Wayne National Forest offers dispersed camping options southwest of Newark, Ohio, with sites located primarily in forested terrain at elevations between 700-1,100 feet. The region features Appalachian foothills topography with seasonal streams that often dry up during summer months. Camping areas range from trailhead-accessible sites to more remote locations requiring hiking through occasionally challenging terrain.
What to do
Hiking year-round: Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead in Wayne National Forest permits hiking throughout all seasons, even when OHV trails close for winter. "Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter," notes Doug H., who found the area "probably busy on weekends during the season."
Backpacking loops: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers multiple loop options for overnight trips. "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., who recommends spring visits when "the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers."
OHV trail access: Monday Creek OHV Dispersed serves as a hub for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts with multiple trail access points. "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," observed Kevin C., who found it a "great stop over location" with convenient amenities.
What campers like
Secluded backpacking: The remoteness of backpacking sites appeals to many visitors seeking solitude. "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," writes Jason M. about Wildcat Hollow, noting "several primitive campsites along the trail with nothing more than a stone fire ring and a clearing."
Cell service on ridges: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers connectivity in certain areas. Steve C. mentions, "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."
Vault toilets and trash disposal: Basic amenities at some trailheads provide convenience for overnight stays. At Monday Creek OHV, Kevin C. appreciated that "vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," making this location suitable for brief camping trips.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Surface water sources throughout the area have contamination risks. "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," warns Steve C.
Trail conditions vary dramatically: Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead conditions change seasonally, affecting accessibility. Taylor P. found varying occupancy: "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."
Mud challenges persist: Trail conditions deteriorate significantly after rain, potentially affecting trip plans. Shane notes at Wildcat Hollow, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near trailheads: For families with young children, stick to locations with shorter walking distances. "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," reports Chris B., who found Wildcat Hollow perfect for a simple overnight stay.
Consider weekday visits: New Straitsville Trailhead and other areas experience significantly less traffic on weekdays. Mic B. advises, "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)."
Plan for no amenities: Most sites require complete self-sufficiency with no reliable water sources. Jade G. emphasizes that Wildcat Hollow offers "no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot. This is pack in/pack out."
Tips from RVers
Limited suitable spaces: Most dispersed areas accommodate only smaller RVs or trailers at trailhead parking areas. Chris B. mentioned parking an "RRT in the parking lot" at Wildcat Hollow for an overnight stay, finding they "had the place pretty much all to ourselves all night."
Roadside pull-offs: Taylor P. observed at Dorr-Run Red Oak that "there are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used" when primary camping spots were full, providing alternatives for RVs that can't access main areas.
