Best Dispersed Camping near Dillon Lake
Dispersed camping options near Dillon Lake, Ohio include several primitive sites within Wayne National Forest. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers free camping with established trails and remote campsites. The area features a 5-mile loop and a longer 15-mile loop with campsites spaced every few miles. According to reviews, "Wildcat Hollow is a fantastic free camping and backpacking location with well-established trails and a variety of remote campsites." Most sites are first-come, first-served with basic stone fire rings in semi-cleared areas.
Pack in all necessary water as stream water is not recommended for filtering. Several campers noted signs at trailheads advising against using local water sources due to active oil drilling in the area. The trails become extremely muddy after rainfall, particularly between trailheads and loops, making hiking difficult in wet conditions. Basic amenities include pit toilets at trailheads, but no drinking water or other facilities. Cell service exists on ridges but expect dead zones in valleys and at some trailheads.
Monday Creek OHV Dispersed and Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead provide additional camping options with drive-in access. These areas have vault toilets and trash receptacles but remain primitive. Campers report these sites can become crowded on weekends during peak season (April-December), particularly with off-highway vehicle users. Small, open fires are permitted except during high fire danger periods, with existing fire rings to be used when available. All sites require proper waste disposal through pack-in, pack-out practices. Pets are allowed but must be kept on a 6-foot leash. Spring visitors may encounter abundant wildflowers carpeting the forest floor, adding seasonal interest to the hiking experience.
