Dispersed camping near Logan, Ohio centers around Wayne National Forest's Athens Ranger District. Forest roads in this area traverse rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 660-1000 feet, creating distinct microclimates between valleys and ridges. Campsites are generally primitive clearings located at trailheads or along forest service roads, with availability varying significantly by season and weather conditions.
What to do
Trail exploration: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers extensive hiking opportunities through diverse forest terrain. "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," shares Lucille W.
Rock climbing: Witch's Peak provides challenging climbing routes near camping areas. "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," explains Lucille W.
Overnight backpacking: The forest offers multiple backpacking loops with varying difficulty. "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.
What campers like
Solitude and seclusion: Many campers appreciate the remote nature of these sites. "Went backpacking camping with a friend on this loop - we took the shorter of the two. The land is all regrowth forest and the further you go, the less you see of people - a novelty in this part of the world," reports Jason M.
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed serves as an excellent introduction to overnight hiking. "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," cautions Lucille W.
Convenience for travelers: Some sites work well for quick overnight stays. "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," states Chris B.
What you should know
Site availability: Dispersed camping areas fill quickly during peak periods. At Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, "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. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well," explains Taylor P.
Seasonal conditions: Trail conditions vary dramatically with recent weather. "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," warns Eric S.
Water sources: Bring all water needed for your stay. "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," advises Steve C.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites closer to trailheads for easier family camping. "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," recommends Shane.
Weekend planning: Arrive early on weekends to secure preferred camping spots. "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," mentions Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow.
Facility considerations: Monday Creek OHV Dispersed offers some amenities helpful for families. "Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," notes Kevin C.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," shares Kevin C. about Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
Seasonal access: Winter access varies significantly by site. "Stayed one night. 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.
Off-season alternatives: Some parking areas function as overflow camping. "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)," mentions Mic B. regarding New Straitsville Trailhead.
