Loyalsock State Forest, near Williamsport, Pennsylvania, is a rugged camping area that offers a back-to-nature experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. With sites that are essentially pull-offs along a less-traveled road, it’s a straightforward option for tent and RV camping, though you’ll need a permit to set up camp.

The area is known for its primitive charm, featuring fire rings at each site but lacking amenities like drinking water and restrooms. Visitors have noted the proximity to the Loyalsock Creek and the Old Loggers Path, which provide excellent hiking opportunities and a chance to enjoy some fishing and swimming at nearby spots like Haystacks. As one camper mentioned, “It is close to the Loyalsock Creek and the Loyalsock trail runs nearby, so there are good hiking opportunities.”

While some campers have faced challenges with muddy conditions, especially after rain, many appreciate the natural beauty and the chance to connect with the outdoors. The scenery includes a mix of trees and trails, making it a picturesque setting for those who enjoy a more rustic camping experience. Just remember to come prepared, as the lack of facilities means you’ll need to bring your own supplies.

Primitive backpack camping is permitted while hiking along state forest trails.

Backpack campers are not required to obtain a camping permit if they stay no more than one night at a location.

All roadside campers, horse campers, and backpack campers staying in a designated campsite or more than one night at a location, are required to obtain a camping permit from the Resource Management Center or the Hillsgrove Maintenance Station.
http://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=1743198&DocName=CampingPolicy161121.pdf

The PA State Forest Campsite Map shows locations and additional details for designated campsites: https://maps.dcnr.pa.gov/bof/camping/

Camping in a group of 10 persons or more requires a letter of authorization from the district forester in addition to a camping permit.

Camping is prohibited along certain sections of roads and some other areas posted as closed to camping.

Loyalsock State Forest

Join the fun near Shunk. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Shunk is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Shunk, PA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Shunk

The Best Camping Near Shunk, Pennsylvania

An interesting experience.  All it takes is a permit and you can camp at a number of sites with fire rings.  It is close to the Loyalsock Creek and the Loyalsock trail runs nearby so there are good hiking opportunities.  The swimming and fishing at Haystacks is also fun and only a short hike.

Primitive sites accessible for car camping

Loyalsock SF is amazing with tons of FREE sites (just need a permit from the office). This site was right off the road and close to a cabin, but otherwise very pleasant. Comes with a fire ring and that’s it. No water source nearby, but you are parking right where you camp. Old Loggers Path is close by and an amazing hiking trail. If you can, email them and ask for Rich the ranger. He loves his job and will be incredibly helpful in planning your trip. 

Site 36

The camping site was very hard to access with my vehicle. Many people have clearly gotten stuck here as there were lots of tire ruts in the dirt. 

As soon as I arrived I blew a tire on my Jeep Grand Cherokee (with brand new all terrain tires) due to the state of the ground, even being super careful. 

So I didn’t get to stay long, since it looked as if it might rain and I didn’t want to get stuck with a spare on the truck. 

I would recommend staying elsewhere if you have the option, as the site itself didn’t seem to be well maintained. 

Disappointing 

The sites are just pull offs along the road. the road isn't heavily traveled so it's not too bad. The problem was the night that I stayed there it had been raining non stop for several day and the whole campsite. was several inches of mud. there wasn't any grassy areas to park near. All in all not a bad place in dry conditions. it was reported to be free with a permit but the permit was about $15

Photos of Loyalsock State Forest

Real photos from real campers