Wildcat Hollow Boondocking In Glouster, OH – Complete Guide for Off-Grid Camping

by John Rodgers / Thursday, June 12, 2025 / Published in Ohio Free, Free Camping

Wildcat Hollow Boondocking In Glouster, OH
Complete Guide for Off-Grid Camping

ADDRESS
Glouster, OH GPS: 39.57285, -82.032809 Elevation: 733′
MANAGEMENT
Public – Forest Service (Official) This is a FREE campsite.

Previous Reviews:

Wildcat Hollow Boondocking: There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Lots of campsites near trail head for this backpacking trail.

About This Location

If you’re itching for a quiet place to camp without crowds or fees, Wildcat Hollow boondocking area in Glouster, Ohio, is worth a look. It’s got those free, dispersed camping spots where you can set up far from the usual bustle.

Wildcat Hollow boondocking area drops you right into a natural setting, so you get solitude, hiking, and easy trail access—no campsite payment required. The area sits close to a few hiking routes, including this well-loved 15.5-mile trail winding through Wayne National Forest.

You can wander the forest, then return to a peaceful spot with your tent or rig. There’s no need for permits or fees, making trip planning refreshingly simple.

If you want to ditch the city and just chill outdoors with almost no restrictions, this spot is kind of perfect. You’ll get easy access to nature, solid hiking options, and the kind of quiet a lot of boondockers crave.

Wildcat Hollow Boondocking In Glouster, OH

Thinking about boondocking near Glouster? Wildcat Hollow boondocking area’s a solid pick. Free camping, no hookups, no frills—just you and the woods.

You’ll find it tucked inside Wayne National Forest. Expect a basic campsite, surrounded by trees and, honestly, not much else.

No fees, no permits—just show up and pick your spot. There’s a good amount of peace and quiet, whether you’re parking your rig or pitching a tent.

But heads up: there aren’t any restrooms or water sources. You’ll need to bring your own water and whatever else you’ll need.

Wildcat Hollow Trail is right there—a 15.5-mile loop that’s pretty straightforward to follow. Hikers and backpackers seem to love it, and it’s a nice way to stretch your legs before or after camping.

Please, follow Leave No Trace. Pack out your trash, don’t mess with the plants or animals, and help keep this place as chill as you found it.

Directions

To get to Wildcat Hollow Boondocking near Glouster, OH, start heading toward the Athens District of Wayne National Forest. It’s not far from Burr Oak State Park, which makes a handy landmark.

From Glouster, drive south on State Route 13 for about three miles. Watch for signs to Burr Oak State Park or look for the forest service roads that lead into Wayne.

Once you’re on the forest roads, follow the dirt and gravel tracks marked for Wildcat Hollow boondocking area. Some stretches get narrow and bumpy, so it’s smart to take it slow.

A GPS or a good old-fashioned map will help you find the trailhead near Wildcat Hollow boondocking area. Lots of folks use trail maps showing both the short and long loops to get their bearings.

Coming from farther away? US-50 is the closest major highway. From there, it’s local roads south to Glouster, then into the forest.

A few tips worth remembering:

Cell service is spotty, so download your maps before you arrive.
It helps to mark your route or print out the trailhead info.
Parking near Wildcat Hollow boondocking area is limited—if you want a spot, try to get there early.

Vehicle Access And Pricing

You can get to Wildcat Hollow Boondocking by heading to the designated parking areas near the trailhead.

The main access point is the Wildcat Hollow Trailhead, which sits just north of Burr Oak State Park in Glouster, OH.

Roads leading up to the trailhead are usually in good enough shape for most cars and small trucks.

After you park, you’ll have to walk or hike in to reach the camping spots.

These sites are strictly walk-in and backcountry, so you can’t drive past the parking area.

It’s a short trek from your car to wherever you want to set up camp.

There’s no fee or permit needed for camping or hiking at Wildcat Hollow boondocking area.

You can just show up, which is honestly kind of refreshing if you’re watching your budget.

If you’re thinking about bringing a larger vehicle or an RV, it’s smart to check road conditions first.

Some of those forest roads can get pretty narrow or rough, and off-highway vehicles aren’t allowed on Wildcat Hollow boondocking area’s singletrack hiking trails.

Feature	Details
Access Point	Wildcat Hollow Trailhead
Vehicle Type	Cars, small trucks only
Camping Access	Walk-in, hike-in sites only
Fees	None
Permits	Not required
Road Conditions	Generally maintained roads