Stephen R.
Guide
GuideNew Straitsville Trailhead
One night stop
Nice for one night stop
Best Dispersed Camping in Ohio
Wayne National Forest provides several free dispersed camping opportunities in southeastern Ohio. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers primitive campsites along a 15-mile backpacking loop with shorter 5-mile options. Campers report "secluded spots and an easy yet pretty trail" making it "perfect for a first-time backpacking trek," though trails become extremely muddy after rainfall. Most sites are simply cleared areas with stone fire rings, and water sources are unreliable or not recommended for filtering.
The forest also features dispersed camping options for vehicle access, including Monday Creek OHV area, Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, and Kinderhook Horse Trail. These locations typically provide vault toilets and designated parking but minimal amenities. Hanging Rock Recreation Site and New Straitsville Trailhead offer additional options but receive mixed reviews. A visitor noted Kinderhook has "flat tent spots" and "a picnic table, tent spots and a manual water pump" near the restroom area. Most dispersed sites in Ohio require pack-in water, have seasonal limitations, and follow standard Leave No Trace practices with fires permitted in existing rings when not restricted.
Best Dispersed Campgrounds in Ohio (15)
1. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed
9 ReviewsCorning, OHWebsite"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."
"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."
2. Kinderhook Horse Trail
6 ReviewsNewport, OH"Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road.Can camp here in certain spots. Not much area to camp. No fire rings, one picnic table."
"Close to the restroom there’s a picnic table, tentspots and a manual water pump. A lot of insects, humid and dense deciduous forest surrounding the trailhead. The Kinderhook trail was overgrown."
3. Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead
3 ReviewsNelsonville, OH"OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season. Nice place."
"The second night we only had one tent near us. There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
4. Monday Creek OHV Dispersed
3 ReviewsNelsonville, OHWebsite"Great stop over location. Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus."
5. New Straitsville Trailhead
3 ReviewsCorning, OH6. Hanging Rock Recreation Site
3 ReviewsHanging Rock, OHWebsite"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."
7. Dorr Run-Elm Trailhead
1 ReviewNelsonville, OH"Relatively flat; during OHV off season, one of the roads is closed, I believe to Dorr Run. This trailhead is mainly for OHV riders so there is space for a vehicle and trailer."
8. Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 18-19)
1 ReviewGrover Hill, OHWebsite"You're learning to backpack the Buckeye Trail, and you want to know where and how you can camp along the trail."
9. Witch’s Peak
1 ReviewAthens, OH10. Deshler Crossroads Park
1 ReviewNorth Baltimore, OH
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos in Ohio
5 Photos of 15 Ohio Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Dispersed Camping Reviews in Ohio
29 Reviews of 15 Ohio Campgrounds
Ilce H.GuideMonday Creek OHV Dispersed
Ok but FREE
Its free so worth it but i would not stay here again. Its not too “dispersed” its more of a parking lot + atvs driving all day if your sensitive to noise. Oh its also raining ticks here. Stayed for one night.
Travis L.
TravelerNew Straitsville Trailhead
Very nice
Nice and quiet. Bathroom was locked. Only one other person here. 10/10 recommend
- TTyler O.Traveler
Kinderhook Horse Trail
Quiet, small spot, perfect for a short camping trip.
There are two small camping spots with picnic tables. The vault toilet here is very clean and even had a lockable door. There is also drinkable water from a city water hand pump. Very quiet at night, except for a handful of cars that might drive through or spend the night. I spent two weeks here and had zero issues with people being loud or causing a ruckus. As far as fire wood, you can walk around and pick up all the downed wood you’d like, but I’d recommend bringing some wood with you if it’s rained in the last few days. Plenty of space to park. Gas stations, fast food, and dollar general are all within 10 mins. Verizon signal - 1/2 bars ATT signal - 2/3 bars
- JJack H.Traveler
Kinderhook Horse Trail
Nice Site, Not Private
The site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit. I’ve had two cars drive in after sunset who have just sat around for a bit then left. I would not recommend this site if you are traveling solo (Like I am).
- HHarley S.
ScoutHanging Rock Recreation Area
Didn’t like it at all
Me and my family were here for 2 days and everything about it especially at night it’s really scary would not recommend
- DDexter V.Guide
Kinderhook Horse Trail
Sketchy.
