Dispersed camping options near Waverly, West Virginia concentrate in the Wayne National Forest across the Ohio border, with primitive sites requiring 30-60 minutes of travel time. The area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 650-1,100 feet and mixed hardwood forests. During spring, camping areas often experience saturated ground conditions, particularly in valley locations and after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking year-round: At Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead, hiking trails remain open throughout winter when OHV trails close. "Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season," notes a visitor who camped during the winter months.
Boulder climbing: Near Witch's Peak, visitors can explore unique rock formations. "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," according to one camper who discovered this lesser-known spot.
Spring wildflower viewing: Many forest areas showcase seasonal flora displays. "I recommend visiting Wildcat hollow in the springtime as the forest floor will be carpeted with beautiful wildflowers," advises a regular visitor who appreciates the natural cycles of the region.
What campers like
Small private campsites: Wildcat Hollow Hiking Trail Dispersed offers natural seclusion on its trail loops. "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," shares one backpacker who found numerous options.
Quick overnight stops: Trailheads provide convenient options for short 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," reports a camper who valued the simplicity.
Off-grid experience: Monday Creek OHV Dispersed appeals to those seeking minimal infrastructure. "My kinda place," writes one camper who appreciated the primitive, off-the-grid nature of the area without further explanation.
What you should know
Seasonal trailhead popularity: Weekends bring higher visitor numbers to popular areas. "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," notes a camper at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead.
Water quality concerns: Surface water sources throughout the area require caution. "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 a Wildcat Hollow visitor.
Cell service variability: Reception depends on terrain position. "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 backpacker who tracked connectivity during their trip.
Tips for camping with families
Consider short loops: New Straitsville Trailhead provides basic accommodations suitable for family stays. "Overall not a bad spot for a one night travel spot but I could see it being more congested between April-December," advises a camper, noting the OHV permitted season impacts visitation.
Pack extra footwear: Muddy conditions affect many trails in the region after rain. "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 and will necessitate doing the entire loop. If it has rained recently then expect numerous mudpits."
Use established sites: Many areas have preexisting clearings with fire rings. "The sites themselves are just semi-cleared areas with stone fire rings so it is totally primitive camping," explains a Wildcat Hollow camper who found the minimal setup adequate for their needs.
Tips from RVers
Small rigs only: Kinderhook Horse Trail accommodates limited vehicle sizes. "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," advises a visitor who assessed the space constraints.
Scout parking areas: Many trailheads have limited space for larger vehicles. "Camped at the west side of the vaulted toilet lot. Arrived about 5 PM and all 3 camping spots were empty," reports a camper at Monday Creek OHV who secured a spot by timing their arrival strategically.
Consider seasonal closures: Winter affects facility availability. "Pit toilet closed for winter. Probably busy on weekends during the season," notes a Dorr-Run visitor, highlighting how seasonal changes impact amenities at rustic camping areas near Waverly.
