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Best Dispersed Camping near Logan, OH

13 Reviews

Wayne National Forest offers several dispersed camping areas near Logan, Ohio. The Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area, Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, and Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail provide free primitive camping options on U.S. Forest Service land. These sites are typically located at trailheads or along forest roads, with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. Most sites consist of simple clearings with established fire rings but minimal other facilities.

Access conditions vary significantly between locations. Many sites require navigation via unpaved forest roads that may become difficult during wet weather. Monday Creek OHV and Dorr-Run areas offer drive-in access with some sites having vault toilets and trash collection, while others like Wildcat Hollow require hiking in to reach campsites. Most areas permit campfires except during high fire danger periods. "The OHV trails are closed for winter, but hiking is allowed year-round. Most campsites are inaccessible during the off-season," notes one visitor about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead. Seasonal closures affect site availability, particularly at OHV trailheads.

Camping experiences differ across these locations based on proximity to trails and seasonal usage patterns. The Wildcat Hollow area features hiking loops with campsites scattered along the trail. "The good sites are miles in and will necessitate doing the entire loop. If it has rained recently, expect numerous mudpits," reports one camper. Trailhead camping areas can become crowded during peak seasons, especially weekends. "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," describes a Dorr-Run visitor. Cell service is limited in most areas, with better reception on ridges than in valleys. Water sources are not recommended for filtering, so campers should pack in all needed water.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Logan, Ohio (7)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Logan, OH

13 Reviews of 7 Logan Campgrounds

  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Great Secluded Location

    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. There is a small shelter with bathrooms and other amenities, but not much else.

  • Steve C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Awesome packbacking spot

    Great spot for walk in or hike in camping! There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail. There is a 5 mile loop or a longer ~15 mile loop that you can hike and there are campsites every couple of miles. The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping. The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys. 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 (the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars) 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. 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.

  • E
    Jul. 1, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    The trail horribly muddy

    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.  I turned around. The trail needs to be planked, elevated or rerouted. This is on July 1. The seasonal creek beds all dry, but the muddy trail is awful especially in comparison to the hype that I read

  • J
    Nov. 1, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Very wet in the spring, but a challenging backpacking loop

    This campground is nice.  They are all designated campsites but they are first-come-first serve. They are hike-to only.  

    It is great for hiking and backpacking camping but if you are looking for car style camping, this is not it.

    The trail is challenging terrain, especially when backpacking.  It can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that.  

    The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping).

    There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot.

    This is pack in/pack out.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Backpacking haven

    This is part of the Wayne National Forest and a section of the Buckeye Trail. It is a great area for backpacking as camping is free and allowed anywhere along the trail, see the web site for limitations. "Small, open fires are permitted except during extremely high fire danger. Fire rings should be used when available. Make sure all campfires are extinguished before vacating the campsite."~Wayne National web site. Water can be difficult, there are streams but you should pack in any that you need. I took my daughters on a backpacking trip here in August 2016. It is a great area, but there were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent. Pets are allowed but must be on a 6 foot leash. Many other hiking, camping and other outdoor activities are close by.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/wayne/recarea/?recid=6228

  • Chris B.
    Jun. 16, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Wonderful overnight spot.

    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.  Clean pit toilet. Nice trails to walk. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 8, 2020

    Witch’s Peak

    Sweet spot

    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! A very neat local treasure.

  • S
    Aug. 14, 2022

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Beware the mud!

    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. If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Amazing spring wildflowers

    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. The parking lot can be full of cars and a lot of the obvious / easy campsites along the trail can be taken. BUT I have also camped here and no one else was around. There is a restroom and garage can at the trail head. 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.

Guide to Logan

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Logan, Ohio, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy the freedom of primitive camping. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

  • Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers a unique hiking experience with several campsites located along a scenic loop trail, making it ideal for those who enjoy both hiking and camping.
  • Be prepared for muddy conditions, especially after rain, as the terrain can be challenging, but the stunning views and tranquility make it worthwhile.
  • The sites are primitive, featuring stone fire rings, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring a true back-to-nature experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Logan, Ohio

  • For those looking for a more off-the-grid experience, Monday Creek OHV Dispersed provides a great spot with easy access for vehicles and a welcoming atmosphere for campers.
  • Arriving early in the day can help secure a good spot, as this area can get busy, especially on weekends.
  • Facilities include a vaulted toilet and trash disposal, making it a convenient choice for those who want to camp without sacrificing too much comfort.

Witch’s Peak for dispersed campers

  • The hike to Witch’s Peak is steep but rewarding, leading to breathtaking rock formations and stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • This location is perfect for those who enjoy bouldering and exploring unique geological features, adding an adventurous twist to your camping trip.
  • While the trail can be challenging, the secluded nature of the site ensures a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, making it a hidden gem for outdoor lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Logan, Ohio?

The Wayne National Forest offers excellent free dispersed camping options near Logan. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed is a popular choice with numerous established campsites along both its 5-mile and 15-mile loop trails. The sites are first-come, first-served, making this location perfect for backpacking and hiking adventures. For those seeking OHV access, Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead provides multiple pull-off areas and designated spots with fire rings. Note that many sites fill quickly on weekends, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Logan?

Dispersed camping sites around Logan offer minimal amenities, true to the backcountry experience. At Witch's Peak, you'll find primitive camping with no facilities, but the reward is amazing rock outcroppings and scenic views after a steep hike. Stone Church Trailhead provides basic drive-in access for dispersed camping. Most dispersed sites feature established fire rings only, with no running water, electricity, or trash service. Some locations like New Straitsville Trailhead may have pit toilets, though these are often closed during winter months. Remember to pack in all supplies and pack out all trash.

Is a permit required for dispersed camping in the Logan area?

No permit is typically required for dispersed camping in the Logan area's Wayne National Forest. Monday Creek OHV Dispersed and Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead follow standard National Forest regulations where dispersed camping is allowed without formal permits. However, there are restrictions to follow: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, stay only at established sites along designated trails, and adhere to fire regulations. During high fire danger periods, open fires may be prohibited. Maximum stay limits (typically 14 days within a 30-day period) apply. Always check the Wayne National Forest website for current regulations before your trip, especially for seasonal closures.

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