Best Dispersed Camping near Waverly, OH

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Waverly? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Waverly just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Waverly, OH (7)

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Recent Dispersed Reviews in Waverly

7 Reviews of 7 Waverly Campgrounds


  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Monday Creek OHV Dispersed
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Monday Creek OHV Dispersed

    Busy but good camping spot

    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. We slept soundly, made breakfast and were on our way. Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanging Rock Recreation Site
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Hanging Rock Recreation Site

    Better Than Walmart

    We stayed in the parking lot as it was getting dark and didn’t know if there were any place to turn our rv around. Very quiet night and were visited by fireflies which was awesome.

  • Rob G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanging Rock Recreation Site
    Apr. 18, 2021

    Hanging Rock Recreation Site

    Great spot and easy to find!

    With that being said, there was good and bad. The good was I found a spot quickly and had 2 entire ponds to myself. The bad was locals firing guns for the hell of it for an hour straight and the trash left behind from the previous campers. Once night fall hit everything was quiet so I couldn't complain too much. Awesome morning sunrise!

  • Marisa A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Hill Trailhead
    Oct. 16, 2020

    Sand Hill Trailhead

    Dispersed Camping best off Horseback Trails

    We arrived late at night wishing we had better cell reception and a paper map of the National Forest. We were grateful to have the Dyrt's info downloaded on my chromebook. Even still, Wayne National Forest is a maze of public and private land. The Ironton Campground has been closed during 2020 as part of a water main line break. We initially tried the Hanging Rock OHV trailhead, but locals used that area for partying when we were there and it wasn't ideal to camp at the trailhead with about a dozen cars speeding along the gravel roads around midnight. We found the Sand Hill Trail head and pitched camp not too far from where we parked. The NF website says fires are allowed if you make a stone ring. We just skipped it. It is a very pretty area along Vesuvius Lake with trees and bluffs. We saw a ranger in the morning and he suggested next time we just camp at the horsecamp. The pins on the Dyrt's map were inaccurately located when we were using it with multiple entries. Next time I will purchase a paper map before I go because Wayne National Forest has alot of private lands interspersed and it is not all that clear without an official map. Hopefully the Dyrt will get better at hyper locating those lines.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanging Rock Recreation Site
    Apr. 29, 2020

    Hanging Rock Recreation Site

    Motor Vehicle Area

    The Hanging Rock Recreation area features tons of well kept ATV trails for motor bikes or quads (max width allowed is 50 inches). Besides the ATV trails, there are tons of little lakes that are ideal for fishing! There is a large parking area in the middle of the park with a restroom, and at least one other restroom further down the road. I noticed several “fire pits” in gravel pull offs in the park. Not sure if fires are allowed though.

    We hiked here today to retrieve some trail cameras from the surrounding Wayne National Forest for a spotted skunk study at Ohio University. Along and just off the trails were tons of gorgeous wildflowers like trilliums, violets, showy orchids, and more!


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Guide to Waverly

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Waverly, Ohio, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a more rustic and secluded experience. With a variety of locations to choose from, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Lakes and Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Hanging Rock Recreation Site offers access to serene ponds and well-maintained ATV trails, making it a great choice for those who enjoy both fishing and off-road adventures.
  • At the Sand Hill Trailhead, campers can pitch their tents near Vesuvius Lake, surrounded by beautiful trees and bluffs, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
  • The Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead features hiking trails and ample pull-off areas, providing a convenient spot for those looking to explore the area on foot.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Waverly, Ohio

  • When visiting the Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, as it attracts many outdoor enthusiasts.
  • The Hanging Rock Recreation Area is known for its vibrant local wildlife, but campers should be cautious of litter and noise from nearby parties.
  • For a more tranquil experience, consider camping at the Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead, where you can enjoy the peace of nature without the need for a permit.

Unique Features to Explore for Dispersed Campers

  • The Timbre Ridge Lake area is perfect for those seeking a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, with no permits required for camping.
  • Campers at the Hanging Rock Recreation Site can enjoy the beauty of wildflowers along the trails, making it a picturesque location for nature lovers.
  • The Sand Hill Trailhead allows for campfires if you create a stone ring, adding a cozy touch to your camping experience under the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Waverly, OH?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Waverly, OH is Hanging Rock Recreation Site with a 3-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Waverly, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.