The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Newark, OH

12 Reviews

Wayne National Forest provides primitive camping options within a 30-60 minute drive southwest of Newark, Ohio. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers free dispersed camping accessible via hiking trails, with sites featuring stone fire rings scattered along both a 5-mile and 15-mile loop. Monday Creek OHV area permits alcohol and provides vault toilets and trash collection, making it slightly more developed than other dispersed options. Access is primarily via drive-in for Monday Creek, while Wildcat Hollow requires hiking to reach most campsites.

The dispersed areas present varying challenges according to season and weather conditions. Wildcat Hollow trails become notably muddy after rainfall, with several visitors reporting difficult hiking conditions even in summer months. A review mentioned "the trail was a cesspool of mud in too many places especially on the stretch between the trailhead and the loop." Water sources along trails are not recommended for filtering due to potential contamination from nearby oil drilling activities. Most areas follow standard dispersed camping protocols: pack in all necessary supplies including drinking water, pack out all trash, and use existing fire rings when available.

Map showing campgrounds near Newark, OhioExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Newark, Ohio (6)

Show More
Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Newark Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Newark, OH

3 Photos of 6 Newark Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Newark, OH

12 Reviews of 6 Newark Campgrounds

  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Great Secluded Location

    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. There is a small shelter with bathrooms and other amenities, but not much else.

  • Steve C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Awesome packbacking spot

    Great spot for walk in or hike in camping! There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail. There is a 5 mile loop or a longer ~15 mile loop that you can hike and there are campsites every couple of miles. The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping. The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys. 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 (the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars) 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. Overall, it was a beautiful, quiet place and I only saw 2 other people in the trail while I was hiking out the second day.

  • E
    Jul. 1, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    The trail horribly muddy

    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 stetch between the trailhead and the loop.  I turned around. The trail needs to be planked, elevated or rerouted. This is on July 1. The seasonal creek beds all dry, but the muddy trail is awful especially in comparison to the hype that I read

  • J
    Nov. 1, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Very wet in the spring, but a challenging backpacking loop

    This campground is nice.  They are all designated campsites but they are first-come-first serve. They are hike-to only.  

    It is great for hiking and backpacking camping but if you are looking for car style camping, this is not it.

    The trail is challenging terrain, especially when backpacking.  It can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that.  

    The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping).

    There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot.

    This is pack in/pack out.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Backpacking haven

    This is part of the Wayne National Forest and a section of the Buckeye Trail. It is a great area for backpacking as camping is free and allowed anywhere along the trail, see the web site for limitations. "Small, open fires are permitted except during extremely high fire danger. Fire rings should be used when available. Make sure all campfires are extinguished before vacating the campsite."~Wayne National web site. Water can be difficult, there are streams but you should pack in any that you need. I took my daughters on a backpacking trip here in August 2016. It is a great area, but there were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent. Pets are allowed but must be on a 6 foot leash. Many other hiking, camping and other outdoor activities are close by.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/wayne/recarea/?recid=6228

  • Chris B.
    Jun. 16, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Wonderful overnight spot.

    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. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year.

  • S
    Aug. 14, 2022

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Beware the mud!

    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.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Amazing spring wildflowers

    I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek. I will note I have seen this site crowded before. 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. There is a restroom and garage can at the trail head. The trail has a smaller loop and a larger loop. Both are fairly easy hikes. I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Monday Creek OHV Dispersed

    Busy but good camping spot

    Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. 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. We slept soundly, made breakfast and were on our way. Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus.

Guide to Newark

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Newark, Ohio, where nature lovers can enjoy a more primitive and secluded outdoor experience. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the great outdoors.

Top Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers Near Newark

  • The Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers a challenging backpacking loop with designated campsites along the way, perfect for those looking to explore the rugged terrain.
  • For a more accessible option, the Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead provides a variety of hiking trails that are open year-round, making it a great spot for both summer and winter adventures.
  • If you’re seeking a quieter experience, the Stone Church Trailhead is a lesser-known area that allows for peaceful hikes away from the crowds.

Scenic Spots for Campfires and Relaxation

  • At the Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, you can enjoy a cozy campfire while surrounded by nature, making it an ideal spot for evening gatherings.
  • The Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead features several fire rings, allowing campers to unwind and enjoy the warmth of a fire after a day of exploring.
  • For those who appreciate a more rustic experience, the Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers primitive camping with stone fire rings, perfect for a true back-to-nature vibe.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities for Nature Enthusiasts

  • The Monday Creek OHV Dispersed is known for its diverse wildlife, making it a great location for spotting local fauna while enjoying your camping experience.
  • The Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed is surrounded by lush forests, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and observing other wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • At the Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, visitors often report sightings of deer and various bird species, enhancing the outdoor experience for nature lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Newark, Ohio?

The Wayne National Forest offers several free dispersed camping options near Newark. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed provides numerous free campsites along its trails, with spots available at the trailhead and throughout the 5-mile and 15-mile loops. These sites are first-come, first-served and perfect for backpackers seeking seclusion. For those with off-highway vehicles, Monday Creek OHV Dispersed offers free camping spots, including several near the vaulted toilet area. Both locations are within reasonable driving distance from Newark and require no fees or permits for overnight stays.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Newark?

Dispersed camping sites near Newark typically offer minimal amenities, focusing on primitive camping experiences. Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead provides basic facilities including pit toilets (though these may be closed during winter) and established campsites with fire rings. During peak season, multiple pull-off areas are available for camping. At Stone Church Trailhead, you'll find drive-in access but few other amenities. Most dispersed sites in the region feature cleared camping areas and sometimes fire rings, but lack potable water, electricity, or trash services, so campers should plan to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

When is the best time of year for dispersed camping around Newark, Ohio?

Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping near Newark. New Straitsville Trailhead and other dispersed sites in Wayne National Forest are most accessible during this period. Summer provides reliable dry conditions, but sites can become crowded, especially on weekends. Fall brings beautiful foliage but cooler temperatures. Many campers particularly enjoy September and October for comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. Winter camping is possible at Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead, but be aware that facilities like pit toilets are typically closed, trails may be restricted, and many campsites become inaccessible during the off-season.

Keep Exploring