Best Dispersed Camping near Clifton, OH
Dispersed camping opportunities near Clifton, Ohio include several primitive sites within Wayne National Forest. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers free camping with established trails and remote campsites. Kinderhook Horse Trail provides limited camping suitable for small groups, with a hand pump water spigot and vault toilet. Monday Creek OHV Dispersed features basic amenities including vault toilets and trash receptacles. Additional options include Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead and New Straitsville Trailhead, which serve primarily as access points for trail systems but permit overnight stays.
Most dispersed sites in this region require self-sufficiency. Campers should pack in all necessary water, as natural water sources may be contaminated. According to reviews, water in valleys near Wildcat Hollow is not recommended for filtering due to active oil drilling operations. Fire rings are available at some locations, and small open fires are permitted except during high fire danger periods. Several campers noted that Wildcat Hollow trails become extremely muddy after rainfall, particularly between the trailhead and loop sections.
These primitive camping areas experience seasonal variations in accessibility and usage. Wildcat Hollow features both a 5-mile and 15-mile loop with campsites positioned every few miles along the trails. Cell service is generally available on ridges but limited in valleys. Spring visits showcase abundant wildflowers, while summer brings dense foliage and insects. The OHV trail system operates seasonally from April through December, with weekends typically experiencing higher visitation rates. Vault toilets at some locations close during winter months. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted.
