Free dispersed camping near Lubeck, West Virginia requires traveling across the Ohio border to Wayne National Forest. Most sites are accessible via unpaved forest roads and offer primitive conditions without developed facilities. Seasonal closures affect some areas, particularly during winter months when vault toilets are locked and certain access roads become impassable.
What to do
Hiking exploration: Wildcat Hollow offers two distinct loop options - a shorter 5-mile loop for day hikes or quick overnight trips and a challenging 15-mile loop for more experienced backpackers. "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," notes a visitor to Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Rock climbing: The steep terrain at Witch's Peak rewards climbers with panoramic views. "The trail in is super steep. The climb is totally worth it though. Some amazing rock out croppings and views up there! There are several boulder routes as well. At the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter!" according to a Witch's Peak visitor.
OHV trail riding: The Monday Creek area provides extensive off-highway vehicle trail systems, though seasonal closures apply. "Lots of trucks and toy haulers heading up the various roads into the late evening," reports a camper at Monday Creek OHV Dispersed. The trails typically close during winter months but reopen for spring through fall use.
What campers like
First-come camping spots: Camping near Lubeck doesn't require reservations, allowing spontaneous trips. "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," explains a backpacker at Wildcat Hollow.
Solitude on weekdays: Visiting during off-peak times provides more seclusion. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," shares a camper at Monday Creek OHV area. Another camper at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead notes: "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."
Convenient vault toilets: Several trailheads feature basic toilet facilities, though availability varies seasonally. "Vaulted toilet and garbage cans were a welcome bonus," reports a visitor to Monday Creek. However, at Dorr-Run, a camper notes: "Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season."
What you should know
Unreliable water sources: Streams in the area may contain contaminants from mining or drilling activities. A reviewer at Kinderhook Horse Trail reports: "Does have a small hand pump water spigot. Has no flush vault toilet." Pack in all drinking water as most sites have no reliable sources.
Mud challenges: The clay soil in this region becomes extremely muddy after rainfall. "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits," warns a Wildcat Hollow camper. Another notes: "The trail can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys."
Local traffic issues: Some areas experience unexpected visitor traffic. A Kinderhook Horse Trail camper reports: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Cell service considerations: Communication availability varies by location. "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," reports a Wildcat Hollow visitor. For family safety, test service upon arrival.
Insect preparation: The dense deciduous forests harbor significant insect populations, especially in summer. A camper at Kinderhook Horse Trail observes: "A lot of insects, humid and dense deciduous forest surrounding the trailhead." Bring appropriate repellents and protective clothing.
Winter accessibility: Some areas remain accessible year-round despite facility closures. "OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season," notes a visitor to New Straitsville Trailhead, adding "Overall not a bad spot for a one night travel spot but I could see it being more congested between April-December."
Tips from RVers
Overnight parking options: Several trailheads accommodate small RVs for single-night stays. "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," shares an RV owner who stayed at Wildcat Hollow.
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping locations near Lubeck have limited space for larger rigs. A Kinderhook Horse Trail visitor advises: "Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group." Scout parking areas before attempting access with larger vehicles.
