Dispersed camping near Rockbridge, Ohio within Wayne National Forest features several primitive sites across 240,000 acres of public land. The forest's elevation ranges from 640 to 1,090 feet, creating varied terrain with seasonal drainage patterns. Free camping is available at multiple trailheads with no reservation system, though visitors should prepare for minimal facilities and unpredictable ground conditions, especially after rainfall.
What to do
OHV trail riding: Monday Creek OHV Dispersed offers access to extensive off-highway vehicle trail systems. "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," notes Kevin C., who found the area provides "a great stop over location" with vaulted toilets and garbage receptacles as welcome bonuses.
Wildflower hiking: Spring visits to Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed reward hikers with seasonal blooms. "Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," according to Lucille W., who recommends visiting in springtime when "the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers."
Rock climbing: For those seeking vertical challenges, Witch's Peak offers technical routes on natural outcroppings. "The trail in is super steep. The climb is totally worth it though," explains one visitor who found "amazing rock out croppings and views" and "several boulder routes" at this primitive site.
What campers like
Solitude options: Many Wayne National Forest dispersed sites offer isolation from crowds, especially on weekdays. At Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, Steve C. noted, "it was a beautiful, quiet place and I only saw 2 other people in the trail while I was hiking out the second day."
Loop trail flexibility: Trails offer both shorter and longer options for overnight backpacking. "The trail has a smaller loop and a larger loop. Both are fairly easy hikes," states Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow, while Shane adds that "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."
Free camping: All dispersed sites in the area offer no-fee camping, though with correspondingly minimal amenities. "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," reports Ruby W.
What you should know
Seasonal mud challenges: Spring and post-rain periods create difficult trail conditions throughout the region. Shane warns campers at Wildcat Hollow to "beware the mud" and states that "if it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits."
Water limitations: Most sites require packing in all water needs. Steve C. cautions about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead water sources: "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."
Variable cell service: Connectivity fluctuates dramatically based on terrain position. "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," notes Steve C. At Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, Taylor P. found "cell service was available, but not great."
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter loops: Families should consider the shorter trail options for first visits with children. At Wildcat Hollow, campers can choose between "a 5 mile loop or a longer ~15 mile loop" with "campsites every couple of miles," making the shorter loop more appropriate for younger hikers.
Trailhead camping option: For families uncomfortable with backcountry camping, some sites offer easy access camping near parking areas. Chris B. shares that at New Straitsville Trailhead, they "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."
Weekend site selection: Arrive early on weekends to secure camping spots, especially at popular areas. Taylor P. reports that at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site clearing limitations: Most dispersed sites are minimally developed clearings with no leveling. Jade G. explains that at Wildcat Hollow, "They are all designated campsites but they are first-come-first serve. The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping."
Road condition awareness: Access roads require high clearance vehicles in many locations. "The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping)," warns Jade G., while Mic B. notes that Monday Creek OHV Dispersed is "not a bad spot for a one night travel spot" though it becomes "more congested between April-December (OHV permitted season)."
