Primitive camping opportunities near New Concord, Ohio are concentrated primarily in the eastern portion of Wayne National Forest. This federally managed land spans over 244,000 acres across southeastern Ohio, with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,250 feet. The region features secondary growth hardwood forests that provide rustic camping sites with varying degrees of accessibility throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking trails with campsites: The Paw Paw trail at Kinderhook Horse Trail offers smooth, wide paths through deciduous forest. "The Paw Paw trail was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," notes Annika E., who appreciated the established routes despite finding the Kinderhook trail itself overgrown.
Seasonal wildflower viewing: Spring transforms the forest floor with diverse wildflowers. At Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, camper Lucille W. recommends visiting "in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers."
Boulder climbing: The steep hike to Witch's Peak rewards climbers with unique geological features. "Some amazing rock outcroppings and views up there! There are several boulder routes as well. At the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter," reports Lucille W.
What campers like
Secluded backpacking loops: The primitive nature of these sites appeals to those seeking minimal infrastructure. "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," reports Ruby W.
Proximity to trail systems: Camping at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead provides direct access to trail networks. "There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well. There were restrooms and several fire rings," explains Taylor P.
Water access: Some sites provide basic water amenities that campers value. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, Joe B. notes it "has a small hand pump water spigot" which is uncommon for dispersed sites in the region.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and limitations: Winter brings restricted access to certain facilities. "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.
Variable cellular reception: Signal strength depends heavily on terrain. One camper at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed observed good connectivity at their site, while Steve C. noted for Wildcat Hollow: "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."
Campsite availability patterns: Weekends see significantly higher usage than weekdays. "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," notes Taylor P. about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner backpacking location: Wildcat Hollow offers manageable trails for introducing children to overnight hiking. "Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," recommends Lucille W., who camps there frequently.
Campsite selection timing: Arrive early on weekends to secure preferred sites. At Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, Taylor P. arrived when "Saturday was super busy, and we snagged the last available spot with a fire ring."
Insect preparation: Dense forest areas harbor significant insect populations. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, Annika E. encountered "a lot of insects, humid and dense deciduous forest surrounding the trailhead," requiring appropriate protection, especially for children.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead overnight options: New Straitsville Trailhead provides basic overnight parking. "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)," notes Mic B., suggesting off-season visits for quieter stays.
Small RV accessibility: Limited space restricts vehicle size at most dispersed sites. Joe B. describes Kinderhook Horse Trail as "definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," making compact RVs or truck campers the only viable options.
Evening traffic considerations: Some sites experience regular vehicle movement throughout the night. Kevin C. at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed observed "lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," but still "slept soundly" despite the activity.
