Best Dispersed Camping near Glenford, OH

Dispersed camping opportunities near Glenford, Ohio are concentrated within Wayne National Forest, offering several primitive camping options. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail provides free, secluded camping with established trails and multiple remote sites. The area features two hiking loops: a shorter 5-mile option and a longer 15-mile route with campsites positioned every few miles. According to reviews, sites are typically semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings, providing true primitive camping experiences. Monday Creek OHV area and Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead also offer dispersed camping options with basic amenities.

Campers should prepare for variable trail conditions throughout the year. Trails become notably muddy after rainfall, particularly in spring and in valley sections. Several campers noted that mud can make hiking difficult, especially on the stretch between the trailhead and loop trails. Water sources in the area are not recommended for filtering due to potential contamination from nearby oil drilling operations. Pack in all necessary water supplies. Basic facilities at trailheads typically include vault toilets and trash receptacles, though these may close seasonally.

Fire regulations permit small, open fires except during high fire danger periods. Existing fire rings should be used when available, and all fires must be fully extinguished before departing. Pets are allowed but must remain on 6-foot leashes. Cell service varies significantly across the region, with better reception on ridges and limited connectivity in valleys and at some trailheads. Weekends often bring higher visitor numbers, particularly at popular sites like Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, where arriving early is recommended to secure camping spots with fire rings.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Glenford, Ohio (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Glenford, OH

3 Photos of 7 Glenford Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Glenford, OH

13 Reviews of 7 Glenford Campgrounds


  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Great Secluded Location

    Wildcat Hollow is a fantastic free camping and backpacking location. 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.

  • Steve C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Awesome packbacking spot

    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. 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 so it is totally primitive camping. The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys. 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 (the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars) 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. Overall, it was a beautiful, quiet place and I only saw 2 other people in the trail while I was hiking out the second day.

  • E
    Jul. 1, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    The trail horribly muddy

    The campsites looked OK. Dry. No water available to filter.  Cautioned against using the water. But the trail was a cesspool of mud in too many places esp on the stetch between the trailhead and the loop.  I turned around. The trail needs to be planked, elevated or rerouted. This is on July 1. The seasonal creek beds all dry, but the muddy trail is awful especially in comparison to the hype that I read

  • J
    Nov. 1, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Very wet in the spring, but a challenging backpacking loop

    This campground is nice.  They are all designated campsites but they are first-come-first serve. They are hike-to only.  

    It is great for hiking and backpacking camping but if you are looking for car style camping, this is not it.

    The trail is challenging terrain, especially when backpacking.  It can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that.  

    The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping).

    There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot.

    This is pack in/pack out.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Backpacking haven

    This is part of the Wayne National Forest and a section of the Buckeye Trail. It is a great area for backpacking as camping is free and allowed anywhere along the trail, see the web site for limitations. "Small, open fires are permitted except during extremely high fire danger. Fire rings should be used when available. Make sure all campfires are extinguished before vacating the campsite."~Wayne National web site. Water can be difficult, there are streams but you should pack in any that you need. I took my daughters on a backpacking trip here in August 2016. It is a great area, but there were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent. Pets are allowed but must be on a 6 foot leash. Many other hiking, camping and other outdoor activities are close by.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/wayne/recarea/?recid=6228

  • Chris B.
    Jun. 16, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Wonderful overnight spot.

    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.  Clean pit toilet. Nice trails to walk. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 8, 2020

    Witch’s Peak

    Sweet spot

    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. At the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter! A very neat local treasure.

  • S
    Aug. 14, 2022

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Beware the mud!

    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. Otherwise, the good sites are miles in and will necessitate doing the entire loop. If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Amazing spring wildflowers

    I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek. 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. There is a restroom and garage can at the trail head. The trail has a smaller loop and a larger loop. Both are fairly easy hikes. I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers.


Guide to Glenford

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Glenford, Ohio, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to unwind and explore. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure away from the crowds.

Dispersed campers should check out Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

  • Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed is known for its challenging terrain, making it ideal for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding backpacking experience.
  • With several designated campsites along the trail, you can enjoy primitive camping surrounded by nature's beauty.
  • Be prepared for muddy conditions in the spring, as the area can become quite wet after rainfall, adding to the adventure.

Top activities while free camping near Glenford

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic trails at Stone Church Trailhead, which offers a drive-in access point for easy entry into the wilderness.
  • For those who enjoy off-road adventures, Monday Creek OHV Dispersed provides access to various trails, perfect for exploring the rugged terrain.
  • Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are popular activities at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Glenford, Ohio

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep the area pristine, especially at spots like Witch’s Peak, where the natural beauty is a major draw.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, particularly at busy locations like Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead, which can fill up quickly on weekends.
  • Bring your own water and supplies, as many dispersed camping areas, including New Straitsville Trailhead, do not offer amenities like drinking water or firewood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Glenford, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Glenford, OH is Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed with a 3.9-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Glenford, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Glenford, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.