The Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry recently listed over 650 campsites available for reservations on ReserveAmerica.com! Having campsites available for reservation will help the bureau to meet public demand and the modern-day expectation for the convenience and improved availability and information on state forest camping.
The bureau has seen an increasing interest in state forest camping opportunities, and the new reservation option will help those traveling to better plan their trips and find experiences along the way. Campers can now view real time campsite availability and campsite information, location, and photos.
How far in advance can I make a reservation?
Campsites will be available for reservation up to 11 months in advance, up to noon the day of arrival.
Why is the state forest camping experience so unique?
Pennsylvania’s vast state forest system provides camping opportunities in more remote and wild locations than state parks and the campsites are often distanced from other sites for added seclusion. There are minimal to no amenities which help maintain the wild character of the surrounding lands. This primitive recreation experience is something that can only be found in areas of large forested landscapes and is sought for by many experienced campers and those who truly want to “get away from it all”.
What type of sites are available?
Roadside campsites
Roadside campsites are singular, remote sites located along dirt and gravel state forest roads. They may be pull offs or have a short driveway. These sites allow for overnight camping in or near a vehicle where it can continue to be used for storage or transportation. Depending on layout, the sites may accommodate various types of equipment including tents, small RVs, or trailers.
These campsites are ideal for families or individuals who desire to have more equipment available than can be carried while primitive backpack camping. A roadside campsite is a great base camp to visit various points of interest throughout a state forest or participate in several different forms of recreation. The sites receive minimal maintenance and are truly a remote experience.
Roadside hike-in campsites
Roadside hike-in campsites are singular, remote sites with designated parking along a dirt and gravel state forest road and a defined trail or gated road that is followed to the campsite. Hike-in lengths vary, and the sites are tent only. These campsites offer more privacy than most roadside campsites and an experience somewhat similar to backpacking but with closer access to a vehicle.
State forest equestrian campsites
State forest equestrian campsites are situated in a campground setting and usually laid out for and include amenities specifically for horses. These may include things such as hitching posts and manure pits. Additionally, riding opportunities are found nearby. Most of these campgrounds are for equestrian use only but some may allow other campers during the off season.
State forest rustic campsites
Unlike roadside campsites, state forest rustic campsites are within a campground setting with a concentration of other sites nearby. These are ideal for those who want a rustic experience but still be near to other campers. They receive regular maintenance and usually include a pit latrine or vault toilet but no other amenities. They often are centrally located to other excellent recreation opportunities.
Trailside campsites
Trailside campsites are situated along various kinds of state forest trails such as rail trails, hiking trails, or water trails and can be bike-in, boat-in, and/or hike-in. Vehicle access is not nearby. They receive varying degrees of maintenance and are an excellent way to traverse and access interior portions of large tracts of state forest land.
State forest rustic organized group tenting areas
State forest rustic organized group tenting areas accommodate a larger number of campers than other typical state forest campsites. They are intended for organized groups which have a formal organization to coordinate and carry out its activities, as well as appointed or elected leadership and the holding of periodic meetings. These include youth groups which have a majority of its members under age 18 and are affiliated with an on-going organization like school, youth and church groups. An organized adult group has a majority of its members above 18 years of age and is affiliated with an organization such as the Rotary Club or the Lions Club. These sites are not open for use by other individuals or informal groups.