Dispersed camping near Washington, West Virginia offers primitive sites throughout Wayne National Forest with varying accessibility and terrain challenges. Most locations require preparation for basic conditions with limited facilities. The forest contains several trailheads where camping is permitted on a first-come, first-served basis, primarily from spring through fall when weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Hiking backcountry trails: Wildcat Hollow features both short and long loop options for hikers seeking free camping near Washington, West Virginia. "I camp here allllll the time. Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," notes Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail.
Trail riding: Kinderhook Horse Trail provides designated paths for equestrians. "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Can camp here in certain spots," reports Joe B. about Kinderhook Horse Trail, adding that the "trails seem to be well maintained."
Rock exploring: Steeper terrain rewards hikers with unique geological features. "The climb is totally worth it though. Some amazing rock out croppings and views up there! There are several boulder routes as well," explains Lucille W. about Witch's Peak, noting "at the end of the short trail is a cool rock shelter!"
What campers like
Seasonal wildflower displays: Spring brings notable plant life to the forest floor. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," suggests Lucille W., highlighting a natural phenomenon many visitors appreciate.
Privacy options: Deeper hiking rewards with solitude on less crowded trails. Steve C. reports, "There are a couple of campsites at the trailhead and quite a few all along the trail. 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."
Quick overnight accessibility: For those seeking free dispersed camping near Washington, West Virginia without extensive hiking, Monday Creek OHV Dispersed offers convenient options. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," notes Kevin C., who found it "a great stop over location."
What you should know
Cell service varies by elevation: Communication capability fluctuates throughout the forest. "With att had 2 to 3 bars cell service," reports Joe B. about Kinderhook, while Steve C. notes that at Wildcat Hollow "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."
Trail conditions deteriorate after rain: Multiple campsites experience significant mud issues. Shane comments, "If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits," while other reviews consistently mention trail erosion problems during wet periods.
Water sources unreliable: Pack all necessary water rather than depending on filtering from streams. "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," warns Steve C. about Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Tips for camping with families
Off-season weekdays offer more space: Finding available sites improves significantly during certain times. Taylor P. observed at Dorr-Run, "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."
Short loop options for beginners: Families new to backpacking can find manageable trails. "Secluded spot and an easy yet pretty trail. Perfect place for a first time backpacking trek," suggests Lucille W. about Wildcat Hollow's shorter loop option.
Site selection considerations: Look for established clearings with existing fire rings. Jason M. notes, "There are several primitive campsites along the trail with nothing more than a stone fire ring and a clearing, so pack in everything you need including water."
Tips from RVers
Limited spaces for larger vehicles: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller rigs. Joe B. describes Kinderhook Horse Trail as "definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group."
Seasonal facility closures: Winter camping comes with additional limitations. Doug H. reports about New Straitsville Trailhead, "OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter."
Roadside alternatives: When designated areas fill, secondary options exist. Mic B. notes, "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)," while Taylor P. adds, "There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used."
