Wayne National Forest offers secluded rustic camping near Reynoldsburg, Ohio, approximately 60-90 minutes southeast by car. The forest encompasses over 244,000 acres across three noncontiguous management units in southeastern Ohio. Primitive camping opportunities exist throughout the forest with varying accessibility options, from roadside pull-offs to backcountry sites requiring significant hiking. Spring typically brings wildflower displays while summer brings higher humidity and occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking seasonal trails: The Wildcat Hollow Trail system contains both short and long loop options for hikers seeking primitive camping. "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," notes Lucille W..
OHV riding: The Monday Creek trail system offers 75 miles of designated off-highway vehicle trails open seasonally from April through December. "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," reports Kevin C. about Monday Creek OHV Dispersed.
Winter exploration: Some areas remain accessible year-round for hiking even when OHV trails close. "Stayed one night. OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season," shares Doug H. about winter conditions.
What campers like
Seclusion and solitude: Many campers appreciate the remoteness of sites, particularly during weekdays. "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," writes Steve C. about his backpacking trip in Wildcat Hollow.
Convenient roadside options: For travelers seeking quick overnight stops without extensive hiking, several campgrounds offer convenient parking area camping. "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," reports Chris B. about Wildcat Hollow.
First-time backpacker friendly: The trail systems provide good entry-level backpacking experiences. "Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," shares Lucille W. about the approachable terrain.
What you should know
Seasonal facility closures: Winter months bring restricted access to certain amenities. "Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season," notes Doug H. about winter camping conditions at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Water concerns: Pack in all water needed for your stay. "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.
Muddy conditions: Trail conditions deteriorate quickly after rainfall. "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," cautions Shane about Wildcat Hollow.
Tips for camping with families
Overnight starter experiences: Several sites offer good introductory backcountry experiences for children. "I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," recommends Lucille W.
Campsite selection caution: Be careful where you set up tents with children. "It is a great area, but there were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent," advises Leon H. about Wildcat Hollow camping.
Weekend planning essential: Sites fill quickly during peak season weekends. "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," reports Taylor P. about camping at Dorr-Run.
Tips from RVers
Small RV spots available: Some trailhead parking areas can accommodate smaller recreational vehicles. "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.
Limited connectivity: Cell service exists but varies significantly by location. "Cell service was available, but not great," notes Taylor P. about reception at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Weekday arrivals recommended: For better site availability, arrive midweek. "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)," warns Mic B. about New Straitsville Trailhead.
