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Best Dispersed Camping near Reynoldsburg, OH

12 Reviews

Wayne National Forest provides several dispersed camping areas within 60-90 minutes of Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers primitive, hike-in camping along both a 5-mile and 15-mile loop trail. Campsites are simply cleared areas with stone fire rings scattered throughout the trail system. The area features spring wildflowers but trails become notoriously muddy after rainfall. Monday Creek OHV area provides free drive-in tent camping with basic amenities including vault toilets and trash collection.

Dorr Run Red Oak Trailhead accommodates both tent and RV camping with drive-in access. The site includes fire rings, restrooms and cell service, though signal strength varies. This area becomes particularly busy during OHV season (April-December) with limited available campsites on weekends. Multiple reviews caution about seasonal closures, with some facilities like pit toilets closed during winter months. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used." All these dispersed sites require bringing your own water, as local water sources are not recommended for filtration due to oil drilling activity in the region.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Reynoldsburg, Ohio (6)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Reynoldsburg, OH

3 Photos of 6 Reynoldsburg Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Reynoldsburg, OH

12 Reviews of 6 Reynoldsburg Campgrounds

  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Great Secluded Location

    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. There is a small shelter with bathrooms and other amenities, but not much else.

  • Steve C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Awesome packbacking spot

    Great spot for walk in or hike in camping! There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail. There is a 5 mile loop or a longer ~15 mile loop that you can hike and there are campsites every couple of miles. The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping. The trails can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys. 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 (the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars) 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. 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.

  • E
    Jul. 1, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    The trail horribly muddy

    The campsites looked OK. Dry. No water available to filter.  Cautioned against using the water. But the trail was a cesspool of mud in too many places esp on the stetch between the trailhead and the loop.  I turned around. The trail needs to be planked, elevated or rerouted. This is on July 1. The seasonal creek beds all dry, but the muddy trail is awful especially in comparison to the hype that I read

  • J
    Nov. 1, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Very wet in the spring, but a challenging backpacking loop

    This campground is nice.  They are all designated campsites but they are first-come-first serve. They are hike-to only.  

    It is great for hiking and backpacking camping but if you are looking for car style camping, this is not it.

    The trail is challenging terrain, especially when backpacking.  It can be very wet and muddy in the spring (or after any rains), so be prepared for that.  

    The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping).

    There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot.

    This is pack in/pack out.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Backpacking haven

    This is part of the Wayne National Forest and a section of the Buckeye Trail. It is a great area for backpacking as camping is free and allowed anywhere along the trail, see the web site for limitations. "Small, open fires are permitted except during extremely high fire danger. Fire rings should be used when available. Make sure all campfires are extinguished before vacating the campsite."~Wayne National web site. Water can be difficult, there are streams but you should pack in any that you need. I took my daughters on a backpacking trip here in August 2016. It is a great area, but there were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent. Pets are allowed but must be on a 6 foot leash. Many other hiking, camping and other outdoor activities are close by.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/wayne/recarea/?recid=6228

  • Chris B.
    Jun. 16, 2019

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Wonderful overnight spot.

    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. nice area to visit i'll be back againg sometime this year.

  • S
    Aug. 14, 2022

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Beware the mud!

    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.

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2020

    Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed

    Amazing spring wildflowers

    I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek. I will note I have seen this site crowded before. The parking lot can be full of cars and a lot of the obvious / easy campsites along the trail can be taken. BUT I have also camped here and no one else was around. There is a restroom and garage can at the trail head. 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.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

Guide to Reynoldsburg

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Reynoldsburg, Ohio, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Reynoldsburg, Ohio

  • Make sure to pack out what you pack in, as sites like Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead emphasize a leave-no-trace policy to preserve the natural beauty.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot at popular locations like Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, which can get busy during peak times.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions; many sites, such as Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, lack amenities like running water and electricity, so bring all necessary supplies.

Top activities while free camping near Reynoldsburg

  • Enjoy hiking year-round at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, where trails provide access to stunning views and wildlife.
  • Explore the scenic routes and off-road trails available at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed, perfect for those looking to combine camping with adventure sports.
  • Experience the tranquility of nature while birdwatching or stargazing at Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed, where the remote setting enhances your connection to the outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead

  • This location offers a drive-in access point, making it convenient for those looking to set up camp quickly and enjoy the surrounding nature.
  • With no permit required, Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead is an excellent choice for spontaneous trips or last-minute getaways.
  • The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, allowing campers to relax and recharge away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Reynoldsburg, OH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Reynoldsburg, OH is Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed with a 3.9-star rating from 9 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Reynoldsburg, OH, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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