Dispersed camping sites in Wayne National Forest provide free camping near Chauncey, Ohio for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest encompasses over 244,000 acres across southeastern Ohio with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,250 feet. Seasonal access varies significantly, with many primitive sites accessible year-round but some OHV-area camping locations closed during winter months from December through March.
What to do
Explore rock formations: Witch's Peak offers unique geological features accessible via a challenging hike. "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!" according to Lucille W. at Witch's Peak.
Enjoy seasonal wildflower viewing: Spring transforms the forest floor with native Ohio wildflowers. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," notes Lucille W. from Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail.
Tackle hiking loops: Backpackers can choose between shorter and longer routes. "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 Steve C., who found most sites offer basic stone fire rings and cleared tent areas.
What campers like
Secluded weekday camping: Visitor traffic varies dramatically between weekends and weekdays. "I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," reports one camper who notes both crowded and empty conditions depending on timing.
Convenient overnight stops: Monday Creek OHV Dispersed serves as a practical stopover location. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty... Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," shares Kevin C.
Ridgetop cell service: Connectivity varies by elevation throughout the forest. "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," explains a camper who noted the practical communication differences based on topography.
What you should know
Water safety concerns: Surface water in the area is generally not recommended for 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," warns Steve C.
Seasonal trail conditions: Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead camping changes significantly with seasons. "OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter," reports Doug H., who still rated it positively despite limited winter access.
Weekend congestion: Popular sites fill quickly on Fridays and Saturdays. "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 Taylor P., highlighting the dramatic difference between weekend nights and weekdays.
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly loops: Some trails are particularly suitable for novice backpackers. "Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek... The trail has a smaller loop and a larger loop. Both are fairly easy hikes," suggests a regular visitor to the area.
Early arrival recommended: Secure campsites by reaching trailheads well before evening. "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," advises Shane from Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Potable water access: "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road... Does have a small hand pump water spigot. Has no flush vault toilet," reports Joe B., noting one of the few locations offering non-stream water access in the area.
Tips from RVers
Small RV accessibility: Most dispersed sites accommodate only compact camping setups. "Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," warns Joe B. about space limitations at certain trailheads.
Overnight parking options: "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 Chris B. about an impromptu overnight stay at a trailhead parking area.
Limited hookup options: Free camping near Chauncey provides no traditional RV amenities. "This is pack in/pack out," notes Jade G., emphasizing the primitive nature of Wayne National Forest camping that requires complete self-sufficiency for all camping needs.
