Dispersed camping opportunities around St. Marys, West Virginia extend primarily into Wayne National Forest across the Ohio border. This region features deciduous forest terrain with elevations ranging from 650-950 feet and numerous seasonal creeks. Camping areas become particularly challenging during wet periods, with most trails developing significant mud accumulation that can persist for weeks even after rainfall stops.
What to do
Hiking backcountry loops: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail offers both beginner and advanced backpacking options. "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," reports Ruby W. from Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Spring wildflower viewing: The forest floor transforms during April-May with native woodland flowers. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," notes Lucille W.
Rock climbing and bouldering: Witch's Peak provides natural rock formations suitable for climbing. "Some amazing rock out croppings and views up there! There are several boulder routes as well," reports Lucille W., though access requires preparation: "The trail in is super steep. The climb is totally worth it though."
What campers like
Natural rock shelters: Unique geological features provide both exploration opportunities and natural protection from elements. "At the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter! A very neat local treasure," notes a visitor to Witch's Peak.
Solitude on weekdays: Mid-week camping offers significantly more privacy across all dispersed sites. "Parked our RRT in the parking lot on a Monday evening and had the place pretty much all to ourselves all night," reports Chris B. from Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed.
Clean facilities at trailheads: Despite being primitive, some areas maintain surprisingly clean facilities. "The vault toilet here is very clean and even had a lockable door. There is also drinkable water from a city water hand pump," reports Tyler O. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Surface water throughout the region may be unsafe even with filtration. A camper warns, "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."
Cell service variability: Coverage depends entirely on elevation. "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," notes Steve C.
Campsite scarcity on weekends: Popular sites fill quickly Friday-Sunday. "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," warns Lucille W.
Trail conditions after rain: "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits," advises Shane about Wildcat Hollow, while Eric S. describes trails as "a cesspool of mud in too many places esp on the stretch between the trailhead and the loop."
Tips for camping with families
First-time backpacking: Shorter loops offer manageable introduction to overnight hiking. "Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," recommends Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow.
Nearby amenities: Basic supplies remain accessible from primitive sites. "Gas stations, fast food, and dollar general are all within 10 mins," notes Tyler O. about the Kinderhook area.
Dead tree hazards: Kinderhook Horse Trail provides safer options than deep forest camping. "There were lots of dead trees/widowmakers, so be careful where you pitch your tent," warns Leon H. about forest areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited small RV options: Only certain trailheads accommodate compact campers. "Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," explains Joe B. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Overnight parking restrictions: "Nice small trailhead area. Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Can camp here in certain spots. Not much area to camp," advises Joe B., noting limitations for vehicle-based camping.
Road access challenges: Access roads may present difficulties regardless of vehicle size. "The road to it is difficult also (as are most with dispersed camping)," reports Jade G.
