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Best Dispersed Camping near Cambridge, OH

17 Reviews

Wayne National Forest provides several dispersed camping areas within driving distance of Cambridge, Ohio. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers primitive campsites along a hiking loop with both 5-mile and 15-mile trail options. Sites consist of basic clearings with stone fire rings scattered along the trail system. The parking area includes vault toilets, but no water sources are available. Reviews note trail conditions can be problematic: "The trail was a cesspool of mud in too many places especially on the stretch between the trailhead and the loop."

Monday Creek OHV Dispersed Camping area permits tent camping with vault toilets and trash receptacles available. This free camping area allows campfires and alcohol, unlike some other local options. The Kinderhook Horse Trail area offers limited camping for small groups with access to vault toilets, a picnic table, and a hand-pump water spigot, though reviews indicate the water quality may be questionable. According to one visitor, "People coming and going every 15 minutes. Some folks pull in, stare at you for a few seconds, then leave," suggesting limited privacy. New Straitsville and Stone Church trailheads provide additional options with varying facilities, though neither offers drinking water.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cambridge, Ohio (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cambridge, OH

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cambridge, OH

17 Reviews of 5 Cambridge Campgrounds

  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Great Secluded Location

    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. There is a small shelter with bathrooms and other amenities, but not much else.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 27, 2024

    Kinderhook Horse Trail

    Nice small trailhead area

    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. Nice trails. Seem to be well maintained. Does have a small hand pump water spigot. Has no flush vault toilet. No hook-ups of any kind. I did not camp here due to severe weather warnings. With att had 2 to 3 bars cell service.

  • Steve C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Awesome packbacking spot

    Great spot for walk in or hike in camping! 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. The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping. The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys. 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 (the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars) 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. 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.

  • E
    Jul. 1, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    The trail horribly muddy

    The campsites looked OK. Dry. No water available to filter.  Cautioned against using the water. But the trail was a cesspool of mud in too many places esp on the stetch between the trailhead and the loop.  I turned around. The trail needs to be planked, elevated or rerouted. This is on July 1. The seasonal creek beds all dry, but the muddy trail is awful especially in comparison to the hype that I read

  • J
    Nov. 1, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Very wet in the spring, but a challenging backpacking loop

    This campground is nice.  They are all designated campsites but they are first-come-first serve. They are hike-to only.  

    It is great for hiking and backpacking camping but if you are looking for car style camping, this is not it.

    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.  

    The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping).

    There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot.

    This is pack in/pack out.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Backpacking haven

    This is part of the Wayne National Forest and a section of the Buckeye Trail. It is a great area for backpacking as camping is free and allowed anywhere along the trail, see the web site for limitations. "Small, open fires are permitted except during extremely high fire danger. Fire rings should be used when available. Make sure all campfires are extinguished before vacating the campsite."~Wayne National web site. Water can be difficult, there are streams but you should pack in any that you need. I took my daughters on a backpacking trip here in August 2016. It is a great area, but there were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent. Pets are allowed but must be on a 6 foot leash. Many other hiking, camping and other outdoor activities are close by.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/wayne/recarea/?recid=6228

  • Chris B.
    Jun. 16, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Wonderful overnight spot.

    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.  Clean pit toilet. Nice trails to walk. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year.

  • Annika E.
    May. 28, 2024

    Kinderhook Horse Trail

    Flat tentspots

    Parking for regular cars is 100 yards before restroom (the others are for horse trailers only). Close to the restroom there’s a picnic table, tentspots and a manual water pump. A lot of insects, humid and dense deciduous forest surrounding the trailhead. The Kinderhook trail was overgrown. The Paw Paw trail on the other hand was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill.

  • S
    Aug. 14, 2022

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Beware the mud!

    If you're just looking for a quick campsite then pull up to the trailhead and you can find several within the first mile of the trail. Otherwise, the good sites are miles in and will necessitate doing the entire loop. If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits.

Guide to Cambridge

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cambridge, Ohio, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, there's something for everyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Dispersed campers should check out Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

  • Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed is perfect for those who enjoy hiking in and camping, with several sites available along the trail.
  • Be prepared for muddy conditions, especially in the spring, as the trail can become quite wet after rain. Many campers recommend bringing sturdy footwear for the hike.
  • The sites are primitive, featuring only semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a true back-to-nature experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Cambridge, Ohio

  • If you're looking for a more accessible option, consider the Kinderhook Horse Trail, which offers drive-in access and is suitable for small campers or tents.
  • This area features a clean restroom and a manual water pump, but be aware that there are no fire rings, so plan accordingly for cooking and warmth.
  • The surrounding trails are well-maintained, providing a great opportunity for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna.

Monday Creek OHV Dispersed: A great spot for off-road enthusiasts

  • For those who enjoy off-roading, Monday Creek OHV Dispersed offers a unique camping experience with easy access to various trails.
  • The area is known for its primitive camping style, allowing you to truly disconnect from modern amenities while still having access to basic facilities like vaulted toilets.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, as many campers and off-roaders frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping allowed near Cambridge, Wisconsin?

Dispersed camping is available near Cambridge at several locations in the surrounding area. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers free camping with established sites along hiking trails. This area is located within Wayne National Forest and allows camping anywhere along the trail with certain limitations. The area has both short 5-mile loops and longer 15-mile options with campsites spaced every few miles, making it ideal for backpackers seeking dispersed camping opportunities.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Cambridge?

Dispersed camping sites near Cambridge offer minimal amenities, keeping with their rustic nature. Stone Church Trailhead provides drive-in access, while some areas like Kinderhook have basic facilities including pit toilets, picnic tables, and manual water pumps. Most dispersed sites have no potable water, electricity, or shower facilities. Some established sites include primitive fire rings, but many areas require campers to bring all necessary supplies. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent. These locations emphasize a true wilderness experience where self-sufficiency is essential.

What are the rules for dispersed camping in Cambridge?

When dispersed camping near Cambridge, follow these important regulations: camp only in designated areas or established sites; small, open fires are permitted except during high fire danger periods; use existing fire rings when possible; practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash; and respect wildlife and natural surroundings. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, camping is restricted to specific areas with limited space suitable only for small campers, car camping, or tents. Most dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early during peak seasons.

Is there free camping available in Cambridge during winter months?

Free winter camping is available near Cambridge, though accessibility may be challenging depending on weather conditions. Monday Creek OHV Dispersed and New Straitsville Trailhead offer year-round dispersed camping options. Winter campers should prepare for muddy conditions after rain or snow melt, especially on trails and access roads. No winter-specific amenities like heated facilities are available at these free sites, so bring appropriate cold-weather gear. Always check local weather forecasts and forest service announcements before winter camping trips as severe conditions may temporarily limit access.

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