Wayne National Forest provides several dispersed camping options within a 30-mile radius of Cumberland, Ohio. The forest encompasses over 244,000 acres of public land with varying terrain features including steep ridges, narrow valleys, and dense hardwood forests. Elevations range from 650 to 1,250 feet throughout the area. Most dispersed sites remain open year-round, though seasonal closures affect certain trails and facilities.
What to do
Hiking diverse trail systems: Beyond the muddy conditions often reported at Wildcat Hollow, Wayne National Forest offers additional trail options with varying difficulty levels. "The Paw Paw trail was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," notes Annika E. about the Kinderhook Horse Trail area.
Bouldering and rock climbing: The steep hike to Witch's Peak rewards climbers with natural features. According to Lucille W., "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!"
Seasonal wildflower viewing: Spring brings spectacular displays throughout the forest. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," reports Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Timing your visit can significantly affect your experience. Chris B. notes about Wildcat Hollow: "Parked our RRT in the parking lot on a Monday evening and had the place pretty much all to ourselves all night."
Established camping areas: The Monday Creek OHV area provides defined spaces for overnight stays. Kevin C. reports about Monday Creek OHV Dispersed: "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty."
Loop trail options: Different trail configurations allow for varied backpacking experiences. Steve C. describes Wildcat Hollow: "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."
What you should know
Water accessibility concerns: Water sources in Wayne National Forest require planning. At Wildcat Hollow, Steve C. cautions: "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."
Variable cell reception: Signal strength fluctuates dramatically throughout the forest. Tyler O. reports at Kinderhook Horse Trail: "Verizon signal - 1/2 bars, ATT signal - 2/3 bars." 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."
Site privacy varies: Some locations experience frequent short-term visitors. At Kinderhook, Jack H. warns: "I've had two cars drive in after sunset who have just sat around for a bit then left. I would not recommend this site if you are traveling solo."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead offers accessible entry points for family overnight trips. Taylor P. shares: "There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead. There were restrooms and several fire rings."
Prepare for insects: Dense forest areas host significant bug populations. Harley G. warns about Kinderhook Horse Trail: "There was a lot of bees, yellow jackets."
Emergency supplies planning: Limited access to stores requires advance preparation. Tyler O. notes about Kinderhook: "Gas stations, fast food, and Dollar General are all within 10 mins," which can be crucial information for families needing last-minute supplies.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal access limitations: Winter conditions affect site availability for larger vehicles. Doug H. reports about Dorr-Run: "Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter."
Trailhead parking for small RVs: Several locations accommodate compact campers. Mic B. notes about New Straitsville Trailhead: "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)."
Limited space for larger vehicles: Joe B. cautions about Kinderhook: "Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group. Does have a small hand pump water spigot. Has no flush vault toilet. No hook-ups of any kind."
