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Best Dispersed Camping near Pioneer, OH

3 Reviews

The Delphos Section along Ohio's Buckeye Trail offers primitive camping opportunities for backpackers near Pioneer. Located at Points 18-19, this free site sits just 0.17 miles off the main trail adjacent to Hipp's Lock, a remnant of the historic Miami-Erie Canal towpath. The small clearing accommodates approximately two tents and includes a metal fire ring. Campers must follow Leave-No-Trace principles as no facilities, toilets, or trash service exist on site. Access is limited to hike-in or walk-in only, making this area suitable exclusively for tent camping.

Chain O'Lakes area in nearby Indiana provides additional dispersed options for those willing to travel slightly farther. While reviews mention fire rings and picnic tables at some locations, information about actual free boondocking is inconsistent, with one camper noting "Although it states in the app free dispersed camping... The cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks." The environment features abundant wildlife, with a visitor remarking that "tree frogs and bull frogs will lull you to sleep" at the pond-adjacent sites.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Pioneer, Ohio (3)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pioneer, OH

3 Reviews of 3 Pioneer Campgrounds

  • Jonathan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 24, 2019

    Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 18-19)

    On the trail respite

    You're learning to backpack the Buckeye Trail, and you want to know where and how you can camp along the trail. This primitive site is located a short hop (.17 mile) off the trail adjacent to Hipp's Lock, part of the old Miami-Erie Canal towpath.  There's space enough for perhaps two tents, with metal fire ring, and plenty of deadfall for that small survival TV fire. The pond is filled with wildlife, and the tree frogs and bull frogs will lull you to sleep. Another Boy Scout project that benefits the Buckeye Trail. You'll need to Leave-No-Trace, as it's a primitive site, but it's a welcome respite from the road walking of this section.

  • Clay T.
    Dec. 26, 2024

    Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite

    "Free, never heard of that app."

    Although it states in the app free dispersed camping. Doesn't always mean just that. The cheapest campsite at primitive camping is $12 bucks. (Tent sites) For more, you can get electric hookup sites galore that all include a fire ring picnic table and a pretty leveled out spot.

Guide to Pioneer

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pioneer, Ohio, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the serenity of the outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots to consider for your next adventure.

Dispersed campers should check out Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite

Enjoy wildlife watching while free camping near Pioneer

  • The Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 18-19) is a great spot for observing local wildlife, with a pond nearby that attracts various species, making it a perfect place for nature lovers. Explore more at Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 18-19).

Campfires and relaxation for dispersed campers

  • At the Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail, you can enjoy a cozy campfire with a metal fire ring, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of hiking. Learn more about this location at Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 18-19).

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pioneer, OH is Chain O'lakes State Park Dispersed Campsite with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Pioneer, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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