Wayne National Forest provides free camping near South Bloomingville, Ohio with several dispersed camping areas located along forest roads and hiking trails. Camping sites in this region sit within a mixed hardwood forest at elevations ranging from 700 to 1000 feet. Most dispersed locations feature basic stone fire rings with minimal clearing for tents.
What to do
Explore backcountry trails: At Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, hikers can choose between two clearly marked loops. "There is a 5 mile loop or a longer ~15 mile loop that you can hike and there are campsites every couple of miles," notes camper Steve C. The trail system provides access to secluded campsites away from vehicle traffic.
Ride OHV trails: The Monday Creek OHV Dispersed area offers extensive off-highway vehicle trails open April through December. Visitors should note that "lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening" creates higher traffic during riding season, according to Kevin C.
Rock climbing: The steep hike to Witch's Peak rewards climbers with unique opportunities. "There are several boulder routes as well. At the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter," mentions Lucille W. The site requires hiking gear in and offers no facilities.
What campers like
Solitude and accessibility: Many campers appreciate the balance between remoteness and accessibility. "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," explains Ruby W.
Convenience for overnight stops: Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead serves well for quick stays. "There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well. There were restrooms and several fire rings," notes Taylor P., highlighting the flexibility for impromptu camping.
Spring wildflowers: Seasonal visitors can experience remarkable plant diversity. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," shares camper Lucille W., pointing to an optimal timing for nature observation.
What you should know
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Mud presents significant challenges in certain areas. "The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping). It can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that," warns Jade G. about Wildcat Hollow.
Water sources unreliable: Campers should not count on filtering water from streams. "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," cautions Steve C.
Cell coverage limitations: Service varies based on terrain. "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 one visitor to Wildcat Hollow.
Seasonal closures: New Straitsville Trailhead operations change throughout the year. "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)," observes Mic B., highlighting less crowded opportunities during winter.
Tips for camping with families
Best site selection: Choose established sites with fire rings for safety. "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," explains camper Jade G.
Parking lot proximity: For families with younger children, consider campsites near trailheads. "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., noting an easier option for those with kids.
Weekend planning: Arrive early on weekends to secure spots. "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., highlighting the importance of timing for family trips.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead parking: Some larger parking areas accommodate small to medium RVs. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," notes Kevin C. at Monday Creek OHV area, indicating viable overnight options for smaller recreational vehicles.
