Dispersed camping near Creola, Ohio centers around Wayne National Forest, where multiple primitive sites dot the Athens Ranger District. The forest's rolling terrain ranges from 650 to 1,250 feet elevation, with steep ridges and narrow valleys creating secluded camping pockets. Seasonal hunting activities affect camping popularity, with spring and fall seeing increased traffic from hunters accessing remote forest areas.
What to do
Trail exploration: The Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers both a 5-mile and 15-mile loop with numerous camping opportunities. "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," notes Steve C. Spring visitors particularly enjoy the seasonal wildflowers that carpet the forest floor.
Rock climbing: Witch's Peak provides access to rock formations suitable for bouldering and climbing. The site requires a steep hike but rewards visitors with unique geological features. "The climb is totally worth it though. Some amazing rock out croppings and views up there! There are several boulder routes as well," reports Lucille W.
Seasonal OHV riding: The Athens District trail system closes seasonally but offers extensive riding opportunities. "OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season," reports Doug H. about winter conditions at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
What campers like
Established fire rings: At Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, campers appreciate the basic 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. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead," explains Taylor P.
Cell service availability: Despite the remote location, some areas offer connectivity. "Cell service was available, but not great," reports Taylor P. about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead. Similarly, at Wildcat Hollow, Steve C. notes, "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."
Abundant solitude: Weekday camping typically offers more seclusion. "We arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," reports Kevin C. about a Monday Creek OHV site. For more secluded experiences, Wildcat Hollow provides ample options deeper into the trail system.
What you should know
Trail conditions: Mud represents a significant challenge in Wayne National Forest. At Wildcat Hollow, Shane notes, "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits." Another camper advises against using local water sources, stating, "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."
Trailhead logistics: Monday Creek OHV Dispersed serves both campers and off-road enthusiasts, creating variable noise levels. "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," reports Kevin C., though he adds, "We slept soundly, made breakfast and were on our way."
Access limitations: Forest roads degrade significantly after rainfall. Forest Service trailheads like New Straitsville maintain seasonal schedules for facilities, with one camper noting it's "Really just parking for an OHV trail... I could see it being more congested between April-December (OHV permitted season)."
Tips for camping with families
Shorter trail options: For families with younger children, the smaller loops provide manageable hiking distances. "Wildcat Hollow is a fantastic free camping and backpacking location... Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," suggests Ruby W. The shorter 5-mile loop offers multiple established campsites suitable for children.
Plan for primitive conditions: No potable water exists at these sites, requiring comprehensive packing. "There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot. This is pack in/pack out," explains Jade G. about Wildcat Hollow facilities.
Consider seasonal timing: Spring offers wildflower viewing while fall provides colorful foliage. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," advises Lucille W.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead overnight parking: The Sand Hill Trailhead offers limited options for vehicle camping. "We found the Sand Hill Trail head and pitched camp not too far from where we parked," reports Marisa A., though she cautions about navigation challenges: "Wayne National Forest is a maze of public and private land."
RV accessibility challenges: Most dispersed sites lack facilities for larger vehicles. One camper reports using Wildcat Hollow parking for an overnight: "Parked our RRT in the parking lot on a Monday evening and had the place pretty much all to ourselves all night."
Forest boundary navigation: RV campers should obtain official Forest Service maps before arrival. "Next time I will purchase a paper map before I go because Wayne National Forest has alot of private lands interspersed and it is not all that clear without an official map," advises Marisa A.
