Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers no-cost dispersed camping opportunities in the Wayne National Forest, located within 40 miles of Coshocton, Ohio. This regrowth forest area sits at elevations between 700-900 feet and features mixed hardwood forest with seasonal changes. The trail system connects to the larger Buckeye Trail network and includes established campsites positioned along both the short and extended loop options.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forest floor becomes particularly vibrant with wildflowers during spring months. "I recommend visiting Wildcat Hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," notes a regular visitor to Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Overnight backpacking options: The trail system provides both beginner and more advanced hiking routes. "Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek. There is a smaller loop and a larger loop. Both are fairly easy hikes," explains one camper who frequents the area.
Solitude seeking: For those wanting genuine seclusion, continue deeper into the trail network. "The land is all regrowth forest and the further you go, the less you see of people - a novelty in this part of the world," reports a backpacker who visited Stone Church Trailhead area.
What campers like
Multiple camping location options: Campsites can be found at various points along the trail system. "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."
Trailhead amenities: The parking area provides basic services for day hikers and overnight users. "Clean pit toilet. Nice trails to walk," mentions a reviewer who parked an RV overnight at the trailhead area of Wildcat Hollow.
Seasonal variations: Different times of year offer distinct experiences. "I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail," says one regular visitor who appreciates the changing seasons at the campground.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: There are no reliable potable water sources on site. "The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping. While there is water in the valleys I wouldn't use it even with a filter," advises a backpacker at Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Mud conditions: Trail quality varies significantly based on recent weather. "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. If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits," cautions one hiker.
Site occupancy fluctuations: Weekend traffic can impact solitude, particularly at easily accessible sites. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: The shorter loop provides an accessible introduction to overnight hiking. "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."
Pack-in necessities: No services are available beyond the trailhead. "This is pack in/pack out," reminds a visitor who frequently uses the free camping near Coshocton, Ohio.
Site selection strategy: For drive-up camping with children, consider the first available sites. "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," reports a family who enjoyed no-cost camping at Wildcat Hollow.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead overnight parking: The parking area can accommodate smaller recreational vehicles. "Parked our RRT in the parking lot on a Monday evening and had the place pretty much all to ourselves all night," shares an RVer who used the free camping area near Coshocton for a quick overnight.
Access road conditions: Vehicle approach routes may present challenges. "The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping)," notes a visitor who accessed the trailhead with a vehicle.
Limited facilities: No hookups or dump stations exist on site. "There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot," reminds a camper who stayed at the trailhead area, emphasizing the primitive nature of this free camping destination.
