Dispersed camping near Marietta, Ohio centers around Wayne National Forest, covering over 244,000 acres across southeastern Ohio. The forest offers primitive camping opportunities throughout its three non-contiguous units—Athens, Marietta, and Ironton—with most sites situated along forest service roads at elevations ranging from 650 to 1,050 feet. Winter camping remains available at select locations when OHV trails close seasonally, though access roads can become difficult without four-wheel drive after heavy precipitation.
What to do
Hiking beyond the crowds: The Wildcat Hollow trail system provides both novice and experienced hikers options with 5-mile and 15-mile loop trails. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," notes a Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed visitor.
Rock climbing access: Several primitive sites serve as base camps for local climbing areas. "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," reports a camper at Witch's Peak.
Seasonal OHV trails: The Monday Creek OHV system offers 75+ miles of trails open April through December. A visitor observed the area can get busy: "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
What campers like
Secluded backpacking: Primitive sites along the trails offer isolation rarely found in Ohio. "It was a beautiful, quiet place and I only saw 2 other people in the trail while I was hiking out the second day," reports one Wildcat Hollow camper.
Accessible primitive camping: For those wanting a wilderness experience without a long hike, some trailheads offer immediate camping options. "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," notes a visitor.
Off-season solitude: Winter camping provides quieter experiences at normally busy locations. "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season," explains a camper at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Most dispersed sites lack reliable water sources. "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," cautions a Wildcat Hollow camper.
Mud challenges: Trail conditions deteriorate quickly after rain. "Beware the mud! If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits," warns a hiker.
Site security considerations: Some trailhead camping areas experience unusual traffic patterns. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, a camper reported: "The site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit. I've had two cars drive in after sunset who have just sat around for a bit then left."
Tips for camping with families
Trailhead proximity: Choose sites closest to parking areas when camping with children. "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," mentions a Wildcat Hollow visitor with family.
Facilities planning: Not all trailheads maintain year-round facilities. "Pit toilet closed for winter," notes a Dorr-Run camper, so prepare accordingly with portable toilet options when traveling with kids.
Educational opportunities: Wayne National Forest offers Junior Ranger programs at ranger stations. "Nice place for a first time backpacking trek," suggests a New Straitsville Trailhead visitor, where interpretive signs explain the region's coal mining history.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas accommodate smaller rigs only. "Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," advises a Kinderhook Horse Trail reviewer regarding site constraints.
Weekend planning: Arrive early on peak days to secure spots. "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," shares a camper at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Alternative parking: Look beyond designated camping areas when sites fill up. "There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well," suggests an experienced camper.
