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

Best Dispersed Camping near Pataskala, OH

12 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Pataskala, Ohio centers primarily around the Wayne National Forest area, located approximately 60-70 miles southeast of Pataskala. The forest contains several primitive camping options including Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, and various trailheads such as Dorr Run Red Oak, Dorr Run-Elm, New Straitsville, and Stone Church. These areas provide backcountry camping opportunities with minimal to no amenities, typically consisting of cleared areas with stone fire rings where permitted.

Access to most dispersed sites requires preparation for primitive conditions. Many locations feature dirt or gravel roads that can become extremely muddy after rainfall, particularly at Wildcat Hollow where trail conditions are frequently cited as challenging. Most sites lack drinking water, with reviews cautioning against filtering from local water sources. Toilet facilities are limited, with only some locations like Monday Creek OHV and Dorr Run Red Oak Trailhead offering vault toilets. Camping is free at Wildcat Hollow and Monday Creek OHV areas, while others may have fees during certain seasons. Fires are permitted at some locations but prohibited at others, with established fire rings available at certain sites.

The camping experience varies significantly across these areas. Wildcat Hollow offers both short (5-mile) and longer (15-mile) loop trails with campsites positioned every few miles, making it suitable for backpacking. The area features spring wildflowers and regrowth forest with increasing seclusion the further hikers venture from the trailhead. Monday Creek provides more accessible camping with designated spots near the parking area. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," noted one visitor to Monday Creek OHV. Another camper at Wildcat Hollow shared that it's "a great area for backpacking as camping is free and allowed anywhere along the trail," though they cautioned about "lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent."

Map showing campgrounds near Pataskala, OhioExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pataskala, Ohio (6)

Show More
Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Pataskala Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Pataskala, OH

3 Photos of 6 Pataskala Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pataskala, OH

12 Reviews of 6 Pataskala 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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 Pataskala

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pataskala, Ohio, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a more rustic and secluded outdoor experience. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead

  • The Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead offers a range of features, including fire rings and accessible restrooms, making it a convenient choice for those looking to camp in a natural setting.
  • This area allows pets, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure, ensuring everyone in the family can enjoy the great outdoors together.
  • With hiking allowed year-round, visitors can explore the scenic trails even during the off-season, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pataskala, Ohio

  • When visiting Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, be prepared for muddy conditions, especially after rain, as the terrain can be challenging but rewarding for adventurous campers.
  • This location features designated campsites that are first-come, first-served, so arriving early can help secure a prime spot for your camping experience.
  • Remember to pack in and pack out, as amenities are limited, with only an outhouse available at the trailhead, ensuring a true back-to-nature experience.

Scenic views await at Stone Church Trailhead

  • The Stone Church Trailhead is a drive-in location that provides easy access to beautiful landscapes, perfect for those who prefer a more straightforward camping experience.
  • With no permit required, this spot is ideal for spontaneous trips, allowing campers to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of reservations.
  • The surrounding area is known for its tranquility, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the noise of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pataskala, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pataskala, OH is Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed with a 3.9-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pataskala, OH?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Pataskala, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring