Best Dispersed Camping near South Bloomingville, OH
Dispersed camping in the Wayne National Forest surrounds South Bloomingville, Ohio, with several primitive sites available for those seeking free, off-grid camping experiences. The Monday Creek OHV area, Dorr Run trailheads, and Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offer designated dispersed camping zones within the national forest. These areas typically feature simple clearings with stone fire rings and minimal to no amenities. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not require reservations or permits.
Access to many dispersed sites requires navigation along unpaved forest roads that can become challenging after rainfall. Several camping areas, particularly Wildcat Hollow, are accessible only by hiking in with gear. Vault toilets are available at some trailheads including Dorr Run Red Oak and Monday Creek OHV areas, but most locations lack drinking water, requiring campers to pack in all necessary supplies. Fires are permitted at most sites where established fire rings exist, though seasonal restrictions may apply. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better reception typically found on ridges and limited connectivity in valleys.
The dispersed camping areas near South Bloomingville provide access to extensive trail systems for hiking and OHV recreation. Wildcat Hollow features both 5-mile and 15-mile loop trails with primitive campsites positioned along the routes. "The trail can be a cesspool of mud in too many places," noted one visitor about spring conditions at Wildcat Hollow, while another mentioned that "the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers" during spring visits. Monday Creek OHV area tends to be busier, particularly on weekends during the permitted riding season (April-December). Campers seeking more solitude might find better options deeper into the Wildcat Hollow trail system, where one visitor reported that "the further you go, the less you see of people." Wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic forest landscapes characterize most of these backcountry camping locations.
