Dispersed camping near Petroleum, West Virginia primarily centers around the adjacent Wayne National Forest in Ohio. The forest encompasses over 244,000 acres of public land across southeastern Ohio with several primitive camping options approximately 20-30 miles from Petroleum. Camping is permitted year-round with a 14-day stay limit enforced throughout the forest. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,250 feet and mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Several established paths at Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offer spring wildflower viewing opportunities. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," notes reviewer Lucille W.
Rock climbing: Witch's Peak provides challenging terrain for climbers with several boulder routes. "The trail in is super steep. The climb is totally worth it though. Some amazing rock out croppings and views up there," according to Lucille W., who adds that "at the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter!"
Solitude seeking: For those seeking quiet camping experiences away from crowds, the more remote campsites along Wildcat Hollow's trails offer isolation. Camper Jason M. reports, "The land is all regrowth forest and the further you go, the less you see of people - a novelty in this part of the world."
What campers like
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites in the area feature stone fire rings that previous campers have constructed. Steve C. notes at Wildcat Hollow, "The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping."
Cell service on ridges: Despite the remote setting, communication remains possible in certain areas. "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," according to Steve C.
Multiple loop options: Kinderhook Horse Trail offers varied trail experiences. "The Kinderhook trail was overgrown. The Paw Paw trail on the other hand was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," reports Annika E.
What you should know
Water concerns: Free camping near Petroleum, West Virginia comes with water limitations. According to reviewers, streams and seasonal creeks in the area aren't reliable for filtering. Jade G. explains about Wildcat Hollow, "This is pack in/pack out. There are no amenities except for an outhouse in the parking lot."
Trail conditions: Rain significantly impacts the region's trails. Shane notes, "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits," while Steve C. adds that trails "can be a bit muddy after it rains and probably take a long time to dry out down in the valleys."
Limited amenities: Kinderhook offers minimal facilities. Joe B. describes it as having "no fire rings, one picnic table. Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group. Nice trails. Seem to be well maintained. Does have a small hand pump water spigot. Has no flush vault toilet."
Tips for camping with families
First-time backpacking: Wildcat Hollow provides suitable terrain for introducing children to backpacking. Lucille W. states, "Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek."
Campsite planning: For families with young children, consider camping closer to trailheads. Shane advises, "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."
Tree safety awareness: When selecting tent sites with children, assess overhead hazards. Leon H. cautions, "There were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent."
Tips from RVers
Limited space considerations: Kinderhook Horse Trail offers minimal room for larger vehicles. Joe B. observes, "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. Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group."
Overnight parking options: For those seeking simple no-cost camping near Petroleum without hiking, Wildcat Hollow's parking area can accommodate some RVs. Chris B. reports, "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."
Local traffic awareness: RVers should note that some dispersed camping areas experience regular local visitors. Jack H. shares about Kinderhook, "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."
