Dispersed camping opportunities around Caldwell, Ohio primarily concentrate within Wayne National Forest. This mixed hardwood forest covers over 244,000 acres across southeastern Ohio with elevation changes from 650 to 1,100 feet. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and mild winters with occasional snow, making camping accessible year-round though conditions vary significantly by season.
What to do
Hike interconnected trail systems: At Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, campers can access both a 5-mile and 15-mile loop with numerous primitive sites along the way. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," notes one regular visitor.
Explore rock formations: Free camping near Witch's Peak provides access to 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," reports one hiker.
Off-highway vehicle recreation: The Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area offers extensive trail networks specifically designed for off-road vehicles. "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening. We slept soundly, made breakfast and were on our way. Great stop over location," shares one camper who appreciated the convenient access.
What campers like
Solitude and seclusion: Many campers value the remote nature of dispersed camping in Wayne National Forest. "I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," writes a reviewer about Wildcat Hollow.
Established fire rings: At Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, fire rings are coveted amenities. "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," explains a camper who visited during a busy weekend.
Vault toilets at trailheads: Basic facilities at main access points provide minimal but appreciated amenities. "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," notes a visitor to Kinderhook Horse Trail.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Surface water throughout the region may be unsafe for filtering. One camper at Kinderhook Horse Trail reports, "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."
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Many trails become extremely muddy after rainfall. "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," cautions a Wildcat Hollow visitor.
Limited services in winter: Seasonal closures affect available facilities. "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter," reports a winter visitor to Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible trailhead sites: For families with young children, camping near trailheads offers easier access. "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," shares a visitor to Wildcat Hollow.
Arrive early on weekends: Popular sites fill quickly, especially those with established amenities. "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. BUT I have also camped here and no one else was around," notes a regular visitor.
Consider weekday visits: Midweek camping offers significantly less crowding at popular sites. At New Straitsville Trailhead, a camper observed: "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)."
Tips from RVers
Small rigs only: Most dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. "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," advises a visitor to Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Be self-sufficient: No hookups or services exist at any dispersed sites. "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," clarifies a Wildcat Hollow visitor.
