Dispersed camping options in Wayne National Forest provide primitive recreation areas approximately 70-75 miles southeast of Lockbourne, Ohio. The forest encompasses over 244,000 acres across southeastern Ohio with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,200 feet. These rustic camping locations primarily serve as base camps for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts during the permitted season running April through December.
What to do
Trail exploration: Hikers can access Wayne National Forest trails year-round, even when the OHV trails close for winter. New Straitsville Trailhead serves as an access point for these trails, though a camper notes, "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)."
Overnight stays: The camping areas provide convenient stopping points for travelers passing through the region. At Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, one visitor reported, "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. We slept soundly, made breakfast and were on our way. Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus."
Off-season exploration: Winter visitors find significantly reduced crowds but limited amenities. A camper at Dorr Run Red Oak Trailhead observed, "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter."
What campers like
Seclusion factor: The primitive nature of Wayne National Forest camping appeals to those seeking undeveloped camping near Lockbourne. As one visitor to Monday Creek OHV Dispersed simply stated, "My kinda place," when describing the primitive, off-the-grid camping experience.
Availability of basic facilities: Despite the rustic setting, some sites offer minimal amenities that campers appreciate. The presence of vault toilets and trash receptacles at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed were specifically mentioned as "a welcome bonus" by visitors using the area as an overnight stop.
Fire rings at select sites: Campers at Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead appreciate the established fire rings at some pullouts. Competition exists for these spots, with one Dorr Run visitor noting how they "snagged the last available spot with a fire ring" during a busy weekend.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and limitations: Winter visitors face significant restrictions when exploring primitive camping sites near Lockbourne. At Dorr Run Red Oak Trailhead, "Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter."
Weekend congestion: Traffic patterns vary dramatically between weekdays and weekends, particularly during OHV season. One New Straitsville Trailhead visitor noted the area can become "more congested between April-December" during permitted OHV season.
Variable cell service: Communication capabilities fluctuate throughout the forest. While some connectivity exists, reliability varies by location and carrier. One camper mentioned, "Cell service was available, but not great" at Dorr Run.
Site selection timing: Arriving early improves chances of securing preferred spots. At Stone Church Trailhead, weekends fill quickly, similar to other areas where visitors report significant evening traffic with "lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening."
Tips for camping with families
Best arrival times: For family camping trips, midweek arrivals provide more options and less competition for sites with amenities like fire rings. Weekend arrivals should plan to reach sites by early afternoon, as one camper noted their group "snagged the last available spot with a fire ring" on a Saturday at Dorr Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Facility preparation: Families should bring portable toilet supplies for locations lacking facilities or during winter when vault toilets close. Several sites have no permanent restroom facilities, and others close seasonally.
Supply planning: No potable water exists at any dispersed camping areas in Wayne National Forest. Families must bring all necessary water supplies for drinking, cooking, and cleaning during their stay at locations like Dorr Run Elm Trailhead.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Most RVers select Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area due to its accessibility and minimal facilities. One visitor noted, "Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," indicating the availability of adequate parking for RVs and trailers.
Hookup alternatives: No electrical, water, or sewer connections exist at any dispersed camping location in Wayne National Forest. RVers must be fully self-contained with adequate battery power and tank capacity for their intended stay duration.
Road conditions: Access roads require careful navigation, particularly for larger rigs. Many roads become challenging or impassable during wet conditions, limiting RV access to main trailhead areas only.