People coming and going every 15 minutes ish. Some folks pull in stare at you for a few seconds then leave. Only staying one night here then moving on.
- MMic B.Scout
New Straitsville Trailhead
Really just parking for an OHV trail
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)
- Harley G.Guide
Kinderhook Horse Trail
Okay small area
Was a “okay” small area to stay at for free. There was a lot of bees, yellow jackets. The bathroom was clean, but the "non-flush" toilet was just gross.
Guide to Ohio
Ohio offers a variety of opportunities for dispersed camping, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. From scenic trails to primitive sites, there's something for everyone.
Tips for free and dispersed camping in Ohio
- Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed: This area is perfect for those seeking a primitive experience, with designated campsites that are first-come, first-served along a challenging hiking loop.
- Kinderhook Horse Trail: Ideal for horse enthusiasts, this spot features flat tent sites and a clean restroom, making it a convenient choice for those traveling with horses.
- Monday Creek OHV Dispersed: A great option for off-road vehicle users, this location allows for fires and offers a vault toilet, ensuring a more comfortable stay in the wild.
Scenic attractions for dispersed campers
- Hanging Rock Recreation Site: Known for its beautiful ATV trails and serene ponds, this area is a hidden gem for fishing and enjoying nature, despite some mixed reviews about cleanliness.
- Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead: This site provides access to hiking trails and is a popular spot for those looking to camp near the trailhead, with several fire rings available for use.
- Witch’s Peak: A challenging hike leads to stunning rock outcroppings and views, making it a rewarding destination for those willing to tackle the steep trail.
Dispersed campers should check out these unique spots
- Greenbrier: This area features beautiful trails and picnic spots, perfect for a day of exploration or a quiet retreat, although it lacks traditional camping amenities.
- Hanging Rock Recreation Area: Despite some concerns about cleanliness, this location offers a variety of outdoor activities and is accessible for both drive-in and hike-in campers.
- Sand Hill Trailhead: Nestled along Vesuvius Lake, this picturesque area is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful camping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping in Ohio?
Where can I find dispersed camping in Ohio?
Dispersed camping in Ohio is primarily available in Wayne National Forest, which offers several designated areas. Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed is a popular location with numerous remote campsites along both a 5-mile and 15-mile loop trail. For those following the Buckeye Trail, Delphos Section - Buckeye Trail (Points 18-19) offers primitive camping spots near Hipp's Lock on the old Miami-Erie Canal towpath. Wayne National Forest has three separate units (Athens, Marietta, and Ironton) each offering different dispersed camping opportunities. Remember that dispersed camping in Ohio requires following leave-no-trace principles, and some areas have specific regulations regarding campfires and site selection.
Is dispersed camping free in Wayne National Forest?
Is dispersed camping free in Wayne National Forest?
Yes, dispersed camping in Wayne National Forest is free. Hanging Rock Recreation Site and other dispersed areas throughout the forest offer no-cost camping opportunities. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout much of the forest with a few restrictions: you must camp at least 200 feet from water sources, roads, and trails. Small open fires are permitted except during high fire danger periods, and existing fire rings should be used when available. While camping is free, some developed recreation areas may have day-use fees. There's a 14-day stay limit within any 30-day period. Remember that facilities are minimal or non-existent at dispersed sites, so come prepared with your own water and waste disposal plan.
Where is primitive camping allowed in Ohio state forests?
Where is primitive camping allowed in Ohio state forests?
Primitive camping is permitted in designated areas within Ohio's state forests, including Zaleski, Mohican, Shawnee, and Pike State Forests. Each has specific primitive backpacking areas with established campsites. For those seeking horse-friendly options, Kinderhook Horse Trail offers primitive camping spots alongside equestrian trails. The Buckeye Trail also provides primitive camping opportunities as it traverses multiple state forests. Most state forest primitive sites require a free permit obtainable online or at forest offices. Sites typically have minimal amenities—perhaps a fire ring and cleared tent area. State forests generally restrict camping to designated areas only, unlike the more flexible dispersed camping rules in Wayne National Forest. Check with the specific state forest office before your trip as regulations and permits may change seasonally.
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