Williams Campground, located near the town of Logan in southeastern Ohio, is within the boundaries of the Wayne National Forest. This protected area is known for its hiking and ATV trails, and staying at this particular campground puts you close to all the off-road action. At the same time, you are only 10 miles or a 20-minute drive from the shops, restaurants and services in the center of Logan.
Williams Campground welcomes tent campers as well as those in RVs. Most sites are dry camping, meaning no hookups. A few offer electrical outlets. Water, showers and restrooms are available. The campground sells permits for the ATV trails in the Wayne National Park at their on-site sundry store. The Monday Creek Trails may be accessed directly from the campground. Williams Campground also offers day parking and permits for those wanting to ride the trails but don't want to camp. The campground is open from mid-April until mid-December, as are the trails.
Located in the Appalachian foothills, the quarter million acres that make up the Wayne National Forest have been under the care of the United States Forrest Service since 1935. It is a haven for fishermen, hunters, campers and those who pursue wildlife with a camera rather than a rifle. Over 300 miles of trails in three separate systems crisscross the forest lands. They are suitable for ATV, or all-terrain vehicle, use, hiking, horseback riding or getting a workout on your mountain bike. Hiking is allowed year-round, but for the rest of these activities the trail is open from April 14 until December 15.
The Monday Creek trail system is just north of Nelsonville and has direct access from Williams Campground. This system has roughly 75 miles of trails designated for off-road use. Though you may see mountain bikers and hikers on the trails, the loops, natural obstacles and terrain changes make them more suitable for ATVs. Even if you are camping at Williams Campground, you may want to spend a night on the trail. There are eight sites, first come, first served. These are tent only, no services. If you want to build a fire, you must ring it with rocks and douse it thoroughly before leaving camp. If a fire ban is in effect, that information will be posted on a bulletin board at the campsites. All food, water and supplies must be carried in, and out, on your ATV.
All ATV riders must purchase a Wayne National Forest trail permit. Riders 16 and older must also have a valid state driver's license. Drivers younger than 16 only need the permit but must ride with an adult 18 or over who does have the required state license. All ATV's may be no wider than 50 inches. The ATV must have a valid registration and/or license. If you are visiting from out of state, check and see if you will have to reregister before riding in the park. Ohio has a reciprocity licensing agreement with some states, but not others. Riders must stay on the designated trails.
