Where the Appalachian Trail splits from its bypass route, this primitive campground sits on Pennsylvania Game Commission land within State Game Lands 217. The small grassy site provides free tent camping for hikers, positioned just before reaching the nearby AT shelter for northbound travelers. A fire ring marks the spot, though vegetation has grown up around the less-developed area compared to more heavily used trail sites.
The hike-in access keeps vehicle traffic away, while basic amenities include drinking water and campfire permissions. Cell service reaches the location. George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter lies a tenth of a mile east for hikers wanting shelter proximity without the crowds. This works best for backpackers seeking a quieter alternative to busier campsites near Palmerton while staying close to trail infrastructure.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundAT/Bypass Trail Split Primitive Campground is located in Pennsylvania
Coordinates
40.782292 N
75.619217 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/29/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 12/11/25- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/29/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 12/11/25
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
Drive Time
- 24 min from Allentown, PA
- 48 min from Scranton, PA
- 51 min from Reading, PA
- 1 hr 9 min from Lebanon, PA
