Best Dispersed Camping near Long Bottom, OH
Dispersed camping options near Long Bottom, Ohio include several primitive sites within Wayne National Forest. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers free camping with established trails and remote campsites along a 5-mile and 15-mile loop. Monday Creek OHV provides drive-in access with basic amenities including vault toilets and trash receptacles. Kinderhook Horse Trail features tent spots near a picnic table and manual water pump, primarily serving equestrian users. Witch's Peak requires a steep hike to reach camping areas near distinctive rock formations and a natural shelter.
Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required. Campers report varying conditions throughout the seasons. According to reviews, Wildcat Hollow trails become extremely muddy after rainfall, particularly in spring, making hiking difficult. Fire rings are available at most established sites, and small open fires are permitted except during high fire danger periods. Pack out all trash and thoroughly extinguish campfires before departure. Cell service is inconsistent across the region, with better reception on ridges and limited connectivity in valleys.
Water availability is limited throughout the area. Several campers noted that while streams exist at Wildcat Hollow, signs at the trailhead advise against filtering this water due to active oil drilling operations. The Monday Creek OHV area provides vault toilets and garbage cans but no potable water. Kinderhook Horse Trail offers a hand pump water spigot near the restroom area. Visitors should pack in adequate water supplies, especially for backcountry camping. Spring visits showcase abundant wildflowers, while summer brings humid conditions and increased insect activity. Weekend use is considerably higher than weekdays, particularly at trailhead camping areas.
