Best Dispersed Camping near Granville, OH
Camping options near Granville, Ohio primarily center around the Wayne National Forest area, located approximately 60 miles southeast of the city. The forest hosts several dispersed camping areas including Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail, a popular backpacking destination with primitive campsites along established trails. Monday Creek OHV area offers drive-in tent camping with basic amenities like vault toilets and trash collection. Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead provides both tent and limited RV camping opportunities with similar primitive facilities. These areas represent the rustic, undeveloped camping style predominant in the region, with most sites featuring simple fire rings and cleared tent pads rather than developed facilities.
Trail and site conditions vary significantly with seasonal changes, particularly at Wildcat Hollow where muddy trails are frequently reported after rainfall. According to camper Steve C., "The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys." Cell service is spotty throughout the region, generally available on ridges but unreliable in valleys. Water sources should not be trusted for filtration at Wildcat Hollow due to nearby oil drilling operations, making it essential for campers to pack in all necessary water. Most trailhead areas have vault toilets that may close seasonally, with winter access limited at several locations. Weekend crowding is common during peak season (April-October), particularly at trailhead camping areas.
Campers consistently highlight the secluded nature of these areas as their primary appeal. "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," notes Ruby W. Spring visitors particularly appreciate the wildflower displays, with Lucille W. recommending spring visits when "the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers." The region offers both shorter day-use loops and longer backpacking options, with Wildcat Hollow featuring both 5-mile and 15-mile loop trails with established campsites every few miles. First-time backpackers often find these trails accessible yet satisfying, though prepared for limited amenities and pack-in/pack-out requirements.