Dispersed camping near New Plymouth, Ohio includes several free primitive sites within Wayne National Forest. The forest spans over 244,000 acres across southeastern Ohio with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,250 feet. Most dispersed sites remain accessible year-round but experience seasonal limitations due to weather conditions and trail maintenance schedules.
What to do
Hiking trails: Wildcat Hollow offers both short and long loop options for backpackers. "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," reports Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers."
Rock climbing: The challenging terrain around Witch's Peak provides opportunities for boulder routes and rock scrambling. "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," notes Lucille W.
OHV trails: The Monday Creek area maintains designated off-highway vehicle routes that attract riders with trucks and toy haulers. The trails open seasonally from April through December. "Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty. Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," writes Kevin C.
What campers like
Seclusion: Many dispersed sites offer privacy away from developed campgrounds. "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," states Ruby W..
Forest regrowth: The second-growth forest provides a sense of wilderness despite being in Ohio. "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," describes Jason M. "There are several primitive campsites along the trail with nothing more than a stone fire ring and a clearing."
Beginner-friendly backpacking: The relatively moderate terrain makes this area suitable for first-time backpackers. "I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," shares Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow.
What you should know
Trail conditions: Many trails become extremely muddy after rain events. "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," warns Shane about Wildcat Hollow.
Water sources: Streams in the area should not be considered reliable for drinking water. "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," cautions Steve C. Pack in all water needed for your stay.
Cell service: Coverage varies significantly throughout the forest. "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," notes Steve C. "Cell service was available, but not great," confirms Taylor P. about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Tips for camping with families
Short loop options: For families with younger hikers, consider shorter trail segments. "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," shares Chris B. about Wildcat Hollow.
Trailhead camping: Several sites offer camping near trailheads, reducing hiking distance for children. "Stayed here for two nights. 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," explains Taylor P. about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Seasonal considerations: Plan family trips during drier periods to avoid muddy conditions. "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 stretch between the trailhead and the loop," reports Eric S. about his July visit to Wildcat Hollow.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead parking: Some trailheads accommodate small RVs for overnight stays. "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)," advises Mic B. about New Straitsville Trailhead.
Seasonal closures: Winter access affects facility availability. "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season," notes Doug H. about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Limited amenities: RVers should prepare for primitive conditions with no hookups. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," reports Kevin C. about Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
