elevation. The forest's three non-contiguous units encompass over 240,000 acres of mixed hardwood forest with dispersed camping options typically available year-round, though mud conditions significantly impact accessibility during winter and spring thaws. Most sites require travel on unpaved forest roads that deteriorate rapidly in wet conditions.
What to do
Trail exploration: The Witch's Peak area offers challenging hiking with significant elevation change. "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," notes one visitor. The rock shelter at trail's end provides a natural landmark destination.
Seasonal wildflower viewing: Spring transforms the forest floor at Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed into a botanical showcase. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," advises a regular camper. Peak viewing typically occurs from mid-April through early May.
Off-highway vehicle recreation: From April through December, the Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area becomes a hub for motorized recreation. "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," reports one camper. The network includes over 75 miles of designated OHV trails with varying difficulty levels.
What campers like
Seclusion opportunities: More remote campsites reward those willing to hike farther into the forest. "Wildcat Hollow is a fantastic free camping and backpacking location. It's quite secluded, has well established trails, and has a variety of remote campsites to choose from," one backpacker shares.
Basic amenities at select locations: Some trailheads provide minimal but appreciated facilities. "Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," notes a camper at Monday Creek. Most developed sites include vault toilets that remain accessible year-round, though winter closures affect some locations.
Off-season solitude: Winter camping offers significantly reduced traffic. "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season," reports a visitor at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, highlighting the trade-off between accessibility and privacy.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically by location and elevation. "There is cell service when you're up in the ridges but there are a lot of dead zones in the valleys and even at the trailhead," warns a Wildcat Hollow visitor.
Water safety concerns: Surface water throughout the region requires treatment and may not be suitable for consumption even with filtration. "While 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.
Site competition: During peak seasons, early arrival is essential. "Saturday was super busy, and we snagged the last available spot with a fire ring. The second night we only had one tent near us," notes a camper at Dorr-Run. Popular sites typically fill by mid-afternoon on weekends from May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner backpacking option: Kinderhook Horse Trail provides an accessible introduction to primitive camping. "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Can camp here in certain spots. Not much area to camp. No fire rings, one picnic table. Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," explains one visitor.
Water logistics planning: No reliable potable water exists at most sites. "There is a small hand pump water spigot," notes a Kinderhook visitor, but most locations require bringing all water needs. A family of four typically needs at least 2 gallons per day for drinking and cooking.
Trail difficulty assessment: Match trail selections to children's abilities. "The Paw Paw trail on the other hand was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," reports a camper at Kinderhook, identifying a more manageable option for younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed areas accommodate only smaller recreational vehicles. "Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek. I will note I have seen this site crowded before. The parking lot can be full of cars and a lot of the obvious/easy campsites along the trail can be taken," observes a regular at Wildcat Hollow.
Winter access issues: Off-season camping brings specific challenges for vehicles. "Overall not a bad spot for a one night travel spot but I could see it being more congested between April-December (OHV permitted season)," notes a visitor at New Straitsville Trailhead, highlighting the seasonal trade-offs between solitude and road conditions.
