Wayne National Forest

Wayne National Forest spans nearly 242,000 acres across southeastern Ohio, offering a mix of hiking trails, dispersed camping, and fishing opportunities across a working national forest. The landscape is forested and rolling, typical of Ohio's Appalachian region, with streams and wetlands scattered throughout. You'll find trails for day hikes and backpacking, quiet spots for dispersed camping on public land, and sections open to hunting during the appropriate seasons. Scenic driving is viable on forest roads, and fishing is available in streams and small water features across the forest.

Visit between late spring and early fall for the most reliable weather and trail access. Winter is passable but conditions can be unpredictable. The forest is accessed via Ohio routes and local roads; there are no major highways running through it, so plan your route in advance. As a working national forest, some areas may have timber activity or seasonal closures, so check with the Forest Service before heading out.