Hanging Rock OHV Boondocking In Ironton, OH
Essential Guide and Tips for Off-Grid Camping
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Park Road 105 Ironton, OH GPS: 38.5807, -82.724234 |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (Official) Possible Permit for Riding – Double Check First This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Hanging Rock OHV Boondocking: ATV area and primitive camping. Camping is allowed at the trailheads for the ATV trails from April 14-December 14th. Camping is also frequently done around the Hanging Rock ponds by fisherman and during hunting seasons by all the hunters that use the area.
The Hanging Rock area of the Wayne National Forest provides some excellent opportunities for riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off highway motorcycles (OHMs). This System has 26 miles of trail available for off-road vehicle, hiking, and mountain bike use.
These trails wind through an area strip-mined in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Much of the upland area was badly scarred, and some areas are left with steep slopes providing challenging trails to riders. The area is also known for its fishing ponds, 51 of which are available for fishing. The ponds which are scattered along the ATV trail, lend a picturesque backdrop to an ATV ride.
About This Location
If you’re after a spot to get your OHV fix and want to skip campground fees, Hanging Rock OHV boondocking area in Ironton, Ohio, is worth checking out. This place is tucked inside Wayne National Forest and features about 26 miles of trail built just for OHV use.
You can camp for free right at the trailhead, which is super handy if you want to roll out of bed and hit the trails.
The landscape here is a jumble of wooded hills and rocky bits, so the riding never gets boring. Primitive camping means you’ll need to show up ready—think basic supplies and a willingness to rough it.
But honestly, if you want to hike a little or poke around local landmarks, it’s a solid base. It’s not fancy, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want for an OHV weekend.
Hanging Rock OHV Boondocking In Ironton, OH
If OHV riding is your thing, Hanging Rock near Ironton is a pretty good bet for boondocking. You can pitch your tent in primitive areas close to the trailhead, but don’t expect hookups or frills.
You’ll need to bring your own water, food, and whatever else keeps you comfortable out there.
The trails—about 26 miles in total—are open to motorcycles, ATVs, and off-road vehicles under 50 inches wide. They twist through the woods and up and down some surprisingly steep hills.
You do need a permit to ride, which is kind of a pain because you can’t buy it at the trailhead. You’ll have to grab one ahead of time, either online, at local vendors, or at the Wayne National Forest district offices.
Camping at Hanging Rock OHV boondocking area is informal and dispersed. There are a few walk-in sites near the start of the trails, but don’t look for bathrooms or showers.
Here’s the quick rundown:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Camping | Primitive, walk-in sites available |
| Trail Length | 26 miles of OHV trails |
| Vehicle Width Limit | 50 inches max |
| Permit to Ride | Required, buy before arrival |
| Facilities | None on-site, self-sufficient camping |
Expect things to be quiet and a little barebones. Hanging Rock can get busy on weekends, so if you value solitude, maybe aim for a weekday.
Directions
To get to Hanging Rock OHV Boondocking in Ironton, Ohio, you’ll start on State Highway 650. That connects to U.S. Highway 52, which is the main drag through the area.
From U.S. Highway 52, head north on State Highway 650 for about 3/4 of a mile. Keep an eye out for Forest Road 105—that’s your turn.
Once you’re on Forest Road 105, you’ll find the trailheads and camping spots.
Parking is right at the trailheads along Forest Road 105. It’s all marked, so you shouldn’t have much trouble at Hanging Rock OHV boondocking area.
Here’s a quick step-by-step:
- Take U.S. Highway 52 to State Highway 650
- Drive north on State Highway 650 for 0.75 miles
- Turn onto Forest Road 105
- Follow Forest Road 105 to the OHV trailheads and boondocking areas
Make sure your vehicle can handle some rough patches, since forest roads aren’t always smooth sailing. Signs are posted once you hit Forest Road 105, so you shouldn’t get too lost.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
You’ll find the Hanging Rock OHV boondocking area off Forest Service Road 105, not far from Ironton, Ohio. The road’s mostly gravel, so expect a bit of a bumpy ride.
That road leads you straight to the trail system and some primitive camping sites. If you’re hunting for more solitude, a few spur roads branch off FS Road 105 and take you to dispersed camping spots.
The OHV trail system covers about 26 miles, mainly set up for ATVs and dirt bikes. Trails weave through rugged ground—remnants of old strip mines—so you’ll want to be ready for some seriously uneven surfaces.
There’s no fee to ride or camp at the primitive sites near the trailhead. You don’t need a permit for day use or for camping overnight, which is honestly kind of rare these days. Some conflicting information here, so, it’s smart to check local rules and, please, respect Leave No Trace guidelines.
Vehicle requirements:
- Only street-legal off-road vehicles or OHVs are allowed.
- Stick to the marked trails and roads.
- If you’re driving something big, heads up: narrow and rough paths can get tricky.
Don’t expect developed campsites or any kind of hookups out here at Hanging Rock OHV boondocking area. Bring everything you’ll need and be ready to pack out your trash.
If you’re after a wild, no-cost boondocking spot right by the trails, this place is pretty hard to beat.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Near Water Pets Welcome Restrooms |
RV Parking Tent Camping OHV Biking Boating Fishing Wildlife Viewing |