Wayne National Forest offers dispersed primitive camping near Hamden, Ohio across its three units spanning 12 counties. The Athens Unit is closest to Hamden with over 30 miles of interconnected trails weaving through deciduous forest and reclaimed mining land. Winter camping is permitted but with reduced facilities as most pit toilets close during cold months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Wildcat Hollow features two trail loops for varied skill levels. "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.
Rock climbing: Witch's Peak provides natural climbing routes. "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," says Lucille W.
Fishing: Multiple small ponds and lakes throughout the forest offer fishing opportunities. At Hanging Rock Recreation Site, one visitor mentions, "I found a spot quickly and had 2 entire ponds to myself... Awesome morning sunrise!"
What campers like
Wildflower viewing: Spring brings spectacular blooms throughout the forest. "I recommend visiting Wildcat Hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," shares Lucille W.
Beginner backpacking: The shorter trails offer accessible experiences for novices. "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."
Solitude options: Most primitive sites offer privacy during weekdays. "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," reports Steve C. about Wildcat Hollow.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many facilities shut down during winter. "OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter," reports Doug H. about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Trail conditions: Lower elevations can become extremely wet. "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."
Water sources: Despite streams and ponds, water quality is questionable. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Start with trailhead sites: For families, campsites near parking areas offer easier access. "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," notes Chris B.
Weekday visits: School-aged children will encounter fewer crowds during weekdays. "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."
Look for established sites: Seek cleared areas for tent setup. "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."
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking: Some trailheads accommodate RVs for basic overnight stays. "We stayed in the parking lot as it was getting dark and didn't know if there were any place to turn our rv around. Very quiet night and were visited by fireflies which was awesome," reports Jay S. about Hanging Rock Recreation Area.
Limited hookups: All dispersed sites lack electric, water, and sewer connections. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty. Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," notes Kevin C. about Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
Tight spaces: Many forest roads have limited turn-around areas. "Really just parking for an OHV trail. 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)."
