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Best Dispersed Camping near Carroll, OH

13 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Carroll, Ohio centers primarily on Wayne National Forest lands, with several primitive areas located within 30-45 minutes of town. The forest offers multiple access points for no-fee camping, particularly along trails and trailheads in the Monday Creek and Wildcat Hollow areas. These sites are distributed across forest service land, providing primitive options for those seeking backcountry experiences without developed facilities or reservations.

Many dispersed sites require travel on unpaved forest roads, with conditions varying significantly based on recent weather and season. Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area features drive-in tent sites with basic amenities including vault toilets and trash receptacles, though no water is available. Wildcat Hollow provides hike-in only camping with established sites along both shorter (5-mile) and longer (15-mile) trail loops. Trail conditions can become extremely muddy after rainfall, particularly in valley sections. "The trail can be a cesspool of mud in too many places especially on the stretch between the trailhead and the loop," noted one visitor. Pack-in water is necessary as streams may be dry or unsafe for filtering.

The primitive camping experience near Carroll ranges from easily accessible trailhead sites to more remote backcountry locations. Wildcat Hollow's trail system supports multiple established campsites with stone fire rings spaced every few miles. A visitor described it as "a great area for backpacking as camping is free and allowed anywhere along the trail." Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead provides more accessible options but experiences higher weekend usage during peak seasons. "Saturday was super busy, and we snagged the last available spot with a fire ring," reported one camper. Monday Creek OHV area can be busy with off-highway vehicle users during the April-December permitted season but offers quieter camping during winter months. Most sites contain minimal amenities beyond cleared areas and occasional fire rings, requiring self-sufficient camping practices.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Carroll, Ohio (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Carroll, OH

3 Photos of 7 Carroll Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Carroll, OH

13 Reviews of 7 Carroll 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.

  • 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.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 8, 2020

    Witch’s Peak

    Sweet spot

    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.

  • 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.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Amazing spring wildflowers

    I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. 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. BUT I have also camped here and no one else was around. There is a restroom and garage can at the trail head. The trail has a smaller loop and a larger loop. Both are fairly easy hikes. I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers.

Guide to Carroll

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Carroll, Ohio, where nature lovers can enjoy a more rustic and secluded outdoor experience. With various locations offering unique features, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Carroll, Ohio

  • Make sure to check out the Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, which allows campfires and welcomes pets, making it a great choice for families and friends looking to enjoy a night under the stars.
  • If you're planning to camp during the busy season, arrive early at the Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area, as it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions; many spots, like the Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, do not offer amenities, so pack in everything you need and pack out your trash.

Dispersed campers should check out Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead

  • The Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead is a drive-in location that provides easy access for those looking to set up camp without a long hike.
  • This area is perfect for those who enjoy hiking, as it offers trails that can be explored year-round, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • With no permit required, you can enjoy a spontaneous camping trip without the hassle of reservations.

Enjoy hiking and nature while free camping near Carroll

  • The Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed is known for its scenic trails and beautiful wildflowers in the spring, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.
  • For those seeking a challenge, the Witch’s Peak offers steep trails that reward hikers with stunning views and unique rock formations at the summit.
  • Many dispersed camping areas, like the Stone Church Trailhead, provide a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of the forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Carroll, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Carroll, OH is Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed with a 3.9-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Carroll, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Carroll, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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