Dispersed camping near Kingston, Ohio centers primarily around Wayne National Forest, where campers find secluded sites without reservations required. The forest encompasses over 244,000 acres across southeastern Ohio, with numerous unofficial campsites accessible via forest roads and trails. Seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility, with many locations becoming difficult to reach during wet periods when forest roads deteriorate.
What to do
Hiking at Wildcat Hollow Trail: The trail system offers both 5-mile and 15-mile loop options through regenerated forest. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," notes camper Lucille W. at Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Rock climbing at Witch's Peak: Access requires navigating a challenging approach trail. "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 visitor to Witch's Peak.
Off-highway vehicle trails: The Monday Creek OHV trail system provides extensive riding opportunities from April through December. Trails close during winter months, but camping remains available. "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.
What campers like
Genuine backcountry solitude: Many sites offer true seclusion, particularly deeper on the trails. "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," explains Ruby W. about her experience at Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Established fire rings: Most primitive sites include stone fire rings in cleared areas. "There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail. The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping," describes Steve C.
Flexibility for short or long stays: Sites work for overnight stops or extended backpacking. "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," reports Chris B.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Surface water sources exist but may be unreliable or unsafe. "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," warns a camper at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
Muddy trail conditions: Trails become extremely muddy after rainfall and dry slowly. "The trail can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that," advises Jade G. Another visitor reports, "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits."
Variable cell service: Connectivity depends entirely on location within the forest. "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," notes a visitor. Reception becomes particularly unreliable in valley areas.
Tips for camping with families
Choose trailhead camping for convenience: Sites near trailheads provide easier access with children. "Stayed here for two nights. Saturday was super busy, and we snagged the last available spot with a fire ring. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well," reports Taylor P. at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Scout camp spots before dark: Competition for prime sites increases on weekends. "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," advises Shane.
Consider seasonal limitations: Some facilities close 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.
Tips from RVers
Limited options for larger vehicles: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "Great spot for a one night travel spot but I could see it being more congested between April-December (OHV permitted season)," notes Mic B. at New Straitsville Trailhead.
Pack out all waste: No sanitary dump facilities exist in the dispersed areas. "This is pack in/pack out," reminds Jade G., emphasizing the responsibility of maintaining the wilderness character.
Arrive early for level spots: Level parking can be limited at trailhead camping areas. "Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," says Kevin C.
